Hostile Territory

Gr 9 Up–Four teens—Josh, Derrick, Brooke, and Shannon—are stranded in the Alaskan wilderness alone after a catastrophic earthquake wipes out the rest of their camp. They are hundreds of miles from civilization with few supplies. Soon, they notice military aircraft flying over as they face postapocalyptic dangers. They must endure many perils and grow up quickly as they hike back home through the unknown. This fast-paced survival story seems all too real. The military and government involvement adds a twist, and details about the Alaskan setting make it apparent that the author has firsthand knowledge of the state. Greci’s experience as a field biology technician, trip leader for teens, and naturalist builds confidence that the depictions of Alaskan wilderness are accurate. The writing style and details bring this book to life; readers will feel like they are in Alaska alongside the characters. The challenges the teens undergo are well drawn and believable.