13 Moons

A gripping survival story inspired by true events—perfect for fans of the Hatchet series and historical adventure.

It's 1856 in Wabasha in the Wisconsin Territory. Thirteen-year-old George Campbell is caught between two worlds – his fur-trader father's European ways and his Ojibwe mother's distant homeland. Feeling invisible and restless, George makes a daring decision: he'll hide on his father's riverboat and travel to Thunder Bay to find the mother he barely remembers.

But when the boat is attacked and George is left stranded in the wilderness, his quest for family becomes a fight for survival. Alone with only his wits and determination, George must navigate a year of harsh seasons, dangerous encounters, and the rugged landscape of the Minnesota Territory. Along the way, he'll discover who he truly is—and what it means to belong.

Based on the author Brad Wright’s great-grandfather's life, 13 Moons is a powerful coming-of-age tale that explores identity, resilience, and the courage it takes to forge your own path. Structured around the Dakota thirteen-moon cycle and the four sacred directions, this meticulously researched novel brings to life a pivotal era in North American history and one boy's extraordinary journey.

Perfect for readers ages 10 to 14 who love historical fiction, survival adventures, and stories of self-discovery.

Brad Wright lives in Culver City, CA with his wife, his son, and JiJi the very sleepy calico cat. Brad manages the technology department and teaches robotics, programming, and design at a Pre-K to 8th grade school in Los Angeles. Brad based 13 Moons on his great-grandfather, George Campbell, whose life has always fascinated him.