Wilderness of the Heart


Young Adult - Adventure
290 Pages
Reviewed on 10/10/2023
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite

Wilderness of the Heart by Jason Bergeron is a captivating and immersive adventure tale set in the early 19th century. A young Swedish boy named Jacob embarks on a remarkable journey of survival, self-discovery, and cultural transformation. At the tender age of nine, Jacob's life takes a tragic turn when he loses his father and finds himself alone in the bustling streets of London. However, fate leads him to a band of young pickpockets, and Jacob's journey truly begins. Through adversity and companionship, Jacob learns to navigate the world of thievery and gains proficiency in the English language. The narrative takes a pivotal turn when Jacob is offered a chance to escape his life of crime and join an expedition to North America sponsored by Lord Selkirk. This marks the beginning of his transformation from a street-smart Londoner to a resourceful young man with a deep connection to the wilderness. Jacob's adventures continue as he forges meaningful relationships with the Ojibwe people, learning their customs, language, and way of life. His journey of self-discovery is beautifully portrayed as he grapples with a sense of belonging and identity, torn between his past and his newfound life in the wilderness.

Wilderness of the Heart is a gripping story that explores themes of identity, resilience, and the profound impact of human connection. Jason Bergeron's storytelling prowess shines in this engrossing tale that transports readers to a time and place filled with danger, wonder, and the beauty of the untamed wilderness. Bergeron skillfully weaves together historical elements, vivid descriptions of the North American wilderness, and a compelling coming-of-age story. The characters, particularly Jacob, are well-developed and relatable, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in his transformation and the challenges he faces. As the story unfolds, it seamlessly blends personal growth with larger historical events, adding depth and richness to the narrative. Wilderness of the Heart explores themes of identity, resilience, and the profound impact of human connection.