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One Wrong Step
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen comes a brand-new, spine-tingling adventure about two kids and their fight for survival on the unforgiving trails of Mount Everest. Jennifer Nielsen's storytelling climbs to new heights in this epic about loss, letting go, and the most important lesson a climber can where the eye goes, a person follows.
For a climber, letting go means certain death. For Atlas, it means something even worse. But he'll have to learn how to let go and look up if he ever wants to see the top...
Twelve-year-old Atlas Wade has been trying to forget the memory of his mother by climbing mountains ever since she died when he was nine years old. When his father signs them up for an expedition group hoping to be the first to ever summit the unconquerable Mount Everest, Atlas can't wait for the chance to prove himself to his father, and maybe finally he can leave his mother behind him on the mountain.
But this time, Atlas is the one left behind, as well as a young American girl named Maddie and their sturdy yet injured Sherpa, Chodak. When news breaks out that war has returned to Europe, and that Nazis are attempting their own summit dangerously nearby, Atlas and Maddie plead with the expedition to come back down.
Their warnings come too late. Atlas looks up that same morning to see an avalanche and when they receive no word from the group, Maddie and Chodak join Atlas as he begins a dangerous journey up the mountain in the hopes of finding survivors.
Atlas, Maddie, and Chodak will have to rely not just on their own wits for survival, but on each other as well, especially as sickness, bad weather, and their fears of a Nazi spy watching them puts their mission -- and lives -- at risk in the brutal terrain. And Atlas will have to learn how to let go if he wants any chance of finding his father and fixing the rift between them caused by his mother's death, before it's too late.
Using one of the world's greatest -- and most infamous -- mountains as a backdrop, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen's storytelling climbs to new heights in this touching, thrilling epic about grief, letting go, and the bonds that keep us alive.
For a climber, letting go means certain death. For Atlas, it means something even worse. But he'll have to learn how to let go and look up if he ever wants to see the top...
Twelve-year-old Atlas Wade has been trying to forget the memory of his mother by climbing mountains ever since she died when he was nine years old. When his father signs them up for an expedition group hoping to be the first to ever summit the unconquerable Mount Everest, Atlas can't wait for the chance to prove himself to his father, and maybe finally he can leave his mother behind him on the mountain.
But this time, Atlas is the one left behind, as well as a young American girl named Maddie and their sturdy yet injured Sherpa, Chodak. When news breaks out that war has returned to Europe, and that Nazis are attempting their own summit dangerously nearby, Atlas and Maddie plead with the expedition to come back down.
Their warnings come too late. Atlas looks up that same morning to see an avalanche and when they receive no word from the group, Maddie and Chodak join Atlas as he begins a dangerous journey up the mountain in the hopes of finding survivors.
Atlas, Maddie, and Chodak will have to rely not just on their own wits for survival, but on each other as well, especially as sickness, bad weather, and their fears of a Nazi spy watching them puts their mission -- and lives -- at risk in the brutal terrain. And Atlas will have to learn how to let go if he wants any chance of finding his father and fixing the rift between them caused by his mother's death, before it's too late.
Using one of the world's greatest -- and most infamous -- mountains as a backdrop, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen's storytelling climbs to new heights in this touching, thrilling epic about grief, letting go, and the bonds that keep us alive.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published March 4, 2025
143 people are currently reading
1241 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer A. Nielsen
53 books9,425 followersJennifer lives at the base of a very tall mountain in Northern Utah with her husband, three children, and a naughty puppy. She loves the smell of rainy days, hot chocolate, and old books, preferably all at once. She is a former speech teacher, theater director, and enjoyed a brief but disastrous career as a door-to-door pollster. In her spare time, Jennifer tends to panic, wondering what she has forgotten to do that has allowed her any spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
April 20, 2025
This heart-pounding read will have you gasping for oxygen as you climb Everest alongside Atlas and Maddie, learning the hard way that danger is just one step away.
I felt like I was climbing RIGHT NEXT to our main characters, Atlas and Maddie. I know very little about mountain climbing and don't aspire to climb Mt. Everest because I feel like I just climbed it through the pages of One Wrong Step.
This book was paces so well! I mean basically all they did for the majority of the book was climb a big rock. And yet, in great Jennifer Nielsen fashion, I was GLUED to the pages.
That being said, I didn't love the ending... I felt a little misled that but I did like that But I was mostly bummed that Atlas and Maddie I thought there was really good potential for their friendship and that's another note. I don't feel like their friendship was fleshed out as much as it could've been. I personally wanted to know more about Maddie and see their friendship bloom a little more.
The flashback at times annoyed me but they were also so well timed and release the perfect amount of information that added to the story.
I thought Atlas's character was AMAZING. His arc was so well done and you really felt right alongside him. I loved him.
Nielsen does it again with another fabulous book!!
Content: Not much... a good amount of talk about death, injuries, and sickness, while climbing since all of those are prevalent. Nothing gory, but some characters get frostbite, hypothermia, are hospitalized, etc. Atlas' mother died before the story starts and he has to emotionally work through that throughout the story. No romance.
✨ 4.5 Stars ✨
I felt like I was climbing RIGHT NEXT to our main characters, Atlas and Maddie. I know very little about mountain climbing and don't aspire to climb Mt. Everest because I feel like I just climbed it through the pages of One Wrong Step.
This book was paces so well! I mean basically all they did for the majority of the book was climb a big rock. And yet, in great Jennifer Nielsen fashion, I was GLUED to the pages.
