What do you think?
Rate this book
Shouting at the Sky
Award-winning nature writer Gary Ferguson spent a season at one of the country's most remarkable programs for troubled teens. Along these trails can be found insights into how young lives can go so terribly wrong and how nature's power to heal is so powerful. In the end a quiet understanding of how many of our fondest hopes for tomorrow are teetering on the brink, waiting for us to find the courage to build more genuine connections to our kids.
254 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 1999
25 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Gary Ferguson
82 books80 followersNature writer, 1956-
Award-winning author Gary Ferguson has written for a variety of national publications, including Vanity Fair and the Chicago Tribune, and is the author of twenty-six books on nature and science. His memoir, The Carry Home, which the Los Angeles Times called “gorgeous, with beauty on every page,” was awarded “Best Nature book of the Year” by the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute. Gary is the co-founder of Full Ecology, with his wife, social scientists Mary M. Clare.
Award-winning author Gary Ferguson has written for a variety of national publications, including Vanity Fair and the Chicago Tribune, and is the author of twenty-six books on nature and science. His memoir, The Carry Home, which the Los Angeles Times called “gorgeous, with beauty on every page,” was awarded “Best Nature book of the Year” by the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute. Gary is the co-founder of Full Ecology, with his wife, social scientists Mary M. Clare.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 24, 2009
This book is about a wilderness therapy program for troubled teens. This is a program that takes teenagers dealing with things like drug abuse or other emotional problems and takes them into the Utah desert with only the bare essentials. The kids have to build a fire by literally rubbing two sticks together, if they are unable to they can't sit by the fire or eat warm food. They have to erect their own shelter, or be exposed to the elements. And they have to get their gear out to the sites by taking it in hand carts (which take 4-5 people working together to move.)
I read this book because my cousin Pete (who recommended it to me) worked at such a program. In fact, I think it was exactly the same program that this book is about. I was really impressed by what he had chosen to do after college (I myself sold out to the highest bidder immediately.) He was doing something difficult that was helping people. However I only knew what he was doing was difficult in an intellectual way. Meaning, I know I couldn't handle doing what he was doing. However, I didn't have any idea about the depth of the emotional issues that the kids he was working with were facing. This book really helped me understand that, and how it must feel. I respected my cousin for what he was doing, but after reading this book my respect for him has grown immensely.
Gary Ferguson is a Nature writer, and involved with NPR. Which is why he decided (and was qualified) to write this book.
The book covers the author tagging along with two groups of kids one boys and one girls (kept separate for all the obvious reasons.) He describes their physical activities, their dialogue, and the group dynamics. He includes poems that the kids write, and these are some of the most moving things he includes in the book. He also discusses the history of wilderness therapy (it was started about a hundred years ago, by accident.) Some of the theory behind why this therapy works (the consequences of screwing off are real and immediate for these kids.) He also talks about the instructors (the younger people who assist the therapists) in the field, and how they live and relax betwen such intense outings.
The writing is in a simple journalistic style, and accordingly reading goes quickly. In fact, I read all but the last chapter and the epilogue on a flight from Seattle to Chicago. Despite the simple and quick reading style Ferguson is able to convey the powerful emotional moments of the kids in a moving and meaningful way. I think that as a writer Ferguson did a great job with the subject.
Ferguson discusses how rites of passage are used as part of the wilderness therapy. I found this very interesting, because he comments that there is a real lack of rites of passage in our culture. This made me think of Fight Club, because Palahniuk talks a lot about this, and how people in our society don't know how or when to feel grown up.
The physical copy of the book that I read had some emotional baggage for me. It had been read by my cousin's grandma (and had her name written in it) as well as my grandma (and still had her bookmark in it.) Both have died in the last year and a half. I obtained this book from my Grandmother's apartment after she died, and I had wanted to read it anyway. Finding the name and bookmark reminded me of these two great women and unexpectedly reminded me of them.
I read this book because my cousin Pete (who recommended it to me) worked at such a program. In fact, I think it was exactly the same program that this book is about. I was really impressed by what he had chosen to do after college (I myself sold out to the highest bidder immediately.) He was doing something difficult that was helping people. However I only knew what he was doing was difficult in an intellectual way. Meaning, I know I couldn't handle doing what he was doing. However, I didn't have any idea about the depth of the emotional issues that the kids he was working with were facing. This book really helped me understand that, and how it must feel. I respected my cousin for what he was doing, but after reading this book my respect for him has grown immensely.
