Get outdoors and have amazing real-life adventures with an inspirational guide from adventurer, world-record breaker, and British TV personality Helen Skelton.
From kayaking the length of the Amazon to biking to the South Pole and running an ultramarathon across the Namib desert, Helen Skelton shares the stories of her most daring feats of endurance and grit in some of the world’s most extreme wildernesses—overcoming challenges, embracing her fears, and finding the positives in the toughest situations. Alongside each exciting account are ideas for outdoor adventures readers can have closer to home, as well as gear lists, information about Helen’s support teams, statistics, tips for physical and mental preparation, and a Wild Girl Wall of Fame featuring the diverse women who inspired Helen with their own achievements. A likable, no-nonsense tone paired with a combination of photographs and fun art will inspire young people to get outside and dream big.
Readers will be on the edge of their seats as they follow each incredible story; Skelton’s honesty about the roles of motivation, confidence, mentorship, and teamwork makes for an impressive lesson in the mechanics of mind over matter. The colorful spreads are well designed, with layouts that are easy to browse or read, stylized illustrations of diverse girls being active, and the occasional photograph of Skelton (who presents White) in action. Positively thrilling.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
Helen Skelton, a white English woman, has a list of impressive accomplishments, including an ultra marathon across the Namib Desert and a high-wire walk above London...many readers will be motivated by Skelton’s experiences, and her perseverance and grit are inspiring. Readers gain a wealth of information about the landforms and wildlife of various regions on Earth, which may spark wanderlust. A unique and invigorating addition to nonfiction collections for young adolescents.
—School Library Journal