That being said, I didn't love the ending... I felt a little misled that but I did like that But I was mostly bummed that Atlas and Maddie I thought there was really good potential for their friendship and that's another note. I don't feel like their friendship was fleshed out as much as it could've been. I personally wanted to know more about Maddie and see their friendship bloom a little more.
The flashback at times annoyed me but they were also so well timed and release the perfect amount of information that added to the story.
I thought Atlas's character was AMAZING. His arc was so well done and you really felt right alongside him. I loved him.
Nielsen does it again with another fabulous book!!
Content: Not much... a good amount of talk about death, injuries, and sickness, while climbing since all of those are prevalent. Nothing gory, but some characters get frostbite, hypothermia, are hospitalized, etc. Atlas' mother died before the story starts and he has to emotionally work through that throughout the story. No romance.
✨ 4.5 Stars ✨
March 20, 2025
"'Are we in danger?'
'We're on Everest.... Of course we're in danger.'"
✏️ Review ✏️
Of all the Jennifer A. Nielsen historical fiction books I've read, One Wrong Step comes across as the most unrealistic. But don't get me wrong; we wouldn't want to take a wrong step here! It's still an enjoyable story, but leans more towards the side of being unbelievable — how likely is it that two teens would be climbing Mount Everest alone right before World War II? Ok, yeah, it's fiction after all, so let's set that behind us (for the time being 😉) and summit our way to the end of this review. :-)
The writing style is typical Nielsen: streamlined and straightforward but descriptive enough to add enjoyable energies.
While they're not very deep or developed, the characters are still nicely presented during the story's progression. I did like how the MMC had a bit of a backstory that allowed for some internal conflicts and a bit of dynamic development. But on the other hand, the FMC is a flat and static character, so she's sorta just in the story as a convenient climbing companion for Atlas, the MMC.
The plot does require many suspensions of belief. The most notable being the fact that two teens (one with some experience, the other none) summit a large portion of Mount Everest by themselves. And mountain climbing requires a rigorous amount of endurance training — the FMC has had none and yet she's able to summit three-fourths of Everest just fine (besides some coughing and shortness of breath). Possible in the real world? Absolutely not. Possible in fiction? Yeah, I suppose.... The rest of the plot is average: somewhat predictable and a bit too fast paced to be realistic. There were events that took me by surprise and kept me flipping the pages, but nothing super unexpected.
What's saving One Wrong Step from being a two-star read for me are the themes Nielsen has weaved throughout the story. Navigating the road of grief, emphasizing the strengths found in connections and relationships with others, highlighting the importance of team work, and illustrating that it's okay to ask for help when you need it — all of these themes are aptly and metaphorically presented during the characters' mountain climb, adding an important dimension to the story.
While it isn't the most realistic read, One Wrong Step still delivers an enjoyable, educational, and meaningful story about summiting Mount Everest — and the figurative mountains that we encounter in our own lives.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The themes — they are metaphorically and meaningfully weaved into the story.
• The MMC — he features internal and the most dynamic development of all the characters.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The unrealistic aspects of the plot — requires some suspension of belief.
• The FMC — she's a flat and static character.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes*
— To whom? To those who enjoy extreme adventures and who would like to learn various aspects of mountain climbing and some facts about Mount Everest while enjoying a good story. And if you don't mind fiction that leans more on the side of being unrealistic. Definitely suited better for middle grade readers (typically ages 8-12).
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 2.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 2.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• There is a one-page scene in which the MCs partake in a ceremony to receive permission to climb Mount Everest from the "Mountain Gods." The characters are described as eating a ceremonial cracker and sitting in a circle watching incense and wood being burned to these gods. Also, the monastery's monks are described as blessing the climbers' gear and chanting and praying to these gods.
• Maddie, the FMC, talks a few times about how her mother has premonitions. Because of a premonition she had in which Maddie was in danger at home, Maddie's mother has sent her to Mount Everest so that Maddie will avoid the disastrous results of that premonition.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• "All those who serve others are heroes." (p. 318)
'We're on Everest.... Of course we're in danger.'"
✏️ Review ✏️
Of all the Jennifer A. Nielsen historical fiction books I've read, One Wrong Step comes across as the most unrealistic. But don't get me wrong; we wouldn't want to take a wrong step here! It's still an enjoyable story, but leans more towards the side of being unbelievable — how likely is it that two teens would be climbing Mount Everest alone right before World War II? Ok, yeah, it's fiction after all, so let's set that behind us (for the time being 😉) and summit our way to the end of this review. :-)
The writing style is typical Nielsen: streamlined and straightforward but descriptive enough to add enjoyable energies.
"'It may feel as though you're as high as you'll ever be, but we're only just beginning. Once [we reach camp], we'll still have nearly eight thousand vertical feet to the summit. Imagine climbing a building that is eighty stories tall.'
'A building where the staircase is constantly hit by blizzards and high winds, and drop-offs to sheer cliffs.'"
While they're not very deep or developed, the characters are still nicely presented during the story's progression. I did like how the MMC had a bit of a backstory that allowed for some internal conflicts and a bit of dynamic development. But on the other hand, the FMC is a flat and static character, so she's sorta just in the story as a convenient climbing companion for Atlas, the MMC.
The plot does require many suspensions of belief. The most notable being the fact that two teens (one with some experience, the other none) summit a large portion of Mount Everest by themselves. And mountain climbing requires a rigorous amount of endurance training — the FMC has had none and yet she's able to summit three-fourths of Everest just fine (besides some coughing and shortness of breath). Possible in the real world? Absolutely not. Possible in fiction? Yeah, I suppose.... The rest of the plot is average: somewhat predictable and a bit too fast paced to be realistic. There were events that took me by surprise and kept me flipping the pages, but nothing super unexpected.
