Road Trip
Author: Gary and Jim Paulsen
Publisher: Wendy Lamb Books
Publication Date:
Pages: 128
Source: Audiobook for review from publisher
Read By: Mike Chamberlain with John H. Mayer
Audiobook Publisher: Listening Library
Length: 2 hours, 48 minutes
About the Book: Dad and Ben haven’t been getting along recently and Dad hopes a road trip to rescue a border collie will help them reconnect. But Ben is on to Dad’s plan and invites Ben’s thuggish buddy, Theo. The family dog, Atticus, comes along too and the story is told by Ben and Atticus. When their truck breaks down, they commandeer an old school bus, along with its mechanic, Gus. Next, they pick up Mia, a waitress escaping a tense situation. Only sharp-eyed Atticus realizes that Theo is on the run—and someone is following them.
My Thoughts: When I had the opportunity to review this book I jumped at the chance. It’s Gary freaking Paulsen. He is like a god at the middle school library. My students (and teachers!) love him! I was also interested in reading a book written with his son (who is a sculptor and hasn’t previously worked on a book with his father.)
Road Trip was a quick yet delightful read. On the surface this is the story of a trip to rescue a puppy. It’s really the story of a father and son learning to see each other in a new light. It’s also a story of friendship and second chances. I loved the way the cast of characters grew as Ben and his dad picked people up along the way. Each new character had their own story that Ben (and the reader) pieces together as the group moves on. It was such fun to get to know each character better and to see how they all fit together.
It was interesting to get everyone’s story from Ben’s point of view. I loved the pictures he took along the way and what each one means to him. I also thought the interactions between Ben and his dad were great. It’s clear they love one another but Ben’s dad also drives him a bit batty. Very authentic! As a bonus, Atticus, the family dog,, occasionally breaks in and tells the story from his point of view. He is much more objective and observant than Ben. I loved his commentary on the whole story.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and it was just what I needed! I had been listening to two longer audiobooks so a nice short story was perfect. Mike Chamberlain did a great job as Ben. However, I think John H. Mayer as the old border collie Atticus was my favorite! He only breaks into the story now and then but I loved his expression and insight. It felt like a treat!
Road Trip is a must for any middle school library. I can’t wait to get a hardcopy on my shelves. My students are going to love it.
Leave a Reply