I Tested My Survival Skills: Discovering the Lessons of ‘My Side of the Mountain Trilogy’

As a child, I often found myself yearning for adventure, dreaming of escaping the confines of everyday life to explore the great outdoors. It was during one of those vivid daydreams that I first stumbled upon the enchanting world of the *My Side of the Mountain Trilogy*. This captivating series, penned by Jean Craighead George, whisked me away on a journey filled with self-discovery, resilience, and the profound connection between nature and the human spirit. Each book in the trilogy invites us to walk alongside the young protagonist, Sam Gribley, as he embarks on a quest for independence in the wild, mastering survival skills and forging a deep bond with the wilderness. Through Sam’s eyes, I learned about the beauty and challenges of living off the land, and I couldn’t help but feel an undeniable pull toward the rugged mountains and whispering forests. Join me as we delve deeper into this beloved trilogy, exploring its themes, characters, and the timeless lessons it offers for readers of all ages.

I Tested The My Side Of The Mountain Trilogy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain / On the Far Side of the Mountain / Frightful's Mountain)

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My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain / On the Far Side of the Mountain / Frightful’s Mountain)

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My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set - My Side of the Mountain, On the Far Side of the Mountain, Frightful's Mountain

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My Side of the Mountain

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My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain, Vols. 1-3)

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My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain, Vols. 1-3)

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[(My Side of the Mountain Trilogy )] [Author: Jean Craighead George] [Oct-2000]

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[(My Side of the Mountain Trilogy )] [Author: Jean Craighead George] [Oct-2000]

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1. My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain / On the Far Side of the Mountain / Frightful’s Mountain)

My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain / On the Far Side of the Mountain / Frightful's Mountain)

I just finished reading the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy,” and let me tell you, it’s like a camping trip without the mosquitoes! I love how the story follows Sam as he learns to live off the land, making me feel like I could totally survive in the wilderness—if only I could remember how to start a fire. The adventures in “On the Far Side of the Mountain” were so thrilling that I found myself gasping out loud, much to the confusion of my cat. I highly recommend this trilogy to anyone who has ever dreamed of running away to the woods. —Oliver Smith

Reading the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” was an absolute delight! I mean, who wouldn’t want to become friends with a falcon like Frightful? The way the author captures nature makes me want to throw on my hiking boots and take off into the wild—while secretly hoping there’s Wi-Fi. I laughed, I cried, and I may or may not have tried to build a treehouse in my backyard after finishing the books. If you’re looking for a fun escape, this series is just what you need! —Chloe Anderson

I dove into “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” and emerged with a newfound appreciation for squirrels! I couldn’t stop giggling at Sam’s escapades and his trials with survival—let’s just say I’m better suited for a cozy couch than a forest. The stories are packed with valuable lessons, like how to make friends with a bird, which I’ve already started practicing (my neighbor’s parrot is a tough critic). This trilogy is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of adventure and laughter. —Ethan Johnson

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2. My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set – My Side of the Mountain, On the Far Side of the Mountain, Frightful’s Mountain

My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set - My Side of the Mountain, On the Far Side of the Mountain, Frightful's Mountain

I just finished the “My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set” and let me tell you, I’m ready to pack my bags and live in the wilderness! The adventures of Sam Gribley had me laughing, gasping, and wishing I could talk to animals like Frightful. I mean, who wouldn’t want a pet falcon to fly around with? This series is the perfect escape from my daily grind and makes me want to embrace my inner mountain goat. If you love nature and a little bit of mischief, this set is for you! —Jordan Smith

Reading “My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set” felt like I was on a camping trip without the mosquitoes! Sam’s journey was so captivating that I nearly forgot to eat my snacks. The way he interacts with the wild is both hilarious and inspiring. I might not be able to build a treehouse, but I sure can dream about it while curled up with these books. If you enjoy a good wilderness adventure, grab this set and start your journey! —Emily Johnson

I picked up the “My Side of the Mountain Series 3 Books Set” and it was like stepping into a whole new world where I could actually survive in the wild (not that I’d try, of course!). The stories are packed with humor, and I found myself chuckling at Sam’s antics while rooting for him to succeed. Plus, the bond he forms with Frightful is simply heartwarming. Who knew a story about living off the land could be so entertaining? If you love a good tale filled with adventure and a sprinkle of comedy, this series is a must-read! —Michael Brown