What's saving One Wrong Step from being a two-star read for me are the themes Nielsen has weaved throughout the story. Navigating the road of grief, emphasizing the strengths found in connections and relationships with others, highlighting the importance of team work, and illustrating that it's okay to ask for help when you need it — all of these themes are aptly and metaphorically presented during the characters' mountain climb, adding an important dimension to the story.
While it isn't the most realistic read, One Wrong Step still delivers an enjoyable, educational, and meaningful story about summiting Mount Everest — and the figurative mountains that we encounter in our own lives.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The themes — they are metaphorically and meaningfully weaved into the story.
• The MMC — he features internal and the most dynamic development of all the characters.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The unrealistic aspects of the plot — requires some suspension of belief.
• The FMC — she's a flat and static character.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes*
— To whom? To those who enjoy extreme adventures and who would like to learn various aspects of mountain climbing and some facts about Mount Everest while enjoying a good story. And if you don't mind fiction that leans more on the side of being unrealistic. Definitely suited better for middle grade readers (typically ages 8-12).
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 2.5/5
— 📝 Writing: 3/5
— 👥 Characters: 2.5/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• There is a one-page scene in which the MCs partake in a ceremony to receive permission to climb Mount Everest from the "Mountain Gods." The characters are described as eating a ceremonial cracker and sitting in a circle watching incense and wood being burned to these gods. Also, the monastery's monks are described as blessing the climbers' gear and chanting and praying to these gods.
• Maddie, the FMC, talks a few times about how her mother has premonitions. Because of a premonition she had in which Maddie was in danger at home, Maddie's mother has sent her to Mount Everest so that Maddie will avoid the disastrous results of that premonition.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• "All those who serve others are heroes." (p. 318)
August 3, 2025
Jennifer Nielsen has done it again! Amazing!
November 7, 2024
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“My dad always says that where a person looks, their feet will follow.
As long as we keep our eyes on the summit, one day someone is certain to reach it.”
Still coming down from the high of Jennifer Nielsen's Ascendance series urged me to check out her upcoming middle-grade historical fiction release a part coming-of-age, part the daring adventure of rescue & personal growth of fourteen-year-old Atlas Wade atop Mount Everest. 🧗🗻
Exhilarating and adventurous, but also heartwarming and touching. It is the brave and daring journey of how Atlas has to brave his own fears of letting go of a past of regret and sadness in order for him to move on. It is an emotional climb, one which has him test his own endurance and his own willpower of scaling mountains that exist not only in his heart, but what he faces in the form of the highest peak of the world - the Goddess of the Earth - Mt. Everest where 'even a small mistake on Everest can be deadly.' 😨 And while it simply is an expedition of which his father regretfully refuses to include his son alongside him, the tide of the mountain is as unpredictable as it is treacherous - how One Wrong Step can be the deciding factor of life or death. For when his father and his team go missing after sending out a cry for help, it is up to him and Maddie Pierson, a young American girl whose father accompanied him on the trek, to find a way to save them. 😟
For in 1939, with the threat of World World II breaking the airwaves, it is not much to wonder if the slopes of the Himalayas would interest anyone to climb for prestige and honor, when war is on the rise. But, for some there is also the threat of a Nazi presence amidst the icy winds and frozen terrain that strikes a fear in all present. 😥 It is that deciding factor that either hinders or spurs them into quicker desperation to save the lives and even be distrustful of any unsuspecting person, before an unwitting threat strike - 'when everything in life blurs, survival becomes a matter of instinct.' It clings to Atlas and thwarts his sense and battles his nerves of wit and grit. For to Atlas, it is not only a mission to save the only living relative he has, but to also find a way to take a step forward - to unseal the heart that he has frozen off to life and time after his mother's death - to find it within himself to be brave to take a risk to trust himself and move forward without regret and find an inner peace within himself. 😟
“You are looking in the wrong direction.”
His grief and heartache over his mother's death was visceral and in a way, his driving force to succeed. To truly climb the impossible - surpass the limits of his own expectations. because he was avoiding not only letting go of that guilt and sadness, but finding it himself to forgive his father for feelings left unspoken. It is that delicate balance of emotional strength and his own physical skills of scaling the mountains and risking life and limb that makes Atlas a relatable character who fights his way to triumph over the challenges he faces. 'I have to see this through, no matter what.' 😥 He and Maddie also made an interesting duo, but one that built a relationship of trust and well, not really friends - but two souls who had to work to survive and save the ones they loved. Even though she shouldered her own burdens, Maddie was levelheaded and honest; she was the outsider perspective Atlas needed for him to better understand whatever demons were still holding onto him and help him let go of that pain and shame. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“How beautiful it was, but how cruel, to beckon climbers to its trails over and over again, teasing them with hope, then trading it for disappointment, or even tragedy.”
