The Story

Percy and his friends are all set for a relaxing canoe trip and camping adventure in the woods of New Brunswick. Their plans go up in smoke, literally, when a massive forest fire breaks out. Running for their lives, they get separated from their guide and most of their supplies.

Just when things look bleak, they find shelter in a strange, isolated house. It's fully furnished but clearly deserted. As they explore, they find odd clues: a collection of peculiar minerals, scientific equipment, and a diary written by the former occupant, a man obsessed with a local legend about hidden treasure. The diary entries get weirder and more frantic, suggesting the man's search drove him to madness or worse.

Now, the boys have a new problem. The fire is circling back, cutting off their escape. And they start to feel like they're not alone in the house. They have to piece together the journal's clues and the legend's truth if they want to survive both the inferno outside and the unsettling mystery within.

Why You Should Read It

Don't let the 19th-century publication date fool you. This book moves. De Mille writes a tight adventure that feels surprisingly modern in its pacing. The fire is a constant, terrifying presence—you can almost feel the heat and smell the smoke. The survival details are gripping.

What I loved most was the shift. Just when you think it's a straight man-vs-nature tale, it becomes a spooky mystery. The abandoned house is a fantastic setting, and the found journal is a classic, creepy device done really well. Percy is a relatable lead—scared but trying to be brave, curious even when he shouldn't be. It’s a great mix of outdoor adventure and Gothic chills.

Final Verdict

This is a hidden gem for readers who enjoy classic adventure with a side of mystery. It's perfect for a rainy afternoon or a camping trip (maybe not while actually in the woods!). If you liked the survival aspects of books like 'The Hatchet' but wish they had a ghost story twist, you'll dig this. It's also a fascinating look at early Canadian literature. The language is clear and easy to follow, so it's great for teens and adults alike who want a suspenseful, quick read that proves some stories are truly timeless.