  | How to save a tortoise (Wildlife Rescue) Author: Messner, Kate | |
| Price: $15.44 | ||
Summary:
Ana and Sofia's cousins Ivy and Ezra volunteer for the local wildlife hospital as "critter couriers," helping injured and orphaned animals get medical help. Then the cousins get a call about an injured gopher tortoise that's been hit by a car. The city hasn't done anything to make crossings safer for the endangered animals, so the kids come up with a plan to do just that.
| Illustrator: | Bricking, Jennifer |
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: LG Reading Level: 4.30 Points: 1.0 Quiz: 557472 |
Reviews:
School Library Journal (+) (02/27/26)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 02/27/2026 Gr 1–4—Twins Ana and Sofia are spending the summer with their cousins Ivy and Ezra in Florida, where they help rehabilitate injured and sick gopher tortoises. This third installment in Messner's "Wildlife Rescue" series does not disappoint. After an adult tortoise is struck by a car and taken to the rescue center, the group witnesses her laying eggs. Eager to see them hatch before returning to California, the kids assist other tortoises by taking them for wagon rides, feeding them, and helping with center chores. Proactive and determined, they petition the city council to lower speed limits and educate construction workers on checking for turtles prior to starting their vehicles. A secondary plot follows Ana, who uses her engineering skills to build a custom scooter for a disabled tortoise, finding the courage to tell her twin she wants to join the Makers Club rather than play volleyball. This early chapter book crafts an exciting plot while providing information about conservation, community engagement, and going outside of one's comfort zone. Included are black-and-white illustrations and an author's note detailing the ecological importance of gopher tortoise burrows. The twins are depicted with light brown skin and dark hair; Sofia is shown with pale skin and light brown hair. VERDICT Highly recommended for animal lovers; this chapter book's focus on environmental advocacy is truly inspiring.—Tracy Cronce - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
