School Library Journal Review
Gr 5--8--Helen Skelton, a white English woman, has a list of impressive accomplishments, including an ultra marathon across the Namib Desert and a high-wire walk above London. The format of the text mimics a scrapbook. Each section describes the necessary training and gear, the highs and lows of Skelton's experiences, fascinating facts about the location or activity, and stories of other notable women adventurers. Most readers would find it difficult to emulate feats such as Skelton's kayak journey down the Amazon. However, there are appropriate reminders to seek adult supervision when participating in adventures as well as ideas for safe outdoor excitement a little closer to home. Kay's vivid illustrations and photographs bring Skelton's experiences to life and enhance the detailed descriptions on each page. The subtitle may be a bit misleading; the book is more of a memoir than a "how-to" manual. Still, many readers will be motivated by Skelton's experiences, and her perseverance and grit are inspiring. Readers gain a wealth of information about the landforms and wildlife of various regions on Earth, which may spark wanderlust. VERDICT A unique and invigorating addition to nonfiction collections for young adolescents.--Kelly Jahng, South Park Elem. Sch., IL
Kirkus Review
Skelton describes daring adventures she has had around the world and suggests ways for young people to challenge themselves. Biking to the South Pole, with kite skiing as a change of pace. Three marathons in 24 hours--in the desert. Solo kayaking 2,000 miles of the Amazon River in under 2 months. Walking a high wire between two abandoned city buildings. These are some of the truly wild adventures Skelton regales readers with in this tantalizing nonfiction title organized by environment. Skelton shares every detail of each trip: her physical, emotional, and mental preparation (or, occasionally, lack thereof); required gear; dangers; and the shocking and sometimes nasty things she had to endure to complete the challenges. Each chapter ends with "best parts" and "worst parts" of the adventure, two spreads full of related wild adventures for readers to try (with adult supervision), and a spread introducing fairly diverse accomplished women who have made history with their own adventures--with space for the reader to add her own photo. Readers will be on the edges of their seats as they follow each incredible story; Skelton's honesty about the roles of motivation, confidence, mentorship, and teamwork makes for an impressive lesson in the mechanics of mind over matter. The colorful spreads are well designed, with layouts that are easy to browse or read, stylized illustrations of diverse girls being active, and the occasional photograph of Skelton (who presents White) in action. Positively thrilling. (Nonfiction. 8-13) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
