The Ascent

PUBLICATION DATE

15/07/2025

Book Synopsis

“But what if I can’t?”

Maddie, Charlie, and Sophi are excited about their first ever Cousin Camp. With Mima’s knack for adventure, Papa’s mischievous antics, and no parents allowed, they’re sure to have a grand time!

When unexpected struggles arise during scavenger hunts, deep cave explorations, and a daunting hike, they must learn to work together to overcome their fears and take the next right step, or miss out on the adventure and the biggest discovery—that they can do hard things.

After three decades of facilitating adventures for youth and adults in both personal and professional settings, Mima (aka Lori Giesey) is capturing the most memorable moments from real-life events in Cousin Camp Chronicles, a series of purposeful adventures curated to help young children cultivate their imagination, sense of wonder, and belief in themselves.

Join a growing group of cousins who learn they are stronger than they think, especially when they work together.

What an amazing story of three cousins who seem to be good friends too! The descriptions captured in The Ascent, the first book in the Cousin Camp Chronicles, share the adventures of these relatable cousins as they walk through an action-packed week of experiences, life lessons, and imagination-enhancing and self-confidence-building events. As an educator for 20+ years, I can easily see how The Ascent will quickly become a classroom read aloud classic. If only everyone would have had Papa and Mima as their grandparents growing up, we all would be a little better off for it!

The Ascent is the ideal mix of lighthearted fun and adventure mixed with the challenges and rewards of completing a difficult task. The characters and plot are well thought-out and evolve as the story progresses. This is a must read.

Lori’s captivating book is a fun, informative, teachable tale that all young readers will love. It’s exciting and teaches many life lessons. As a former elementary and middle school teacher, I know young readers will love it!