Lost in the Barrens is a novel of found families. Jamie, Awasin, and Peetyuk are strangers who become friends who become brothers. Jamie is an orphan, Awasin is a chief’s son, and Peetyuk is a boy with two families. Their status and positions couldn’t be more different, yet through their trials in the Barrens, the boys become family. They form bonds of brotherhood that unite them, outlasting their harrowing trials and return journey. Lost in the Barrens demonstrates the power of human connection to transcend traditional structures and shows how survival depends on relying on one another.

After only a year with Uncle Angus, Jamie has found a best friend in the son of Alphonse, the Cree leader and his uncle’s hunting companion: “It was only natural that Alphonse’s son, Awasin, should become almost a brother to young Jamie” (3). Awasin teaches him many things, and Jamie listens and respects the boy’s knowledge. Jamie offers Awasin adventure and rebellion, traits that bring them adventure and fun.

The two boys rely on one another’s skills while surviving for six months in the Barrens of northern Canada. They are opposites in many ways. Awasin is cautious and practical while Jamie is brash, emotional, and creative.