WANDERING WILD

American teen movie star Zander Rune has an image problem, and it’s endangering his career.

Zander’s agent has a plan: Zander will go on a wilderness survival reality show with one lucky fan. Charlie Hart, who’s from a small Australian town, is facing her own struggles over a personal tragedy, her best friend Ember’s leukemia, and uncertainty about her future now she’s finished high school. Ember wins the contest, but her doctor advises her against going on the show. So Charlie—whose crush on Zander ended the day he was charged with a DUI—reluctantly agrees to go in Ember’s place: Her participation will give an infatuated Ember the chance to meet Zander before they embark. As the four-day trek through Australia’s Blue Mountains begins, Charlie’s animosity toward Zander is clear—although she won’t explain why, leaving him resigned to just getting through the challenge. But when the pair is thrust into increasingly dangerous situations, their feelings shift. White-presenting Zander and Charlie skydive, rappel, hike—and deal with lots of emotions. The juxtaposition of the wilderness challenges against the internal turmoil they’re each working through will keep readers engaged. The dual narration allows access to both leads’ perspectives and emotional journeys, supporting deeper storytelling. Readers will enjoy watching the duo learn and yearn as they navigate the mountains, forests, and streams.

An entertaining mix of endearing characters, strong feelings, and pulse-pounding adventure.