I have to credit my early love of this book for a phase of reclusive nature-loving, and much fantasizing about running away from home to live off the land. I did actually go out and attempt to locate and consume all of the potential food sources mentioned in this story. Use with caution around strong-willed, adventurous children! :) On the whole, I still consider this to be a valuable contributor to my development, and self-sufficiency. 
 Well written and engaging, I've rarely again enjoyed the perspective of a young boy so much. Though, for the life of me, I never got a solid impression of Sam's age. Perhaps that was a good thing, ultimately.