Looking for a book Loved by Your Local Librarian?
Berani by Michelle Kadarusman
This novel spoke to my 10-year-old self, a kid who loved to read anything about animals or exotic, faraway places.
Berani is a clever middle-grade novel (8-13 years) that features common themes children can relate to, such as navigating friendships and family relationships, race and identity, and dealing with school life. But underpinning these issues lies the beating heart of the novel: school kids who are really eco warriors fighting to protect both endangered animals and the environment.
Set in the beautifully lush and tropical country of Indonesia, readers are taken on a journey with Malia, a headstrong yet confident and super smart young girl; Ari, a shy student who dreams of winning his first chess tournament; and Ginger Juice, the sweet but orphaned orangutan who is desperate to be reunited with her mother.
The short chapters make this a quick read and a real page-turner, and the chapters alternate character narration between the three protagonists. If your young readers aren’t quite at this level, the story is well-suited to a read aloud before bedtime; it can lead to some wonderful conversations with your children about endangered species and how to care for the planet.
A great book that demonstrates to young people the power of advocating for what you believe in, and how we have the power to impact the lives of others—no matter how big or small we are.
- Monika at Eltham Library
Don’t miss these other stories about animals, adventure and saving the planet:
The Last Bear by Hannah Gold
There are no polar bears left on Bear Island. At least, that's what April's father tells her when his scientific research takes them to a faraway Arctic outpost for six months. But one night, April catches a glimpse of something distinctly bear shaped loping across the horizon. A polar bear who shouldn't be there, who is hungry, lonely, and a long way from home. As their unlikely bond grows, April is determined to save her new friend. And so begins the biggest and most important journey of her life.
Pax by Sarah Pennypacker
Pax was only a kit when his family was killed and he was rescued by Peter. Now the country is at war and when his father enlists, Peter has no choice but to move in with his grandfather. Far worse than leaving home is the fact that he has to leave Pax behind. But before Peter spends even one night under his grandfather's roof he sneaks out into the night, determined to find his beloved friend. This is the story of Peter, Pax, and their journeys back to each other as war rampages throughout the country.
Thirst by Varsha Bajaj
Minni lives in the poorest part of Mumbai, where access to water is limited, and she often has to wait hours to use the communal tap. Lately, though, even that access is threatened by water shortages and thieves who are stealing this precious commodity -- an act that Minni accidentally witnesses one night. Meanwhile, in the high-rise building where she has begun working as a maid, she discovers that water streams out of every faucet and there's even a rooftop swimming pool. Then one day, Minni encounters the water mafia boss and faces her biggest dilemma yet -- should she expose him even if it means risking her job... and maybe her life? How did her future get so complicated?
The Wild Folk by Sylvia V. Linsteadt
When Tin, an orphan city boy with a passion for invention, and curious country girl Comfrey are visited by two young hares, it is the start of a magical quest. To stop the city from ravaging the country, they must complete seemingly impossible challenges set by the mystical Wild Folk to find the one who holds the secret to saving their world.