The writing did a great job in capturing the daunting feel of Everest; there is nothing more majestic than seeing a mountain with its steep slopes that mindfully taunts - You’ve come close enough. Any step farther is at your own risk.' ⛰️ And Nielsen does not shy away in showing how treacherous it is - how any misstep or miscalculation can be everything - how you have to stay quick on your feet - be mindful of your health - be respectful of your team - don't be afraid to ask for help for up here - 'the greatest danger is not a Nazi. It’s you pretending you know what you are doing.' 🥺 Time is off the essence and the hurdles they faced on their trek were captured in a gripping and enthralling manner that also happily fit the age gap it was targeted for. My heart hurt also learning about George Mallory, a tragedy that even now sparks speculation and intrigue - one that once again reminds us how helpless we are at the powers and forces not in our control. 😞
A few notes of complaint that made it less of a stellar read was the transitions of past events interspersed in between that affected the flow of the narrative. I do get the necessity of it, I just wish it could have been approached differently. The Nazi subplot - I think it was a creative and unique approach, a bit hard to believe at times and it did detract from the seriousness of their plight at times; but given the time period, it kinda works. If not for its inclusion, it really would have simply been an adventure story - give or take. 🤔 The ending also lacked a bit of an epilogue, which I think would have tied it a little together - just a bit better.
Of course, one will argue that Atlas and Maddie did treat certain life-threatening moments with a certain levity that definitely would not pass at that moment in real life. But, as Chodak wisely reasoned - 'Sometimes, when things are at their worst, it must be okay to smile. It helps us to survive.' If even the simple courage of making light of the moment of despair gave either of them strength, then who am I to argue. 🫂 But, I did feel it was a bit unfair that Maddie seemed to be made of stronger grit than Atlas - sorta like an American to English dynamic, which is an absurd thing to point out, but yeah, I didn't like it. But, given how fixated Atlas was, I guess, he had to break off that part that was holding him down, in order for him to rise up again. So, bygones. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
I may have stumbled along the way, doubted a few steps in which the story turn, took a leap of faith for certain characters, and eventually came out on top believing that both Atlas and I would survive. Okay, that was a lame mountain pun! 😭 But, yes, this was an enjoyable read with a few bumps, but still definitely worth the read. It leaves you feeling inspired to scale your own mountain; that no matter if life seems like it's too much - just don't let go. One step forward and you'll find your way to the top. 🙏🏻
And if after I read this I went and listened to Miley Cyrus' 'Climb', then nobody's the wiser. 😊
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
“My dad always says that where a person looks, their feet will follow.
As long as we keep our eyes on the summit, one day someone is certain to reach it.”
Still coming down from the high of Jennifer Nielsen's Ascendance series urged me to check out her upcoming middle-grade historical fiction release a part coming-of-age, part the daring adventure of rescue & personal growth of fourteen-year-old Atlas Wade atop Mount Everest. 🧗🗻
Exhilarating and adventurous, but also heartwarming and touching. It is the brave and daring journey of how Atlas has to brave his own fears of letting go of a past of regret and sadness in order for him to move on. It is an emotional climb, one which has him test his own endurance and his own willpower of scaling mountains that exist not only in his heart, but what he faces in the form of the highest peak of the world - the Goddess of the Earth - Mt. Everest where 'even a small mistake on Everest can be deadly.' 😨 And while it simply is an expedition of which his father regretfully refuses to include his son alongside him, the tide of the mountain is as unpredictable as it is treacherous - how One Wrong Step can be the deciding factor of life or death. For when his father and his team go missing after sending out a cry for help, it is up to him and Maddie Pierson, a young American girl whose father accompanied him on the trek, to find a way to save them. 😟
For in 1939, with the threat of World World II breaking the airwaves, it is not much to wonder if the slopes of the Himalayas would interest anyone to climb for prestige and honor, when war is on the rise. But, for some there is also the threat of a Nazi presence amidst the icy winds and frozen terrain that strikes a fear in all present. 😥 It is that deciding factor that either hinders or spurs them into quicker desperation to save the lives and even be distrustful of any unsuspecting person, before an unwitting threat strike - 'when everything in life blurs, survival becomes a matter of instinct.' It clings to Atlas and thwarts his sense and battles his nerves of wit and grit. For to Atlas, it is not only a mission to save the only living relative he has, but to also find a way to take a step forward - to unseal the heart that he has frozen off to life and time after his mother's death - to find it within himself to be brave to take a risk to trust himself and move forward without regret and find an inner peace within himself. 😟
“You are looking in the wrong direction.”
His grief and heartache over his mother's death was visceral and in a way, his driving force to succeed. To truly climb the impossible - surpass the limits of his own expectations. because he was avoiding not only letting go of that guilt and sadness, but finding it himself to forgive his father for feelings left unspoken. It is that delicate balance of emotional strength and his own physical skills of scaling the mountains and risking life and limb that makes Atlas a relatable character who fights his way to triumph over the challenges he faces. 'I have to see this through, no matter what.' 😥 He and Maddie also made an interesting duo, but one that built a relationship of trust and well, not really friends - but two souls who had to work to survive and save the ones they loved. Even though she shouldered her own burdens, Maddie was levelheaded and honest; she was the outsider perspective Atlas needed for him to better understand whatever demons were still holding onto him and help him let go of that pain and shame. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
“How beautiful it was, but how cruel, to beckon climbers to its trails over and over again, teasing them with hope, then trading it for disappointment, or even tragedy.”
