Navigating Early

Navigating Early 
by Clare Vanderpool

 The return home of Jack's father, a Navy captain, at the end of World War II should have been a time of joy and celebration. However, it is the sudden death of Jack's mother that brings home his father after four long years at war. Jack, while mourning the unexpected death of his mother, must also adjust to life with a father he has not seen in many years. His life is further disrupted when his father announces that Jack will be attending a boarding school in Maine, far away from his lifelong Kansas home.

While struggling to adjust to his new life at the Morton Hill Academy, Jack meets the unusual Early Auden. Fascinated by this unique boy, Jack decides to join Early in a journey during their school break. During their long quest along the Appalachian Trail they meet a wide assortment of characters, face dangerous situations, and learn more about each other and themselves.

Navigating Early is a wonderful story of friendship, family relationships, and self-discovery.   I enjoyed reading this book and following the journey of these two unlikely friends as they navigated to find what they were looking for.   I think this book has the potential to appeal to many types of readers.  Fans of realistic fiction that addresses friendships and family relationships will enjoy this book and the World War II setting will appeal to those who prefer historical fiction.  

Author's website:  http://www.clarevanderpool.com/home.html