WYATT THE WILD

“Wyatt the Worrier” tries to adapt during a summer in Montana.

Eleven-year-old Wyatt is an “indoor kind of guy.” He initially wasn’t thrilled about spending a month living off-grid in Montana with his dad, but he’s trying: “It’s so clear that he loves this place—I want to love it, too.” Wyatt and Dad have a good relationship, although they haven’t spoken as often since Dad left Indiana following the divorce. Wyatt looks forward to reconnecting through some quality time together, but their arrival at the Very-Very-Last-Chance Ranch reminds him that Dad now lives with his veterinarian fiancée, Iris; her 12-year-old son, Emmett; and rescued wild animals in various stages of rehabilitation. Despite the boys’ similar ages, outdoorsy Emmett is much taller and bolder, and Wyatt feels more out of place than ever—especially when he notices that “Dad and Emmett are a lot alike.” Wyatt’s bond with rescue wolf pup Goldie changes his perspective, and the boys come to acknowledge that strengths and weaknesses manifest in different ways. The main characters, who are cued white, are richly drawn, complex, and likable people. Wyatt’s wry, self-deprecating first-person narration offers insights into his growth as he comes to trust Emmett during a crisis involving Goldie, during which both boys find hidden reserves. Goldie, who longs for her pack, also narrates multiple chapters, although her sections feel less natural and distract from the arc of the human characters.

Perceptively blends outdoor adventure with an authentic search for belonging.