Gary Ferguson is a Nature writer, and involved with NPR. Which is why he decided (and was qualified) to write this book.
The book covers the author tagging along with two groups of kids one boys and one girls (kept separate for all the obvious reasons.) He describes their physical activities, their dialogue, and the group dynamics. He includes poems that the kids write, and these are some of the most moving things he includes in the book. He also discusses the history of wilderness therapy (it was started about a hundred years ago, by accident.) Some of the theory behind why this therapy works (the consequences of screwing off are real and immediate for these kids.) He also talks about the instructors (the younger people who assist the therapists) in the field, and how they live and relax betwen such intense outings.
The writing is in a simple journalistic style, and accordingly reading goes quickly. In fact, I read all but the last chapter and the epilogue on a flight from Seattle to Chicago. Despite the simple and quick reading style Ferguson is able to convey the powerful emotional moments of the kids in a moving and meaningful way. I think that as a writer Ferguson did a great job with the subject.
Ferguson discusses how rites of passage are used as part of the wilderness therapy. I found this very interesting, because he comments that there is a real lack of rites of passage in our culture. This made me think of Fight Club, because Palahniuk talks a lot about this, and how people in our society don't know how or when to feel grown up.
The physical copy of the book that I read had some emotional baggage for me. It had been read by my cousin's grandma (and had her name written in it) as well as my grandma (and still had her bookmark in it.) Both have died in the last year and a half. I obtained this book from my Grandmother's apartment after she died, and I had wanted to read it anyway. Finding the name and bookmark reminded me of these two great women and unexpectedly reminded me of them.
April 16, 2015
I read this almost directly after What It Takes to Pull Me Through, and I think this suffered somewhat in comparison. It's a good book, a thoughtful book, but What It Takes was far more the book I was looking for in the moment—so take my rating with that in mind.
To write Shouting at the Sky, Ferguson spent a cycle at a wilderness programme for troubled teens in Utah. 'Troubled' is relative—some of the kids he writes about are budding juvenile delinquents; others struggle with depression or ADD.
The school described in What It Takes involves a fourteen-month (or more) cycle; this wilderness programme lasts only about two months, and many of the teenagers go on to some kind of 'aftercare' programme (not unlike, in some cases, the school in What It Takes). It's meant to be (and sounds like) a therapeutic experience, but honestly, in some cases it sounds like what works so well is simply that the kids aren't expected to be chained to desks for seven or eight hours. I wonder if some of these kids would have done just fine if they'd been able to access this sort of programme (on a long-term basis, not for a few weeks) earlier, not as 'treatment'. (Probably begs a whole host of questions about feasibility and what job and college prospects might look like under those circumstances...but still.)
At any rate, Ferguson follows two groups of teenagers—a male group and a female group—through their time there. He goes through the same training that the counsellors do, although I was never quite sure what role (if any) beyond 'writer' he was expected to play. It's a pretty short book covering a pretty short time period, and I wished there'd been a chance to get to know some of the characters better. I suppose the story isn't so much about them as it is about the programme, and to some extent the Utah wilderness, but, well, I suppose deeper connection with the characters was one of the things I was looking for.
It sounds like an interesting programme, though. 'Troubled' labels (and/or backgrounds) aside, I envy the students (and adults) the experience.
To write Shouting at the Sky, Ferguson spent a cycle at a wilderness programme for troubled teens in Utah. 'Troubled' is relative—some of the kids he writes about are budding juvenile delinquents; others struggle with depression or ADD.
The school described in What It Takes involves a fourteen-month (or more) cycle; this wilderness programme lasts only about two months, and many of the teenagers go on to some kind of 'aftercare' programme (not unlike, in some cases, the school in What It Takes). It's meant to be (and sounds like) a therapeutic experience, but honestly, in some cases it sounds like what works so well is simply that the kids aren't expected to be chained to desks for seven or eight hours. I wonder if some of these kids would have done just fine if they'd been able to access this sort of programme (on a long-term basis, not for a few weeks) earlier, not as 'treatment'. (Probably begs a whole host of questions about feasibility and what job and college prospects might look like under those circumstances...but still.)
