Off the Map

This action-packed chapter book follows Marlo and Amos, two former best friends whose relationship has recently fractured. When their parents surprise them with a joint wilderness canoe trip in Alaska, the tension is palpable. However, their squabbling leads them to take a wrong turn, separating them from the adults and sending them hurtling towards a waterfall. Lost and alone with only their dog, they must confront their unresolved anger and learn to rely on each other to navigate the harsh wilderness and find their way home. The story explores themes of friendship, trust, survival, and overcoming personal conflict, making it ideal for readers aged 8-12 who enjoy adventure stories with emotional depth.

From Meika Hashimoto, author of The Trail, comes an action-packed adventure about doing what it takes to survive--and realizing you can't do it alone. Amos and Marlo have always been best friends. From hiking trips to backyard camp-outs, from playing soccer at the park to sitting together at lunch, they did everything together -- until this past school year, when it all fell apart. Out of nowhere, Amos stopped talking to Marlo, and she has no idea why. Embarrassed and angry, Marlo distracts herself by looking forward to an end-of-year canoe trip with her mom. A special wilderness adventure, just the two of them (and their dog). But when they arrive at the trail-head in the Alaska wilderness... there's Amos! Their parents have surprised them with a trip together. Things couldn't be any worse. During the trip, Marlo and Amos do their best to avoid each other at all costs... until their parents pair them in a canoe together. When they start arguing, Amos and Marlo don't notice that the grownups' canoe has disappeared. They've taken a wrong turn -- and they're heading straight for a waterfall. Lost in the wilderness, can these two ex-best friends stop fighting long enough to find their way back to safety? Off the Map contains Meika's signature mix of outdoor adventure and loads of heart. It's about first crushes, friendship breakups, and learning to trust again. A perfect read for fans of Hatchet or Dan Gemeinhart.