A heartfelt middle grade eco-adventure story full of friendship and
self-discovery, perfect for fans of Dan Gemeinhart and Gary D.
Schmidt.
Jake Rizzi is about to spend the summer at his great-aunt's cabin in the
mossy, sodden Oregon backwoods. His parents seem to need a break from
him and his ADHD. He tries not to take it personally, but isn't sure
about his aunt's off-the-grid lifestyle and strange stories about a
turtle with a ruby-colored shell.
Soon, Jake learns that the turtle is more than a myth. And thanks to a
viral article online, strangers from all over the world have arrived to
search for it--including a sinister animal poacher and towering twin
zoologists from Sweden. Jake is sure that finding the turtle will change
how people see him and his "attention issues"--but he'll need help.
Setting off with his new friend Mia, Jake must decide what matters
more--personal glory? Or protecting the wonders of nature?