The US Review of Books praised Skip Ashworth’s “Josh and the Skeleton: Christmas Eve Discovery” because the “writing is clear, and the story is well-paced”

Mark Heisey from the US Review of Books applauded Skip Ashworth’s “Josh and the Skeleton: Christmas Eve Discovery”, stating that the author “creates an interesting tale with engaging characters and a nice mix of ghost story, outdoor adventure, and personal development. There are hints of Jack London in the storytelling, and readers familiar with Gary Paulsen’s work will find a home in this book. The writing is clear, and the story is well-paced.”

For forty (40) years, award-winning educator and coach Skip Ashworth has worked with children from fifth grade through college. He created his own Oklahoma history course and traveled for two weeks with his students all around the state. He (Skip) enjoys exploring and engaging in the Chickasaw culture with his wife, who is part of Chickasaw.

“Josh and the Skeleton: Christmas Eve Discovery” is a story of confronting one’s biggest fears. Josh gulped hard, trying to catch his breath. What’s that, boy? Flash barked but didn’t look back at his master. I don’t remember seeing that truck there before now. Flash’s curiosity finally took over, and he sprinted toward the snow-covered blue pickup. The door windows were down, and the front windshield was shattered into a sea-green mosaic of a thousand pieces. Is that what I think it is, Flash? Is that a bone hanging out of the window?

Even though Christmas is almost approaching, Josh, Caroline, and Grandma don’t feel particularly festive. The siblings’ grandparents raised them, but with Grandpa’s recent death, the family isn’t feeling as joyful as usual. Josh can’t help but hurry outside to explore the snow with his dog, Flash, even though it isn’t typical for Oklahoma to see such a heavy snowfall.

Josh and Flash soon find themselves in a ravine on a portion of the old Cheyenne campground despite having been advised not to go there. At this point, Josh starts to hear unsettling noises and finds a truck that has a human skeleton inside of it. Josh and Flash rush home in fear, and Josh is unsure whether or not to notify anyone. Even worse, it appears that the noises followed Josh home.

Here’s an excerpt from the US Review of Books that highlights:

“At times, there is an over-abundance of descriptors or a slightly awkward analogy, but, overall, the setting and characters are realistically portrayed. Ashworth really shines in nailing the appropriate tone and vocabulary for the upper elementary/lower middle-grade readers he targets. This book should be a great addition to the libraries found in those schools, and it would be a good gift to give to those who enjoy outdoor adventures. It is particularly well-suited to the reluctant male reader who steers clear of lengthy reads.“