Jean Craighead George's On the Far Side of the Mountain captivates with its engaging tale and vivid nature descriptions. Readers appreciate the strong sibling relationship and the book's educational value. Some find the plot predictable and slower-paced compared to its predecessor, yet the overall reception is positive due to its environmental themes and character development.

Readers who enjoy On the Far Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George are likely fans of nature-centric adventures, as seen in novels like My Side of the Mountain and Hatchet. They appreciate stories of survival, self-discovery, and the strong bond between humans and the wilderness. Suitable for middle-grade to young adult audiences.

In On the Far Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George, Sam Gribley’s peaceful life in the Catskill Mountains is disrupted when a conservation officer confiscates his peregrine falcon, Frightful, and his sister Alice mysteriously disappears. Sam and his friend Bando follow Alice's trail, discovering she left clues leading to nearby waterfalls, and they uncover a scheme to sell illegal falcons.

Adventurous / Inspirational / Contemplative / Hopeful

- On the Far Side of the Mountain is a sequel to Jean Craighead George's Newbery Medal-winning book My Side of the Mountain, continuing the story of Sam Gribley's adventures.
- The author, Jean Craighead George, was inspired by her own experiences growing up in a family of naturalists, which is reflected in her vivid depictions of wildlife and the natural world.
- The story features real survival techniques and environmental details, showcasing George's commitment to ecological accuracy and education.

**Sam Gribley**  
The narrator and protagonist, Sam is a nature-loving teenager living in the Catskills, who has built a life using his resourcefulness and knowledge of the land. He is close with a peregrine falcon named Frightful and has a community of friends who support him.

**Alice Gribley**  
Sam's adventurous and inventive younger sister, who shares his love of nature and animals. Her mysterious mission adds intrigue to the story as she leaves clues for Sam.

**Bando**  
An English teacher and friend of Sam’s, who helps him with chores and spends holidays with him on the mountain. Bando enjoys nature but also appreciates the comforts of the modern world.

**Zella**  
Bando’s wife, who works as a lawyer and balances life between the primitive cabin and modern conveniences. Her perspective encourages the creation of conveniences in their natural setting.

**Miss Turner**  
The librarian from the town of Delhi, who influences Sam through her shared knowledge and presence during important projects. Her insights inspire key events in the story.

Jean Craighead George

Middle grade

Novel

Mountain

Fiction

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On the Far Side of the Mountain Background

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Chapters 1-3

On the Far Side of the Mountain Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

On the Far Side of the Mountain Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

On the Far Side of the Mountain Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-13

On the Far Side of the Mountain Chapters 11-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-15

On the Far Side of the Mountain Chapters 14-15 Summary & Analysis

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On the Far Side of the Mountain Character Analysis

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On the Far Side of the Mountain

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