Sam’s Desert Adventure, an exceptional book for young readers

Jonah Arizona’s Sam’s Desert Adventure, the latest publication for young readers from Moonlight Mesa Associates, Inc., is a sure delight for young readers in the 7-11 age range. Parents will be delighted with the mischievous and endearing Sam Davenport. that will remind them of their own childhood and their own children.

Set in Arizona, the story features a boy named Sam Davenport and his hilariously acquired mule, Bucket. Sam’s older sister Alice adds a charming twist to the story, and Sam’s elderly neighbor, Mr. Melby, helps develop this tale of youthful adventures and hard-learned lessons.

Despite Sam’s handsome appeal, he is an impulsive boy with a wild imagination who regularly forgets to consider the consequences of his youthful antics. Sam learns many difficult lessons the summer Bucket takes, but he has many exciting adventures in the process. Little by little he realizes that actions have consequences and that he must be responsible for those actions.

However, this story goes beyond Sam’s boyish demeanor, and the author shows a sensitivity and thoughtfulness in the ten-year-old that is deeply moving. Sam’s friendship with his elderly neighbor, Mr. Melby, is remarkable, and Sam’s compassion for his aging grandparents will touch the strings of his heart. Even your consideration of your sister’s feelings will make you smile.

In this story of childhood adventure, growth and learning, the other main character of the book, Bucket, should not be forgotten. Sam’s mule is unforgettable and perhaps even lovelier than Sam himself. The little mule, in his stubborn way, teaches Sam some of the most important lessons he learns. Sam’s attachment and love for his mule is tender and moving. Bucket fills a void in Sam’s life since he had to get away from his childhood friend, and the mule becomes Sam’s best friend and constant companion.

Sam’s Desert Adventure is full of humor, warmth, hard-won lessons, and extremely well-drawn characters. Sam’s parents are to be envied and admired for their patience and understanding in raising a child who will undoubtedly grow into a good young man despite the trials he sometimes presents to them. Although Sam’s parents are strict, there is never any doubt that their actions are motivated solely by their love for their son. The relationship Sam has with his parents is warm and stable, a model for all given the challenges Sam sometimes presents.

Highly recommended by MidWest Book Review Lead Chancellor Shirley Johnson, Sam’s Desert Adventure is a title that will be read over and over again by parents and young readers alike.