About The Book

In the Old Days There Were Songs
Something is bothering Russel Susskit. He hates waking up to the sound of his father's coughing, the smell of diesel oil, the noise of snow machines starting up.
Only Oogruk, the shaman who owns the last team of dogs in the village, understands Russel's longing for the old ways and the songs that celebrated them. But Oogruk cannot give Russel the answers he seeks; the old man can only prepare him for what he must do alone. Driven by a strange, powerful dream of a long-ago self and by a burning desire to find his own song, Russel takes Oogruk's dogs on an epic journey of self-discovery that will change his life forever.

About The Author

Photo by Ruth Wright Paulsen

Gary Paulsen

Gary Paulsen (1931–2021) was one of the most honored writers of contemporary literature for young readers, author of three Newbery Honor titles, Dogsong, Hatchet, and The Winter Room. He wrote over 100 books for adults and young readers.

Product Details

Publisher: Atheneum/Richard Jackson Books (February 1, 2000)
Length: 192 pages
ISBN13: 9780689839603
Ages: 12 - 99
Lexile ® 930L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®