The writing did a great job in capturing the daunting feel of Everest; there is nothing more majestic than seeing a mountain with its steep slopes that mindfully taunts - You’ve come close enough. Any step farther is at your own risk.' ⛰️ And Nielsen does not shy away in showing how treacherous it is - how any misstep or miscalculation can be everything - how you have to stay quick on your feet - be mindful of your health - be respectful of your team - don't be afraid to ask for help for up here - 'the greatest danger is not a Nazi. It’s you pretending you know what you are doing.' 🥺 Time is off the essence and the hurdles they faced on their trek were captured in a gripping and enthralling manner that also happily fit the age gap it was targeted for. My heart hurt also learning about George Mallory, a tragedy that even now sparks speculation and intrigue - one that once again reminds us how helpless we are at the powers and forces not in our control. 😞
A few notes of complaint that made it less of a stellar read was the transitions of past events interspersed in between that affected the flow of the narrative. I do get the necessity of it, I just wish it could have been approached differently. The Nazi subplot - I think it was a creative and unique approach, a bit hard to believe at times and it did detract from the seriousness of their plight at times; but given the time period, it kinda works. If not for its inclusion, it really would have simply been an adventure story - give or take. 🤔 The ending also lacked a bit of an epilogue, which I think would have tied it a little together - just a bit better.
Of course, one will argue that Atlas and Maddie did treat certain life-threatening moments with a certain levity that definitely would not pass at that moment in real life. But, as Chodak wisely reasoned - 'Sometimes, when things are at their worst, it must be okay to smile. It helps us to survive.' If even the simple courage of making light of the moment of despair gave either of them strength, then who am I to argue. 🫂 But, I did feel it was a bit unfair that Maddie seemed to be made of stronger grit than Atlas - sorta like an American to English dynamic, which is an absurd thing to point out, but yeah, I didn't like it. But, given how fixated Atlas was, I guess, he had to break off that part that was holding him down, in order for him to rise up again. So, bygones. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
I may have stumbled along the way, doubted a few steps in which the story turn, took a leap of faith for certain characters, and eventually came out on top believing that both Atlas and I would survive. Okay, that was a lame mountain pun! 😭 But, yes, this was an enjoyable read with a few bumps, but still definitely worth the read. It leaves you feeling inspired to scale your own mountain; that no matter if life seems like it's too much - just don't let go. One step forward and you'll find your way to the top. 🙏🏻
And if after I read this I went and listened to Miley Cyrus' 'Climb', then nobody's the wiser. 😊
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2025
Out of all of Nielsen's books, this is the most "meh" for me.
The idea was there, but I don't think Nielsen was the one to execute it. Maybe someone like Gary Paulsen could have made a neat survival/adventure story out of it...but Jennifer is a historical fiction/fantasy writer through and through. :) The historical part of it felt like an afterthought. I didn't think that the WWII setting really fit with the story. For one thing, how many kids were named Atlas in the 1930s? Also, the writing style and themes felt distinctly contemporary, which only added to the off-balance feeling. Finally, it felt a little unrealistic that two pretty inexperienced teens could summit more than three-fourths of Everest on their own when not even experienced climbers had reached the top.
There were also some weird moments with the monks where they are praying to/having ceremonies for their mountain gods.
As far as what I liked...I enjoyed learning a little about Mount Everest and climbing. Also, the maps that show Atlas' progress are nice. :)
Overall, this book would probably be ok for a younger middle-grade reader who just wants adventure and doesn't care too much about character development, believability, etc.
The idea was there, but I don't think Nielsen was the one to execute it. Maybe someone like Gary Paulsen could have made a neat survival/adventure story out of it...but Jennifer is a historical fiction/fantasy writer through and through. :) The historical part of it felt like an afterthought. I didn't think that the WWII setting really fit with the story. For one thing, how many kids were named Atlas in the 1930s? Also, the writing style and themes felt distinctly contemporary, which only added to the off-balance feeling. Finally, it felt a little unrealistic that two pretty inexperienced teens could summit more than three-fourths of Everest on their own when not even experienced climbers had reached the top.
There were also some weird moments with the monks where they are praying to/having ceremonies for their mountain gods.
As far as what I liked...I enjoyed learning a little about Mount Everest and climbing. Also, the maps that show Atlas' progress are nice. :)
Overall, this book would probably be ok for a younger middle-grade reader who just wants adventure and doesn't care too much about character development, believability, etc.
April 1, 2025
First of all, thank you to @netgalley for sending me an ARC copy of One Wrong Step by Jennifer A. Nielsen. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high stakes book about two young teens climbing Mount Everest, this is the perfect book for you or the young readers in your life.
I enjoyed this book. It was gripping and raw just like Jennifer A. Nielsen’s other stories. Although there is less of a focus on historical World War II, Nielsen keeps the story gripping with the life and death moments shared by the two main characters, Atlas and Maddie. The book felt a little slow at times but Nielsen certainly uses plot twists to keep the reader hooked.
The friendship between Maddie and Atlas was touching! I loved how they grew to like each other and due to circumstances, they had to fully depend on their friendship to stay alive. It was remarkable really!
Next, I loved Atlas’ personal triumphs. At the risk of sharing spoilers, I can’t say much more, but I related to Atlas greatly and he inspired me to climb my own hurdles and mountains. The end of the story was extremely touching and even bittersweet. The ending suited the book well.
All in all, this book is perfect for young readers who like climbing, have an interest in Mount Everest, or just want an action-packed book. I’d highly suggest this to homeschool parents who want to integrate history into their children’s literature curriculum!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
CW: mentions of premonitions, references to Buddhist religion, death, life and death stakes, grief
I enjoyed this book. It was gripping and raw just like Jennifer A. Nielsen’s other stories. Although there is less of a focus on historical World War II, Nielsen keeps the story gripping with the life and death moments shared by the two main characters, Atlas and Maddie. The book felt a little slow at times but Nielsen certainly uses plot twists to keep the reader hooked.
The friendship between Maddie and Atlas was touching! I loved how they grew to like each other and due to circumstances, they had to fully depend on their friendship to stay alive. It was remarkable really!
