We Became Wild is an evocative, emotionally charged novel that blends coming-of-age elements with a strong sense of atmosphere and underlying tension.

Set against a vividly drawn natural backdrop, the story follows characters navigating a transformative period in their lives, where freedom and uncertainty go hand in hand. The setting plays a central role, with the wildness of the environment mirroring the emotional intensity and unpredictability of the characters’ experiences.

One of the novel’s strongest elements is its exploration of friendship and identity. As relationships shift and deepen, the narrative captures the push and pull between belonging and independence. A particularly compelling thread involves moments where impulsive choices and shared experiences begin to shape who the characters are becoming, often in ways they don’t fully understand at the time.

The writing is immersive and reflective, allowing the emotional weight of the story to build gradually. There’s a steady sense of tension beneath the surface, giving even quieter scenes a feeling of significance.

Overall, We Became Wild is a thoughtful and engaging read that balances atmosphere with character-driven storytelling. It’s a great choice for readers who enjoy stories about growth, connection, and the lasting impact of formative moments.

Told with an unflinching teenage vibe in multiple POVs, this is a story of grief, friendship, regrets, abuse, love, and searching. When Val dies from a 30-foot cliff fall, her friends Messina and Lottie suddenly decide they will honor her memory and take her along (via her ashes) on a PCT hike to the Three Sisters mountains in Oregon. Val had planned a PCT hike after reading Cheryl Strayed's Wild, so the friends--both living in abusive home situations--escape their families and hit the trail, woefully unprepared. Val's brother Gabe, who is in love with Lottie, figures out what has happened and sets off in his old truck, hoping to intercept the two friends at an intersate-crossing to hike with them. Not pulling a punch, the author describes the hell the girls experience on the trail, including severe dehydration and hunger, in-fighting, worry for safety from wild animals and other humans, dealing with periods in the wild, and more. As the girls weave their way through the miles, they must find strength they never knew they had, forgiveness for the seemingly unforgiveable, skills to take into the next stages of their lives, and a future that will honor themselves and their lost friend.

a really cool YA type of book about grief and going out into the wild. Lottie's best friend Val dies, and she decides to go out into the wild to cope. Finished this in a single sitting. it was great!