At any rate, Ferguson follows two groups of teenagers—a male group and a female group—through their time there. He goes through the same training that the counsellors do, although I was never quite sure what role (if any) beyond 'writer' he was expected to play. It's a pretty short book covering a pretty short time period, and I wished there'd been a chance to get to know some of the characters better. I suppose the story isn't so much about them as it is about the programme, and to some extent the Utah wilderness, but, well, I suppose deeper connection with the characters was one of the things I was looking for.
It sounds like an interesting programme, though. 'Troubled' labels (and/or backgrounds) aside, I envy the students (and adults) the experience.
February 5, 2016
As someone who was in a Wilderness Camp in my teens, I found this to be an interesting read. In many ways, I could relate to the stories in this book. Some of the experiences were very similar and also, completely different. I was in Anneewakee in the 80's. I guess I'm naïve but I thought Anneewakee was the only Wilderness Camp- I didn't realize that there were others across the United States until someone mentioned this book to me. After my leaving Anneewakee, it was just something I never thought about again, until recently when I wrote my own book. Anyway, this was a pretty good book.
June 6, 2018
Great account of wilderness therapy! I currently work for a different company than the one in the book and it was cool to make connections!
October 24, 2012
As the subtitle describes, this is not a feel good nature book. Rather it documents the author's perceptions and experiences in joining the staff and working with troubled teens at an outdoor therapy program. A real, working program that unfortunately closed its doors permanently in August 2011 (Closed due to the economic recession and loss of funding). [return][return]Living near the former Aspen Achievement Academy (Loa, UT) and knowing several former workers (drivers, therapists, the tracker) made me curious to know more about how Aspen operated. I believe the author gave a true account, explained some of the techniques used and made it clear that this challenging endeavor is fraught with disappointment and setbacks; however sometimes the efforts were also rewarded with turning a life around, with saving young people's lives or at least making their life much better.[return][return]It's too bad that we don't invest more in our children, do whatever it takes to help them navigate out of abused, neglected, and troubled lives. Ferguson also makes it clear that there are good and bad wilderness therapy programs, and that it often takes multiple interventions, continued counseling and attention. Recommended read. (lj Mar 2012)
March 29, 2011
I enjoyed reading this one, mainly because someone close to me is currently at Aspen. I liked learning about the many different teens and their stories, although I wished that the author had been able to follow them a little more closely and that we'd gotten a better sense of exactly how they'd changed over the course of the program -- although I realize that with staff changes, the author wasn't really in a position to observe continuously. There are so many loose ends throughout the book, but I appreciate that that's the very nature of being part of a program like this one.
The two main things I will probably carry away from this book: 1) the wish *I* could get some "wilderness therapy" -- you are definitely left with an impression of how amazing this program is. 2) worries about my kids and the many challenges they are going to face over the next 20 years.
The two main things I will probably carry away from this book: 1) the wish *I* could get some "wilderness therapy" -- you are definitely left with an impression of how amazing this program is. 2) worries about my kids and the many challenges they are going to face over the next 20 years.
January 14, 2013
This was a great glimpse into a wilderness program for teens who are really struggling at home - from drugs, depression, anxiety, bad home situation, eating disorders, etc. The author embedded himself as a counselor in the program and let folks know he was going to write a book. We followed the stories of a few teens - boys and girls - and also got input from their parents and psychiatrist.
It was really moving. Getting back to nature gives these kids to be alone with themselves and their thoughts, without any outside influences. So often they lose track of who they are -- this 8-10 week program helps them find it. The tough part is sending them back home or to wherever their next step is.
It was really moving. Getting back to nature gives these kids to be alone with themselves and their thoughts, without any outside influences. So often they lose track of who they are -- this 8-10 week program helps them find it. The tough part is sending them back home or to wherever their next step is.
July 9, 2011
My brother-in-law Jack was a guide on these wilderness treks. I love his stories. I was exstatic when he loaned us the book about his wilderness expedition program. I dream of backpacking in Colorado some day. The content that hit me the most was the programs's "impact letters" tradition. Parents send their wayward children a letter explaining what impact their errant behavior has had on the rest of the family. This is often a turning point in the child's life.
November 5, 2011
This book lured me in slowly. At first, I wasn't particularly engaged with the kids, in part because I couldn't remember who was who. As the program progressed and more of the kids' struggles became clear, I found it compelling and couldn't put it down. By the end, I was convinced that - while this program may not reach everybody who attends - it's essential to those it does.
