Synopses & Reviews
"An unforgettable story." --Starred,
Booklist"Nature and civilization collide in this thought-provoking picture book based on the story of a boy discovered living alone in the mountain forests of southern France in 1800 . . . Young readers will be fascinated, perhaps even spurred to further investigate the facts behind the story." --Starred, Publishers Weekly
"The illustrations, executed in textured paint strokes and rough, crosshatched lines, evoke the untamed freedom of a child who lives purely for himself. The page design heightens the emotional tension and moves the story forward." --Starred, School Library Journal
Synopsis
Once there was a boy who lived in the mountain forests of southern France. He lived completely alone, without mother, father, or friends. He didn't know what a mother or father was. He was naked. He didn't know what clothes were. He didn't know he was a boy, or even a person. He didn't know what people were. He was completely wild.
In simple prose and an abundance of sharp, vivid illustrations that capture the energy of youth, this extraordinarily touching picture book brings to life the child who was Victor in a way that will delight and engage young readers.
About the Author
Mordicai Gerstein, a painter, a sculptor, and a prizewinning filmmaker, has written and illustrated many books for children, including
Victor, a novel for older readers exploring the same subject as
The Wild Boy. He lives in Northampton, Massachusetts.