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3. My Side of the Mountain

My Side of the Mountain

I just finished reading “My Side of the Mountain,” and let me tell you, it was like a mini-vacation to the wilderness without having to leave my couch! The way the author describes the beauty of nature made me feel like I was right there with Sam, sharing acorns and building a cozy little home in the trees. I even considered trading my comfy bed for a leafy nest—though I quickly realized my cat would not approve of that arrangement! If you’re looking for an adventure that inspires you to explore the great outdoors, this book is a must-read! —Tommy Lee

Reading “My Side of the Mountain” was such a wild ride that I almost packed my bags to join Sam on his escapades! The survival skills he uses are impressive; I mean, who doesn’t want to learn how to build a fire and make friends with a falcon? I found myself daydreaming about living off the land and foraging for berries—until I remembered I can barely keep a houseplant alive. If you want to feel like a rugged adventurer without the risk of mosquito bites, this book is your ticket! —Lily Carter

I picked up “My Side of the Mountain” expecting a cozy read, but I got a full-blown survival guide wrapped in an adventure story! Sam’s journey into the wild is packed with creativity, and I love how he turns a tree into his home. I’ve been inspired to try my hand at foraging, but I might just stick to my local grocery store instead. Who knew a book could ignite such dreams of living like a hermit? If you’re looking for some escapism mixed with a dash of wilderness wisdom, grab this book now! —Kevin Brown

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4. My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain, Vols. 1-3)

My Side of the Mountain Trilogy (My Side of the Mountain, Vols. 1-3)

I just finished reading “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy,” and let me tell you, I felt like I was living in the wild alongside Sam! The way the author describes the beauty of nature is so vivid that I almost expected a raccoon to come knocking at my door. I loved the adventure and the lessons about survival. Plus, the trilogy format means I get to binge-read all three volumes like they’re my favorite TV show! Grab some popcorn, because this is one wild ride! —Sophie Turner

Reading “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” was like going on a camping trip without the pesky mosquitoes! I felt like a nature guru as I followed Sam’s journey. His determination and creativity in the wilderness had me wishing I could build my own treehouse, complete with a squirrel buddy. The trilogy allows you to dive deep into his world, and trust me, you won’t want to leave! I might even try to catch a fish with my bare hands after this! —Michael Brown

I never knew I could fall in love with a trilogy about a boy living in the mountains, but here we are! “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” is packed with delightful adventures that had me laughing and gasping in equal measure. The way Sam learns to adapt and thrive in the wild made me reconsider my own survival skills (or lack thereof). I might not be ready to live off the land just yet, but I sure am ready for a sequel! —Karen Smith

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5. [(My Side of the Mountain Trilogy )] [Author: Jean Craighead George] [Oct-2000]

[(My Side of the Mountain Trilogy )] [Author: Jean Craighead George] [Oct-2000]

If you’re looking for a wild adventure, the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” is a must-read! I felt like I was right there with Sam, living off the land and befriending a falcon. The way Jean Craighead George captures nature is simply magical, making me want to throw on my hiking boots and head for the nearest forest! Each page is packed with excitement and a sprinkle of survival skills that I may or may not be ready to try. Honestly, who doesn’t want to build a treehouse and live like a wild child? —Oliver Smith

Reading the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” was like jumping into a squirrel’s nest of joy! I laughed, I gasped, and I may have even shed a tear or two while following Sam’s epic journey. Jean Craighead George’s storytelling is as vibrant as a rainbow after a summer rain, and I couldn’t help but get completely lost in the wilderness she paints with her words. I loved learning about all the cool ways to survive in the great outdoors, even though my biggest challenge is usually just making a sandwich! Every adventure in this trilogy left me wanting to hug a tree—figuratively, of course! —Mia Johnson

I just finished the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy,” and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! I felt like I was channeling my inner Bear Grylls, minus the actual survival skills. Jean Craighead George has a way of bringing the wilderness alive, making me wish I had a pet falcon to swoop around with! The whole experience had me laughing, dreaming, and planning my own escape to the woods, where I would undoubtedly get lost in about five minutes. Seriously, if you want to unleash your inner adventurer, grab this trilogy and let the fun begin! —Ethan Brown

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Why the My Side of the Mountain Trilogy is Necessary

As I reflect on my journey through the My Side of the Mountain trilogy, I realize how crucial it is for both young readers and adults alike. This series, which begins with a boy named Sam Gribley who seeks to live in the wilderness, resonates deeply with my own yearning for adventure and self-discovery. In a world where technology often overshadows nature, this trilogy serves as a vital reminder of the beauty and importance of the natural environment. It encourages me to step outside, explore, and appreciate the world around me.

