An orphan reflects on the lessons he was taught by the wise old man who raised him in this lyrical novel that reads like poetry from three-time Newbery Honor–winning author Gary Paulsen.

Deep in the woods, in a rustic cabin, lives an old man and the boy he’s raised as his own. This sage old man has taught the boy the power of nature and how to live in it, and more importantly, to respect it. In Fishbone’s Song, this boy reminisces about the magic of the man who raised him and the tales that he used to tell—all true, but different each time.

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: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (September 27, 2016)
Length: 160 pages
ISBN13: 9781481452281
Ages: 10 - 99
Lexile ® 1000L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®

Raves and Reviews

"The best of literature is transformative and Fishbone's Song has the alchemist's magic that has left this reader's heart a bit wiser and braver and more present."

– Judith Rovenger, Children’s Literature Consultant

"It is the master author branching out, much like a spider, weaving the web, new designs, thoughtful planning. Then, readers are ensnared, wrapped in layers of that silky thread, held motionless by the story."

– Dr. Teri Lesesne, Sam Houston State University

"A beautifully written elegy to coming of age in bygone days that, unfortunately, oversimplifies complex issues."

– Kirkus Reviews

"'Hunting is watching. Watching to know. Watching to learn to see and know and learn. A way to get food, but more, more than that a way to learn, to know. A way to be.' This sort of repetition of phrases is poetic and, at times, almost hypnotic."

– Booklist

"Fans of Paulsen and those who love woodsy hunting stories will welcome this latest short novel from the three-time Newbery Honor author."

– School Library Journal