
Reach for this book when your child has made a significant mistake and is struggling with the heavy weight of guilt or the fear that they have lost your trust. It is an ideal choice for the middle-grade reader who feels like a 'bystander' in their own family and is desperate to prove their competence and maturity. The story follows twelve-year-old Adrianna as she joins her family's wildlife rescue show in Cuba, only to face a crisis when her actions lead to her brother's injury. Beyond the high-stakes animal adventure, the book explores the nuances of accountability and the journey toward self-confidence. It provides a realistic look at sibling dynamics and the pressure of wanting to excel in a high-achieving family. Written by a real-life marine biologist, it offers authentic STEM inspiration alongside a hopeful message about resilience and earning back trust. It is perfectly suited for ages 8 to 12.
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Sign in to write a reviewStrong themes of guilt and the fear of being excluded from the family business.
Animal-on-animal predation and realistic descriptions of animal injuries for rescue purposes.
The book deals with physical injury and the intense emotional fallout of sibling guilt. The approach is direct and secular, focusing on the realistic consequences of negligence. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing that trust is rebuilt through consistent action rather than just apologies.
A 10-year-old who feels overshadowed by an older sibling or a child who recently 'messed up' and thinks their parents will never trust them with responsibility again.
Read the scene of Feye's injury (the mangrove accident) to gauge if your child might find the medical tension distressing. The book can be read cold as it provides excellent context for the science involved. A child saying, 'I know I messed up, but why won't you let me try again?' or witnessing a child withdraw because they feel they aren't as talented as their siblings.
Younger readers will focus on the 'cool factor' of the crocodiles and the jungle survival. Older readers (11-12) will better appreciate the internal conflict regarding Adrianna's professional identity and her complicated feelings about her family's public image.
Written by 'Mother of Sharks' Melissa Cristina Márquez, this book stands out for its deep, authentic scientific detail and its portrayal of a family leading the way in STEM and conservation.
Adrianna Villalobos and her brother Feye are part of 'Wild Survival!', a nature show transitioning from YouTube to TV. During their first mission in Cuba to rescue an injured crocodile, Adrianna's impulsivity leads to an accident where Feye is hurt. Facing the possibility of being sent home, Adrianna must navigate her guilt and prove her worth by tracking down a legendary 'Mega Croc' while learning the technical and safety demands of wildlife conservation.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.