Next, I loved Atlas’ personal triumphs. At the risk of sharing spoilers, I can’t say much more, but I related to Atlas greatly and he inspired me to climb my own hurdles and mountains. The end of the story was extremely touching and even bittersweet. The ending suited the book well.
All in all, this book is perfect for young readers who like climbing, have an interest in Mount Everest, or just want an action-packed book. I’d highly suggest this to homeschool parents who want to integrate history into their children’s literature curriculum!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
CW: mentions of premonitions, references to Buddhist religion, death, life and death stakes, grief
April 2, 2025
This book was really good!!! I loved reading Jennifer A. Nielsen’s books when i was younger so when i found out that she wrote a new one I just had to read it! She will forever be one of my favorite childhood authors! I remember she once did a zoom call with my class talking about her books! Anyways, I really enjoyed reading this book! It really kept me on my toes hoping that whatever would happen next would be good!
April 5, 2025
It has been a while since I've read or listened to a book written by Jennifer. So, I was really excited to jump into One Wrong Step.
In this, you will meet Atlas and Maddie. Together, they are climbing Mount Everest. Well, not by themselves. They are with an expedition group... because why not? Well, at one point, they are both left behind with an injured Sherpa. If it sounds random as hell, it is.
The cherry on top of this little situation? Oh, well, war has returned to Europe. So, hello WWII. While trying to figure out how to survive and find a way back alive, they also have to outmaneuver the Nazis. Again, two teenagers and an injured adult have to do this.
Now these three go through so much. Avalanches, sickness, and constantly looking over your shoulders for the bad guys. We were all tired from the adventure. Them for actually living through it and me reading what they went through. Trauma bonding at its finest.
As for the characters, they were okay. I honestly don't think I had a favorite. They were interesting though. Mostly because some things just felt a bit ridiculous or off to me. Since I've never been on a mountain or an adventure like this, I will just accept what happened.
In the end, it was an easy book to listen to, and I ended up liking it.
In this, you will meet Atlas and Maddie. Together, they are climbing Mount Everest. Well, not by themselves. They are with an expedition group... because why not? Well, at one point, they are both left behind with an injured Sherpa. If it sounds random as hell, it is.
The cherry on top of this little situation? Oh, well, war has returned to Europe. So, hello WWII. While trying to figure out how to survive and find a way back alive, they also have to outmaneuver the Nazis. Again, two teenagers and an injured adult have to do this.
Now these three go through so much. Avalanches, sickness, and constantly looking over your shoulders for the bad guys. We were all tired from the adventure. Them for actually living through it and me reading what they went through. Trauma bonding at its finest.
As for the characters, they were okay. I honestly don't think I had a favorite. They were interesting though. Mostly because some things just felt a bit ridiculous or off to me. Since I've never been on a mountain or an adventure like this, I will just accept what happened.
In the end, it was an easy book to listen to, and I ended up liking it.
November 25, 2024
Requires major suspension of disbelief, more so than her usual historical fiction middle grade thrillers. And the whole Nazi subplot felt unnecessary.
July 10, 2025
I loved every single one of Nielsen's books that I've read. Except for this one. Maybe it was kind of flat, or it could be that I was a bit too tired to enjoy reading anything.
April 30, 2025
Really enjoyed this one!
May 24, 2025
My 10 year old son and I read this book (separately, but at the same time so we could discuss it). What a fantastic book! It had adventure, history, stained relationships that the protagonist had to work through. It was a work of art. I will definitely read more by this author! My son loved the book as well!
April 11, 2025
*4.5 stars*
March 19, 2025
"One day you'll climb it, Atlas, and when you do, you'll surprise us all. I think you know as much about Everest as anyone else in our party."
One Wrong Step by Jennifer A Nielsen
This was another fantastic middle grade historical fiction from this author. I enjoyed how it has a thrilling plot, scenes that kept me on the edge of my seat, and a history that I had not really known about: the fact that countries raced against others to the top of Mt. Everest, and this included the possibility there were Nazis trying to reach the top as well.
The author keeps this middle grade appropriate while also laying bare the perils of climbing Mt. Everest.
I loved the camaraderie between Atlas and Maddie and how they work together to help rescue their fathers.
Favorite Parts: Historical Fiction, camaraderie between the teens, thrilling plot, rescue, Mt. Everest
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: no romance
Violence/gore: dire peril, injury, frostbite, talk of war and Nazis and Hitler
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: Mild-Comments are made against various cultures/countries
Religious Content: discussion and mention of afterlife
Other: Mild-grief, loss of parent (past)
I received a copy from the publisher. All thoughts are my own. I listened to the audio on Libby.
What to Expect: One Wrong Step is a middle grade historical fiction with a thrilling plot, a climb up Mt. Everest, and a daring rescue. Appropriate for ages: 9+
Book Info:
Series: standalone
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction
Romance Level: none
Release Date: Available Now
Publisher: Scholastic
POV: single
Where to read it: Libby, Library, all major retailers
One Wrong Step by Jennifer A Nielsen
This was another fantastic middle grade historical fiction from this author. I enjoyed how it has a thrilling plot, scenes that kept me on the edge of my seat, and a history that I had not really known about: the fact that countries raced against others to the top of Mt. Everest, and this included the possibility there were Nazis trying to reach the top as well.
The author keeps this middle grade appropriate while also laying bare the perils of climbing Mt. Everest.
I loved the camaraderie between Atlas and Maddie and how they work together to help rescue their fathers.
