One Wrong Step: A Journey of Resilience and Growth
When I first heard about Jennifer Nielsen’s latest novel, One Wrong Step, I couldn’t resist picking it up, especially after being swept away by her Ascendance series. In this gripping middle-grade historical fiction, Nielsen takes us on a climb fraught with danger, but also rich with emotional exploration. I found myself not only captivated by the adventure but also deeply moved by the themes of loss, courage, and personal growth.
The story follows Atlas Wade, a fourteen-year-old boy determined to overcome his personal demons while scaling the treacherous heights of Mount Everest. As he embarks on this daring expedition with his father—who initially refuses to bring him along—Atlas grapples with his painful past. His mother’s death casts a long shadow over his journey, and the mountain becomes a metaphor for the challenges he faces, both literally and emotionally. I was particularly struck by the quote, “My dad always says that where a person looks, their feet will follow.” This theme of perspective resonates throughout the narrative, pushing Atlas to shift his focus from the pain of his past to the hope of his future.
Nielsen delivers a narrative that is as exhilarating as it is heartwarming. The dynamic between Atlas and Maddie Pierson, a quick-witted American girl who partners with him in a desperate race against time, adds layers to the story. Their bond reveals the importance of trust and friendship in overcoming adversity. I appreciated how Maddie’s level-headed nature contrasted beautifully with Atlas’s emotional turmoil, making both characters relatable and engaging.
The writing style, rich with vivid imagery, captures the majestic yet perilous nature of Everest. Nielsen expertly illustrates how any misstep can have dire consequences, bringing a palpable tension to each moment of their trek. One line that particularly resonated with me was, “How beautiful it was, but how cruel, to beckon climbers to its trails over and over again.” It beautifully encapsulates the bittersweet allure of the mountain, reflecting its promise of glory intertwined with tragedy.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The narrative occasionally stumbles through transitions of past events, slightly disrupting the flow. Additionally, while the inclusion of a Nazi subplot offers a unique touch, it felt somewhat heavy-handed at times, at odds with the more personal stakes of the story. The ending, lacking a robust epilogue, left me yearning for a bit more resolution, a chance to see how the journey impacted Atlas and Maddie in the long run.
Despite its imperfections, One Wrong Step inspires readers to face their mountains—both the literal and metaphorical. This adventure isn’t just about reaching the summit; it’s about understanding that each step forward brings healing and growth. The message is clear: life will always involve risks and fears, but it’s vital to keep moving, to take that next step, however daunting it may feel.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartfelt coming-of-age stories with a backdrop of adventure. One Wrong Step is a testament to resilience, perfect for young readers and adults alike who are looking for inspiration amid life’s challenges. As I closed the final pages, I found myself reflecting not only on Atlas’s journey but also on my own—the mountains I’ve scaled and those still ahead. And yes, I may have even found myself humming along to Miley Cyrus’s "Climb" afterward, feeling invigorated by Nielsen’s storytelling.
A huge thank you to Edelweiss for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. 💜