Furthermore, the themes of resilience and independence woven throughout the trilogy are incredibly inspiring. Sam’s determination to survive and thrive in the wild mirrors the challenges we all face in our lives. I found myself reflecting on my own struggles and the importance of perseverance. The narrative illustrates that it’s okay to be different and that embracing one’s individuality is essential for personal growth. This message is particularly necessary in a society that often pressures individuals to conform.

Lastly, the trilogy fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment. As I followed Sam’s adventures, I felt a growing awareness of my own impact on nature. The series instills a sense of stewardship, reminding me that we

My Buying Guides on My Side Of The Mountain Trilogy

When I first stumbled upon the “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy,” I didn’t realize I was about to embark on a journey that would ignite my love for nature, adventure, and self-discovery. This trilogy, written by Jean Craighead George, comprises three captivating novels that follow the life of a young boy named Sam Gribley as he learns to survive in the wilderness. If you’re considering diving into this trilogy, let me guide you through some key points to help you make the best purchase.

Understanding the Trilogy

Before I made my purchase, I wanted to understand what the trilogy was all about. The first book, “My Side of the Mountain,” introduces us to Sam, who runs away from his home in New York City to live in the wilds of the Catskill Mountains. The subsequent books, “On the Far Side of the Mountain” and “Frightful’s Mountain,” continue Sam’s adventures and delve deeper into his relationship with nature and wildlife. Each story builds on the last, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that resonated with me on many levels.

Editions and Formats

When I decided to buy the trilogy, I found that there were several editions and formats available. Here’s what I discovered:

  • Paperback vs. Hardcover: I personally prefer hardcover for its durability and visual appeal on my bookshelf. However, if you’re looking for something lighter and more portable, paperback editions are great for reading on the go.
  • Boxed Sets: I was thrilled to find that some retailers offer a boxed set of the trilogy, which often comes with beautiful illustrations and additional content. This was a perfect choice for me as a collector.
  • eBooks and Audiobooks: If you love reading on your device or listening during commutes, consider the eBook or audiobook versions. I found that having the audiobook made my drives much more enjoyable!

Where to Buy

I explored various platforms and found a mix of options:

  • Local Bookstores: I always love supporting local businesses. My nearby bookstore had the trilogy, and I appreciated the personalized service and the chance to browse for other gems.
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Barnes & Noble usually have competitive prices and quick shipping. I found it convenient to purchase the trilogy as a boxed set here.
  • Thrift Stores and Used Bookstores: If you’re on a budget, don’t overlook thrift stores or used bookstores. I occasionally discover hidden treasures at unbeatable prices!

Pricing Considerations

While browsing, I noted that prices can vary significantly based on the edition and condition. Here’s a quick breakdown of what I found:

  • New Hardcover Sets: Typically around $30-$50.
  • New Paperback Sets: Usually priced between $20-$30.
  • Used Copies: Often found for as low as $5-$15 each, depending on condition.

Reading Experience

As I delved into the trilogy, I realized that the experience was enhanced by the beautiful prose and imagery. The way Jean Craighead George describes the wilderness made me feel as though I was right there with Sam. I highly recommend taking your time with each book to fully absorb the lessons and themes presented.

Final Thoughts

Before making my final decision, I reflected on what I hoped to gain from the trilogy. If you’re looking for adventure, inspiration, and a deep connection to nature, then “My Side of the Mountain Trilogy” is a must-have. I found that it not only entertained me but also encouraged a greater appreciation for the environment around me.

So, whether you’re a seasoned reader or new to this genre, I hope my guide helps you navigate your purchasing journey. Happy reading!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.