Favorite Parts: Historical Fiction, camaraderie between the teens, thrilling plot, rescue, Mt. Everest
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: no romance
Violence/gore: dire peril, injury, frostbite, talk of war and Nazis and Hitler
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: Mild-Comments are made against various cultures/countries
Religious Content: discussion and mention of afterlife
Other: Mild-grief, loss of parent (past)
I received a copy from the publisher. All thoughts are my own. I listened to the audio on Libby.
What to Expect: One Wrong Step is a middle grade historical fiction with a thrilling plot, a climb up Mt. Everest, and a daring rescue. Appropriate for ages: 9+
Book Info:
Series: standalone
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction
Romance Level: none
Release Date: Available Now
Publisher: Scholastic
POV: single
Where to read it: Libby, Library, all major retailers
March 19, 2025
Where your eyes go, your feet will follow.
Another great historical fiction from one of my favorite authors!
Content warnings:
Violence: Minor bloody injuries. Characters get altitude sickness and frostbite. Characters are trapped under avalanches.
Swearing: None.
Romance: Mentions of married couples.
LGBT: None!
11+
I will say, this did start off kind of slow. There wasn't much action towards the beginning. However, after I passed the midway point, things started to pick up and get much more exciting.
I absolutely LOVED Atlas' character development and his full-circle arc. He was a very well thought out character and it shows.
Another great thing about this novel was how it showed different people dealing with grief. We know from the beginning that Atlas lost his mother years ago, but him and his father go through their grief in opposing ways, but they develop and mature as the story goes on.
I love historical fiction because of the facts I learn along with the story. I have now been educated on climbing, altitude sickness, and random facts about Mount Everest. It was worth it :)
Another great historical fiction from one of my favorite authors!
Content warnings:
Violence: Minor bloody injuries. Characters get altitude sickness and frostbite. Characters are trapped under avalanches.
Swearing: None.
Romance: Mentions of married couples.
LGBT: None!
11+
I will say, this did start off kind of slow. There wasn't much action towards the beginning. However, after I passed the midway point, things started to pick up and get much more exciting.
I absolutely LOVED Atlas' character development and his full-circle arc. He was a very well thought out character and it shows.
Another great thing about this novel was how it showed different people dealing with grief. We know from the beginning that Atlas lost his mother years ago, but him and his father go through their grief in opposing ways, but they develop and mature as the story goes on.
I love historical fiction because of the facts I learn along with the story. I have now been educated on climbing, altitude sickness, and random facts about Mount Everest. It was worth it :)
April 21, 2025
I did a mix of physical and audio listening for this book.
This is the newest release by one of my favorite middle grade authors!
One Wrong Step follows a 12 year old boy who loves to climb mountains with his father while also trying to outclimb the grief of losing his mother. They join a group attempting to be the first to summit Mount Everest right as WWII is beginning and face unexpected complications.
I remember watching Into Thin Air (about the disasters of an Everest climb in the 90s) years ago and the concepts and feelings came flooding back to me as I read this story. It was really interesting to see similar setups but in an earlier time period and through the eyes of a younger protagonist. There’s an intensity from the edge of danger hanging over everything but also great moments of introspection and personal development. I marked several lines that left an impact on me. As I was reading I was thinking about the literal mountains I have climbed in my life as well as the metaphorical ones and the ways the life lessons can be applied to both.
I also loved the design layout for this book with chapter headings sharing what elevation they were at and a map of where on Everest the characters were at that time. It was really helpful in visualizing the progress.
Trigger/content notes: grief, life threatening situations from the climb.
This is the newest release by one of my favorite middle grade authors!
One Wrong Step follows a 12 year old boy who loves to climb mountains with his father while also trying to outclimb the grief of losing his mother. They join a group attempting to be the first to summit Mount Everest right as WWII is beginning and face unexpected complications.
I remember watching Into Thin Air (about the disasters of an Everest climb in the 90s) years ago and the concepts and feelings came flooding back to me as I read this story. It was really interesting to see similar setups but in an earlier time period and through the eyes of a younger protagonist. There’s an intensity from the edge of danger hanging over everything but also great moments of introspection and personal development. I marked several lines that left an impact on me. As I was reading I was thinking about the literal mountains I have climbed in my life as well as the metaphorical ones and the ways the life lessons can be applied to both.
I also loved the design layout for this book with chapter headings sharing what elevation they were at and a map of where on Everest the characters were at that time. It was really helpful in visualizing the progress.
Trigger/content notes: grief, life threatening situations from the climb.
June 9, 2025
This is a harrowing adventure story set in August 1939 about a group of climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Fourteen year old Atlas has joined his father for part of the trip. and he is greatly annoyed at being left with Maddie, a girl about his age, and their porter Chodak who has been injured. Nielsen does a great job capturing the time period, location and challenges. The stakes couldn't be higher and it's clear that one wrong move could mean death for the entire expedition. However, everything goes very wrong when there is an avalanche and the only thing Atlas and Maddie hear from the team is someone tapping a SOS. Although, much that happens after this is not very likely, it is still an exciting piece of fiction. Readers will care about what happens to Atlas and Maddie and will have a hard time putting this story down. A good page turner for readers who enjoy adventures!
From the author's note: "Keep putting one foot in front of the other, find a way back up every time you fall, and keep hold of the rope. The view from the top will be worth it."
From the author's note: "Keep putting one foot in front of the other, find a way back up every time you fall, and keep hold of the rope. The view from the top will be worth it."
