Don Strong, Patrol Leader   By: William Heyliger

In Don Strong, Patrol Leader by William Heyliger, readers are taken on an exciting journey with a group of young scouts as they navigate through thrilling adventures and learn valuable life lessons along the way.

The story revolves around Don Strong, a charismatic and responsible young boy who is elected as the patrol leader of his scout troop. As Don assumes his new role, he quickly realizes the weight of his responsibilities and the importance of being a fair, compassionate leader.

What sets this book apart is its focus on character development and the exploration of various themes such as friendship, loyalty, and perseverance. Through Don's encounters with challenges, readers are shown the power of teamwork and the significance of trust in building strong relationships.

Heyliger skillfully creates a vivid picture of the scouts' world, immersing readers in the thrilling outdoor activities they undertake. From hiking treacherous trails, setting up camp, and solving riddles, the author infuses the narrative with plenty of action and suspense, keeping readers engaged throughout.

One of the highlights of the book is the well-drawn supporting characters, each with their unique personalities and strengths. Heyliger fosters a sense of camaraderie among the scouts, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve their goals. This not only provides a balanced dynamic within the story but also serves as an excellent example for young readers on the value of cooperation and unity.

Furthermore, Don Strong, Patrol Leader subtly incorporates important life lessons, teaching young readers about selflessness, respect for nature, and the importance of listening to others. The novel presents these lessons in an organic manner, woven seamlessly into the plot without feeling didactic or forced.

The writing itself is clear and concise, making it accessible to young readers. Heyliger's prose has an easy flow that keeps the pace brisk, making it perfect for those seeking an engaging read. However, at times, the dialogue can feel slightly stilted, although this does not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, Don Strong, Patrol Leader is an inspiring book that will appeal to young readers who are interested in adventure, scouting, and characters they can look up to. With its well-rounded characters, thrilling plot, and valuable life lessons, William Heyliger's novel serves as an excellent addition to any young reader's library.

First Page:

The books of EVERY BOY'S LIBRARY were selected by the Library Commission of the Boy Scouts of America, consisting of George F. Bowerman, Librarian, Public Library of the District of Columbia; Harrison W. Craver, Director, Engineering Societies Library, New York City; Claude G. Leland, Superintendent, Bureau of Libraries, Board of Education, New York City; Edward F. Stevens, Librarian, Pratt Institute Free Library, Brooklyn, N.Y., and Franklin K, Mathiews, Chief Scout Librarian. Only such books were chosen by the Commission as proved to be, by a nation wide canvas , most in demand by the boys themselves... Continue reading book >>