This is a unique book and fascinating story, where seven developmentally challenged adults (8 if you count Dave the volunteer) go camping in the wilds of National Parks.
Dave, who somewhat volunteers to go along on the insane 10-day trip, soon discovers he is the challenged one from his corporate world. He has little patience for anybody, including himself, and consistently thinks about losing Ray in the woods.
Other than Dave, and Rachel the leader, the seven adults are aliens when it comes to camping, and learning how to get along with nature and each other and be exposed outside of their protected institutions.
It is very entertaining and a joy to read for anyone who wants an escape from their lives, to be exposed to those with disabled minds and bodies, and with many side-splitting laughs. It slowly draws you into the characters and leaves you craving more.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: This story follows Dave, teetering on the edge of career burnout, as he helps guide a national park camping trip for seven adults with developmental disabilities. The plot lacks development, though the character-driven moments are engaging.
Prose: The power of nature is evoked throughout the narrative, first through the eyes of Dave—who recognizes its restorative abilities—and later through the eyes of the seven campers, who discover firsthand the beauty and intensity of the outdoors. There are a handful of language choices that may be off-putting to some readers.
Originality: The narrative offers a unique perspective of adults with disabilities and hits on several distinctive topics.
Character/Execution: The author spends time spotlighting each of the seven campers’ personalities, and they steal the show—more so than the primary lead, Dave. Their charisma shines through the struggles and victories of the trip, and, contrary to Dave’s initial opinion, they are the true mentors of this story. However, some of the descriptions of their characteristics lean heavily on stereotypes.
Date Submitted: August 25, 2023
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: This is a heartwarming story that will engage and entertain readers. Nordstrom clearly showcases Dave's growth through the course of the book, as he evolves from an impatient and uncertain mentor to self-composed and capable. Readers will welcome the novel's sense of fellowship as they become more familiar with the campers in Dave's care.
Prose: Nordstrom's characterization skills are persuasive, and his writing captures the individuality of the cast, adding to the book's refreshing and upbeat themes.
Originality: Camping with Aliens offers memorable characters who will stick with readers long after the story is finished, and the book's premise is highly creative.
Character Development/Execution: Nordstrom shines in his character development. Dave is skillfully drawn, full of predetermined—and inaccurate—judgments about people with disabilities, and his eventual transformation is both entertaining and rewarding. The characters with developmental disabilities are believable, endearing, and a testament to resilience.
Date Submitted: August 19, 2022
“What have I gotten myself into this time?” wonders Dave as heads to a travel van along with seven special needs adults. They’re soon off on a ten-day camping trip in the wilderness and a journey of self-discovery.Dave’s initial question takes an unexpected turn as the group heads into two national parks, Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. A “strong-willed business analyst” in a cut-throat, high stress job, Dave agrees to go along on the trip only to help out his long-time friend and group leader, Rachel. What he finds out about the other campers, the restorative power of nature, and himself takes up the balance of this captivating read.As Dave settles into the group and gets a read on each of its distinct personalities, he starts wondering if he’s the one who’s “developmentally challenged.” What about his fellow campers, who find “joy and happiness in the simplest of things”? Along the way Dave muses that “Life’s goals should not favor ruling over people or trying to gain power over people.” He later has another epiphany: “Life’s goals should be about serving other people.” Meeting other’s needs. Helping them reach their dreams. Celebrating each other’s accomplishments.And that’s exactly what the “Misfit Gang from the Loony Bin” does in this upbeat, agile book, “Bad Attitude Ray” notwithstanding.Camping With Aliens is also about how interacting with special needs people broke Dave out of his “self-induced prison” and “taught him to celebrate other people’s lives.”This is such a fun read. The plot is structurally sound and nimble. With top-notch writing and pitch-perfect pacing, this engaging, upbeat story is both enjoyable and informative. It’ll tickle your funny bone and open your eyes. I didn’t want it to end. Delightful!
