Jess and the Runaway Grandpa

Darleen R. Golke is a high-school teacher-librarian in Winnipeg,
Manitoba.

Jess Baines and her mother, Naomi, plan to spend a “quality time”
long weekend in Banff. However, when 12-year-old Jess sees her neighbor
and surrogate grandfather, Ernie, preparing to head off in his camper
without his wife, Ruth, she decides she must join him. Knowing that
Ernie (who has Alzheimer’s disease) will be in trouble on his own,
Jess assumes responsibility for his safety. Together, they embark on a
journey into the wilds of Alberta north of Edmonton.

Disaster strikes along the shores of the Athabasca River—an accident
that wrecks the truck, smashes the camper, and seriously injures Ernie.
Although injured herself, Jess applies the outdoor survival skills Ernie
taught her during numerous camping trips over the years. Her courage and
determination bring their tribulations to a satisfactory conclusion.

This action-packed story features carefully drawn characters and
detailed description. The struggles of Jess and Ernie against the forces
of nature are especially well depicted. The multiple perspectives make
for a rather long and involved plot, but young readers who persevere
should find the adventure worth their time and effort. Recommended.