Knife River: a Boy, a Knife, and the Summer That Changed Everything

A boy. A storm. A knife—and a secret buried by the river.When thirteen-year-old Noah Ridge sets out on a summer rafting trip through the rugged canyon country, he expects adventure—not disaster.But when a flash flood tears through camp, Noah is swept miles downstream and left alone in the wilderness with nothing but his backpack… and the knife his dad gave him the day before.Struggling to survive storms, hunger, and a broken ankle, Noah stumbles upon a half-buried truck with a skeleton inside—and a mystery that’s been hidden by the river for decades.Now, every decision could mean life or death as Noah fights to stay alive long enough to uncover the truth.A powerful story of courage, resilience, and discovery, Knife River is perfect for fans of Hatchet, The Skeleton Tree, and My Side of the Mountain.Teachers and parents will love how this thrilling survival story explores:🌲 STEM-friendly survival problem-solving (fire-starting, shelter, water, first aid)❤️ Emotional growth and perseverance after family changes🔍 Critical thinking and mystery-solving through observation and evidence💬 Relatable voice and clean language ideal for grades 5–8Can Noah survive the canyon—and uncover the river’s secret—before it’s too late?