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Review: Wilderness Hacks

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By Joslin Brorsen
New York : Alfred A. Knopf, 2026. 327 pages.

Sadie Hahn hasn't spent much time outdoors since her father, who taught her everything she needs to know about camping and outdoor survival, died. Her younger brother Silas, however, leaned in the opposite direction. He focused all of his energy on learning more about outdoor survival—particularly from his favorite YouTuber, Radley Shaw. So when Radley opens up a contest to kids who live the Rockies encourage them to show him around their local spots, Silas convinces his sister to cook and eat grubs as part of their entry. When Sadie unexpectedly wins the contest, she brings Silas with her to meet Radley. Unfortunately, Radley isn't what he appears to be on their channel, but when an earthquake breaks open the dam and floods the river that they are traveling, Sadie and Radley will have to work together to survive.

For kids who love survival stories like Hatchet and My Side of the Mountain but are looking for a book that talks about present-day issues, this is a great pick. Wilderness Hacks does a great job of not only being a survival story, but also touching on real-life subjects like grief and the dark sides of being a child social media star. Kids will be flipping through the pages to find out what happens next.
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