I really enjoyed this! It's an exciting adventure story that will appeal to middle-grade readers looking for a narrative thrill with elements of found (and literal) family relationships on display. I appreciate that Jake's ADHD is highlighted as something that impacts him but does not completely define him; hopefully readers will see themselves in Jake and identify themselves not only with his challenges but also with his sense of loyalty and perseverance. (Also, I want to read a whole book about Hettle's life.)

Jake Rizzi has a new label adding to the challenges of growing up: ADHD. His parents and caring educators at school are helping him cope, but it still bothers him he is seen as different.

The story begins in the summer as Jake is dropped off at an aunt’s home in rural Oregon so his parents can take a much anticipated week long vacation. Jake doesn’t want to stay with a relative he barely knows.

Upon learning of Aunt Hettle’s passion to save the environment, Jake’s attitude changes . She also relates a story of a turtle with a ruby colored shell and an upcoming festival where people search for this supposedly mythical creature.

Social media has given the legend a new life and now people from all over the world will be attending in hopes of finding the turtle. Aunt Hettle is fearful that the masses will cause undoable damage to the precious land in the area.

Jake and his new friend Mia take on the responsibility to foil those looking for the turtle, especially after Jake discovers the turtle actually exists. It’s vital to keep the secret so the species is protected and not used for profit.

The third person narration stays close to Jake with several teasing chapters from the bad guy’s perspective. Insights into Jake’s way of thinking will bring understanding to both those living with the label of ADHD and others. It’s a fast paced adventure as it moves to a climatic ending and one that is certainly sequel worthy.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE by Stephen Bramucci

1. The author speaks from experience from his own journey in dealing with ADHD. His heartfelt “Dear Reader” letter before the story begins is a must read.
2. The many points focusing on the environment and how digital misunderstandings lead to dead ends will bring about many beneficial discussions.
3. Jake’s italicized inner thoughts bring readers inside with what he deals with on a daily basis. Each thought adds more knowledge as to how ADHD effects the mind along with coping strategies.
4. The secondary characters aren’t just fill-ins to add pages to the story. They are all important from Mia (who not only tries to understand Jake but also has family troubles of her own) to the Swedish Adventure Brothers and the shady Texas Ranger.
5. Making space for unique and endangered creatures is a constant reminder we all need.

This book surprised and delighted me in so many ways. Jake makes an authentic middle grade voice and one I especially liked because of Jake's perspective of the world through the senses of someone who has ADHD. Jake is intelligent, loyal, loving--I cheered him on as he used his detail-focused mind to solve a mystery with the help of both friends and seemingly enemies.

Jake's love and care for his dog Singer made me love him even more and Jake's sense of environmental stewardship is one I rooted for as he tried to do what is best for the land and its inhabitants.

I connected with Jake's sense of humor and often found myself smiling as I read. I couldn't wait to get back to reading as the stakes and mystery continued building. I highly recommended this book for all middle grade readers who enjoy action stories, nature, friendship and family stories, mysteries and a bit of thrillers too.

Eleven-year-old Jake is not thrilled about the idea of spending his last, glorious week of summer break at his great-aunt’s remote cabin in the Oregon backcountry. But, it does give Jake an opportunity to experience the rainiest city in the United States, just in time for the annual Nehalem Blackberry Moon Festival. When a piece of family lore appears to be more than just a legend and a host of folks from around the world are invested in discovering the truth for themselves, Jake finds himself at the center of a mystery that is bigger than he could have imagined. Luckily, he connects with friends and family to do the right thing, and what begins as a week of drudgery develops into one Jake will never forget.

This clever middle grade novel blends environmental conservation with one boy’s experience living with ADHD. Since the story is told primarily from Jake’s perspective, readers get a first-hand look at the way his brain works, which ultimately serves as a mirror for some readers and a window for others, depending on the way their own brains process the world around them. Jake is a likable character on his own, and his myriad companions enhance the overall feel of the book. Quirky personalities, dastardly bad guys, and comfortable friendships shape the narrative into one that is enjoyable from beginning to end.

There is a secondary voice in the story, and the book is designed to ensure readers are aware of the narrator shift whenever it occurs through a change in the appearance of both the page background and the text. This speaks to Jake’s experience and honors all readers who have ADHD because it provides a visual cue that accompanies the text as the story unfolds. Excellent writing, a whimsical premise, and a heartfelt delivery make this book one that will resonate with middle grade and older readers alike. It puts a unique spin on the message of nature conservation, and at its heart is one young boy’s journey to self-acceptance. This is a positive addition to library collections for middle grade readers.

This story is fantastic. I loved all the animal facts and it does a wonderful job of representing life with ADHD. I especially enjoyed the myth of the ruby turtle and the homesteader book.