When you think of outdoorsy books for teens, is the first title that comes to mind the classic Hatchet by Gary Paulsen? Outdoorsy books can certainly be about wilderness survival. But they can also be so much more, from fantasy to murder mysteries to humor. Here are some titles you could read this weekend for the JMRL July Challenge of “Read something outdoorsy.”

Dan vs. Nature by Don Calame
Sent on a survivalist camping trip with his mom’s new fiance, all Dan wants to do is sabotage the trip and torment Hank to the breaking point. This book is for those who like their outdoors with heavy dose of teenage boy humor.

The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black
The town of Fairfold lives in uneasy truce with the fae in the forest. The townspeople learn early how to protect themselves, but tourists aren’t so lucky. At the heart of the forest, a young man with horns and pointed ears sleeps in a glass coffin. Siblings Ben and Hazel both love the boy in the forest. When the coffin is broken and the boy disappears, it is up to them to find him and save the town. A must read for fans of tales of the dark fae.

After the Snow by S.D. Crockett
Set in a future Britain where climate changes have cause a steep drop in temperature, Willo Blake must set off through the snows to try to find his family. This book combines dystopian and post-apocalyptic themes with a good, old-fashioned survival story.

Peak by Roland Smith
Fourteen-year-old Peak is sent to live with his father who runs a climbing company in Thailand. He quickly learns that his dad has ambitious plans for him. He wants Peak to become the youngest person to reach the summit of Mt. Everest. For a climbing addict, it’s the challenge of a lifetime, but one with significant dangers.

For more outdoorsy book options check out the JMRL Goodreads shelf: Outdoorsy Books for Teens