Operation Redwood
Grade 4-7–When Julian Carter-Li, 12, becomes ill, he is sent by his school to the office of his wealthy, bullying uncle with whom he lives. There he sees email from a Robin Elder degrading the man for being a moron and world class jerk, and he quickly becomes fascinated with this spirited person. Through their exchanges, Julian learns that homeschooled Robin lives next to a grove of redwood trees that his uncle's company plans to harvest, and Julian ditches math camp to see the trees for himself. Drawn to both the forest and Robin's family, Julian embarks on a campaign to save the trees, and the children take up residence in the Elder family's tree house. With his friend Danny and Robin, he faces down his uncle to save the forest. Fast paced and full of fun, the story captures the excitement and satisfaction of defeating a large corporation. Situations are sometimes resolved too easily, and character development is spotty, but the story motivates readers to turn the pages regardless. Julian's relationship with his younger cousin is well done, balancing the tension of a favored kid with genuine affection. Teachers will be able to use this novel for Earth Day discussions and can foster conversations on environmental activism of all types. The resolution reminds readers that everyone, no matter how large or small, can take action on issues that are important to them.–Chris Shoemaker, New York Public LibraryCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.