Franklin, Kristine L. Lone Wolf. Candlewick Press, 1997. ISBN 1564029352. $17.00. 220 pp. B+ 4-8 FI Reviewed by Tom Wright Perry Dubois is alone in Minnesota's north woods. This isn't survival literature in the traditional sense, but Perry finds himself isolated, nonetheless. Perry's sister was killed in an auto accident when he was eight, and his parents' marriage couldn't survive the emotional strain. His father takes Perry north and they live deep in the woods. No neighbors, no school (Perry is home schooled), and no friends. The subject matter here is not new. There seems to be a plethora of “divorce” and “emotional baggage” books around as of late. However, the writing style is easy and readable and the characters are believable. Not surprisingly, Perry has developed a hard shell, and a character is introduced that gets through it, namely Willow Pestalozzi. She is Perry's polar opposite. Where Perry is reserved and reticent, Willow is gregarious and impetuous. Predictably, they form a bond and, through this friendship, Perry begins to deal with emotions that have long been buried. This book doesn't surprise, but it is warm and well written. Willow's character is charming and the reader feels Perry's awkwardness in relating socially once again.There are strong and warm family scenes at the Pestalozzis that affect Perry and his father. The reader sees a gradual reconsideration on the part of the father, and attempts are made to reconnect Perry with his mother.
