Book excerpt: A story of adventure, survival, friendship, and personal journey, A Wild Ride features thirteen-year-old Justin Attwood, who is sent to a summer wilderness camp at the insistence of his father. Although reluctant to attend the camp, Justin fears disappointing his dad and quickly befriends fellow camper Shawn Miller. With his new friend by his side, Justin begins to appreciate camp life, despite errors in judgment and resulting injuries and rivalries. With the assistance of Mike, the head camp instructor, the boys participate in the final challenge—the overnight river adventure. When the unexpected happens, Justin is forced to battle the mountain elements—and his own self-doubt—in his solo search for help. Along his journey, Justin also discovers the true meaning of perseverance and rising above. A Wild Ride is a fascinating coming-of-age story that will both resonate with and captivate teenaged boys, and those looking back to their youth at summer camp.