Be a Survivor (Go Wild)

Chris Oxlade is an experienced author of educational books for children. He has written more than two hundred books on science, technology, sports, and hobbies, including many activity and project books. He lives in England.

"In one of four titles launching the Go Wild series of guidebooks for outdoor activities, readers learn how to keep themselves safe in the wild. Illustrated step-by-step directions walk readers through how to make an igloo, carve a walking stick, build a slingshot, and more. A spread devoted to foraging for food lists a handful of berries and plants that are safe for consumption, while ideas for finding water include placing plastic bags in trees, wrapping towels around one's legs to collect dew, and even obtaining water from a frog ('only in a real emergency!'). Smiling woodland animals offer quips and tips ('Always release fish that you don't need for survival'), while cartoon children demonstrate some of the techniques discussed. It's a solid introduction to some basic, but potentially crucial, wilderness safety information. Simultaneously available: Be an Adventurer, Be an Explorer, and Be a Tracker. "―Publishers Weekly

"This adorable collection of outdoorsy tips and projects―10 topics per volume―teach readers how to use a compass, make an igloo, and build a wormery. Cartoon illustrations and diagrams provide good details for following instructions and are especially helpful when it comes to tricky subjects like knot tying or making a homemade fishing rod. A peanut gallery of irreverent animals offers comic commentary from the margins. VERDICT: These clever books will inspire projects large and small."―School Library Journal, Series Made Simple

"This entry and a companion in the Go Wild series encourage kids to get out in nature and give them some of the skills that will help them survive and enjoy their journeys. This slim, colorful volume teaches skills vital in emergencies (or maybe just on the next camping trip): building a shelter, making fire (with matches, flint and steel, and a fire drill), knife safety, getting safe drinking water, catching food (fishing, making and using a slingshot―but only if you are truly starving), foraging for food, cooking, and calling for help with fire signals, mirrors, or ground signals. Easy-to-follow numbered steps and clear cartoon illustrations make it easy for kids to pick up and then try out their outdoor skills, and most of the recommended supplies are either common or cheaply obtained. The simultaneously publishing Be an Explorer teaches kids navigational skills―map, compass, finding your way without either, and also in fog, making a map, and hunting for geocached treasure―and how to identify rock types and some common rocks, find fossils and shells, predict weather based on clouds and other clues, avoid bad weather, and observe the night sky―the phases of the moon and some constellations. Both books emphasize safety and that adults should be involved in helping kids learn and practice the skills presented. Humorous cartoon animals throughout and a closing spread of factoids round out the fun. Valuable skills and tips for safely enjoying the great outdoors wrapped in an easy-to-read, fun guide."―Kirkus Reviews