March 13, 2025
Friends, I just finished this new release from Jennifer A. Nielsen and I can’t say enough good things about it. Though the premise seemed a little far-fetched to me at first (two teenagers climbing Mount Everest in 1939 at the outbreak of WWII), it was a wonderful story with so many important lessons. I found that it matched up so well with Nielsen’s “Once Upon A Climb” which is one of my favorite motivational books and one I have at the ready when my writing journey gets tough.
The book is geared toward 9-12 year olds but I think older teenagers and adults will enjoy it as well. I handed it straight to my 13-year-old when I finished, and I’ve already started begging the local elementary to get this book into their classrooms.
This book had action, adventure, and high stakes. It pulled me in and kept me invested the whole time. It gives a message of not losing hope and learning from our mistakes. In the end, one wrong step might be all it takes to fail, but taking many right steps will lead us exactly where we need to be.
“My eyes were open now, and from now on, I planned to look forward and to look upward. Where the eyes went, my feet would follow.”
The book is geared toward 9-12 year olds but I think older teenagers and adults will enjoy it as well. I handed it straight to my 13-year-old when I finished, and I’ve already started begging the local elementary to get this book into their classrooms.
This book had action, adventure, and high stakes. It pulled me in and kept me invested the whole time. It gives a message of not losing hope and learning from our mistakes. In the end, one wrong step might be all it takes to fail, but taking many right steps will lead us exactly where we need to be.
“My eyes were open now, and from now on, I planned to look forward and to look upward. Where the eyes went, my feet would follow.”
June 6, 2025
Atlas goes on an expedition to climb Mount Everest with his father. The climb takes a dangerous turn and he has to dig deep for the courage needed to survive.
I’ve been a big fan of this author The False Prince Series, which is a favorite, so I was excited to have a new genre. This author has a way of writing a timeless story that had me completely gripping gravity with every terrifying moment. Atlas has tremendous growth and builds a friendship with Maddie that is absolutely necessary in order to save the day. Suspense and mystery made this a thrilling adventure!
Atlas has the skills, but also brings extra baggage and heartache on the climb. When he needs to rely on others to survive, can he get them to safety in time?
Highly recommend the audio!
I’ve been a big fan of this author The False Prince Series, which is a favorite, so I was excited to have a new genre. This author has a way of writing a timeless story that had me completely gripping gravity with every terrifying moment. Atlas has tremendous growth and builds a friendship with Maddie that is absolutely necessary in order to save the day. Suspense and mystery made this a thrilling adventure!
Atlas has the skills, but also brings extra baggage and heartache on the climb. When he needs to rely on others to survive, can he get them to safety in time?
Highly recommend the audio!
August 2, 2025
One Wrong Step by Jennifer A. Nielson
A high stakes, thrilling plot that takes place on the verge of WW2 with Mount Everest as it's backdrop.
Rising tension through the nations has countries racing to be the first to reach the top of Mount Everest. Atlas and his father are a part of an English crew attemping the climb after two years of preparation. Funded by a rich Englishman, with approval from their government, and help from local porters, they set out.
However, as thrilling as the plot is, there is so much more depth to the story. Underlying themes on grief and humanity really shine. I loved how everything comes full circle in the end. There are so many good topics to discuss and I would definitely recommend sharing this one with your middle grader.
A high stakes, thrilling plot that takes place on the verge of WW2 with Mount Everest as it's backdrop.
Rising tension through the nations has countries racing to be the first to reach the top of Mount Everest. Atlas and his father are a part of an English crew attemping the climb after two years of preparation. Funded by a rich Englishman, with approval from their government, and help from local porters, they set out.
However, as thrilling as the plot is, there is so much more depth to the story. Underlying themes on grief and humanity really shine. I loved how everything comes full circle in the end. There are so many good topics to discuss and I would definitely recommend sharing this one with your middle grader.
February 22, 2025
Like the peaks of Mt. Everest, young Atlas scales his own peaks as he learns how to navigate life without his mom & how to come to terms with who he is, his relationship with his dad & a new way to look and live life. I enjoyed the adventure of the climb & the history of previous expeditions.
April 18, 2025
I like Nielsen’s historical fictions, but this one felt a little too unrealistic for me. I really appreciated the author’s note at the end though. For me, that really is the message of the book.
As an aside, I never want to hike Everest. I wanted a warm blanket and hot cocoa the entire time I was reading this!
As an aside, I never want to hike Everest. I wanted a warm blanket and hot cocoa the entire time I was reading this!
September 4, 2025
So good! I absolutely love her writing and characters. I fell in love with Atlas and Maddie and understood their struggles. the suspense was amazing, you felt the fear they were feeling!! overall I definitely recommend!!
March 24, 2025
I love Jennifer Nielsen. She takes us on a great adventure while climbing Mt Everest. She is such a master writer! Her books always make me want to be a better person.
June 8, 2025
Wow, a Jennifer Nielsen book that I didn't particularly like. It started so good, up to about 3/4 of the way it was gripping and the characters were great but then I feel like it just ended. It was like oh yeah I need to end this book somehow. I wasn't impressed at the end.
July 2, 2025
Way to go Atlas and Madi!
July 2, 2025
Outstanding historical, survival story about an expedition to the summit of Everest in 1939
June 8, 2025
this was kind of young for me but it was really good! i loved her other books so when i heard she came out with this i knew i had to read it and it did not disappoint!
July 20, 2025
Good read.
August 20, 2025
A fun middle grade story about two teens who have to save their father's on Mr Everest. Unrealistic, sure, but it was entertaining with lots of life lessons along the way.
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