Sam’s Desert Adventure, a featured book for young readers

Jonah Arizona’s Sam’s Desert Adventure, the newest publication for young readers from Moonlight Mesa Associates, Inc., is a sure treat for young readers in the 7-11 age range. Parents will love the mischievous and lovable Sam Davenport. that he will remind them of his own childhood and his own children.

Set in Arizona, the story features a boy named Sam Davenport and his hilariously acquired mule, Bucket. Sam’s older sister, Alice, adds a charming touch to the story, and Sam’s elderly neighbor, Mr. Melby, helps flesh out this tale of youthful adventures and hard-learned lessons.

Despite Sam’s handsome appeal, he is an impulsive boy with a wild imagination who often forgets to consider the consequences of his youthful antics. Sam learns many hard lessons the summer he acquires Bucket, but has many exciting adventures in the process. He slowly grows to understand that actions have consequences and that he must be held accountable for those actions.

However, this story goes beyond Sam’s childlike behavior, and the author shows a sensitivity and thoughtfulness in the ten-year-old that is deeply moving. Sam’s friendship with his elderly neighbor, Mr. Melby, is remarkable, and Sam’s compassion for his elderly grandparents will tug at his heartstrings. Even his consideration of his sister’s feelings will bring a smile to her face.

Not to be forgotten in this story of childhood adventures, growth and learning, the other main character of the book, Bucket. Sam’s mule is unforgettable and perhaps even more charming than Sam himself. The little mule, in his own headstrong way, teaches Sam some of the most important lessons he learns. Sam’s attachment and love for his mule is tender and touching. Bucket fills a void in Sam’s life since he had to walk away from his childhood friend, and the mule becomes Sam’s best friend and constant companion.

Sam’s Desert Adventure is full of humor, warmth, hard-earned lessons, and extremely well-drawn characters. Sam’s parents are to be envied and admired for their patience and understanding in raising a boy who will undoubtedly grow into a fine young man despite the trials he sometimes presents to them. Although Sam’s parents are strict, there is never any doubt that their actions are motivated solely by love for their son. The relationship that Sam has with his parents is warm and stable, a model for all given the challenges that Sam sometimes presents.

Highly recommended by MidWest Book Review lead reviewer Shirley Johnson, Sam’s Desert Adventure is a title that will be read again and again by parents and young readers alike.