38 pages 1 hour read

Gary Paulsen

The Voyage of the Frog

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1989

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Voyage of the Frog by Gary Paulsen, fourteen-year-old David Alspeth embarks on a solo voyage in the Pacific Ocean to fulfill his deceased uncle’s wish of scattering his ashes at sea. Unprepared for the journey, David faces storms, navigational challenges, and encounters with marine life, ultimately learning crucial survival skills and gaining a deeper sense of independence and maturity. The book addresses the themes of grief and loss.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Gary Paulsen’s The Voyage of the Frog is praised for its compelling narrative and realistic depiction of survival at sea, engaging readers with its detailed and gripping storytelling. However, some reviews mention the pacing can be slow at times, potentially losing the interest of less patient readers. Overall, the book is lauded for its vivid imagery and authentic emotional journey.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Voyage of the Frog?

A young reader, aged 10-14, who enjoys thrilling survival tales and the natural world will find The Voyage of the Frog by Gary Paulsen captivating. Fans of Hatchet and Island of the Blue Dolphins will appreciate the mix of adventure and introspection in this seafaring tale. Ideal for readers looking for engrossing, character-driven stories with a focus on resilience.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Book Details

Genre

Action / Adventure

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Children's Literature

Topics

Grief / Death

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Fear

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Emotions/Behavior: Grief