November 29, 2009
I felt like I have just returned from an incredible journey. My daughter is currently in this program, and reading this book helped me appreciate the self discoveries she's unearthing every day she's there. I am hopeful that this program and the Utah nature can inspire anyone at any age. What each person does with that discovery when they return to "civilization" will be the true test.
February 16, 2010
Truly enjoyed this book! I know personally the power of God's creation in my own life, and I believe that it provides healing moments for all people - especially troubled teens. And Gary Ferguson creates a clear picture of the healing moments that these troubled teens experienced. If only we would all venture into the wilderness and find peace...
May 20, 2010
I read this book last summer to help me understand what one of my best friends did for a living. He worked with high-risk kids in the Southern Utah desert, just as described in Shouting at the Sky. The stories, triumphs, failures, and message are powerful. I found myself both wanting to be a guide, and wishing I had gone through it during my most troubling teenage years.
May 25, 2010
This was a great book. I already had an interest & appreciate for wilderness therapy but this really painted a picture of whats its like for kids to tackle some of their issues in the wilderness. Really makes me want to get involved in a program like this!
March 28, 2012
Tremendous book about troubled kids and the changes that they undergo when sent--usually against their will--to wilderness camps in the desert. Gary Ferguson is one of our most talented nature writers, and a fellow Montanan. A super read!
Read
September 6, 2012Excellent description of a wilderness program. It is important to note that programs have "evolved" since this book was published. Parents who read it should not take the descriptions as current fact.
November 19, 2012
This book does a phenomenal job as to giving personal perspectives into the lives of students as well as wilderness field staff in Wilderness Therapy Programs. It was beautifully written, and very accurate.
January 29, 2008
love love love this book. maybe because it's all about what i want to do career-wise. ;)
April 7, 2011
I'm so grateful this book was written.
July 16, 2011
I am so grateful for this book for providing me with the context of what my son is experiencing right now. People need to know about these programs. We are saving my son's life.
Read
January 2, 2013Great book of hope and a different way to deal with troubled teens.
June 24, 2014
Great book about the healing power of the wilderness.......
May 18, 2015
very insightful. The guides are inspiring, the work they do is amazing and hopeful
March 2, 2016
Book about wilderness therapy program
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2016
Made me wistful of my Outward Bound days. Well written. More necessary than ever. I still firmly believe in the wilderness as tonic for our youth.
July 28, 2023
wonderful book. made me a bit sentimental for the good old days of wilderness (well, some parts of it). reading this in the woods was a good reminder of the big picture for our kids, and offered something of a surrender to the process: we don't necessarily know why wilderness works (though we have some guesses) -- but we can see that it really is transformative.
February 6, 2019
I read this for my Wilderness Therapy class for my Outdoor Leadership degree. Ferguson is an amazing writer and I thought that the book was an amazing way to look into Wilderness Therapy and the points he gets across. I highly suggest reading it even if it is just for fun!
November 17, 2020
Felt a bit dated and whitewashed to me. Hardly a mention of actual theory backing the treatment sector and no mention of the cost prohibitive nature of these programs. A view of the realities of the industry through rose colored lenses.
September 26, 2018
Good first person look at wilderness therapy programs.
July 10, 2023
Powerful narrative of what happens in the field. Slightly different from family members experience, but gives members who are not there an idea of what the experiences are.
January 6, 2016
This is a thought-provoking look at the wilderness programs designed to help troubled teens. Having worked in this area for five years when I ran Utah’s Human Services, I was eager to get an inside look through this guy’s perspective. He goes out with the wilderness groups and works with the youth in their day-to-day experience. “It’s untidy as hell, loose ends lying all over the place. In truth we may never know why eating beans out of a bill can or making a bow-drill fire can bring comfort, why on one particular rainy morning a carpet of desert phlox, the sound of a mourning dove, would bring a kid to tears. Why a stray comment made on the side of a mountain can change a life, can root and grow in what a month before seemed like sterile soil. A lot of the good that goes on in a program like this seems due less to the application of existing theory than to a mixed bag of tactics and intuitive strategies, hand delivered by a slightly freaky bunch of mentors, in a place a thousand miles beyond the frenzy of the culture at large.” I have known some people who worked in these programs, and a few who attended them. I have known Juvenile Court Judges who love and hate them. Say what you will, they work for some. And I am a huge believer in the redemptive power of nature, for nature’s sake.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews