Bloomsbury presents Race for the Ruby Turtle written and read by Stephen Bramucci.
A heartfelt middle grade eco-adventure story full of friendship and self-discovery, perfect for fans of Dan Gemeinhart and Gary D. Schmidt.
Jake Rizzi is about to spend the summer at his great-aunt's cabin in the mossy, sodden Oregon backwoods. His parents seem to need a break from him and his ADHD. He tries not to take it personally, but isn't sure about his aunt's off-the-grid lifestyle and strange stories about a turtle with a ruby-colored shell.
Soon, Jake learns that the turtle is more than a myth. And thanks to a viral article online, strangers from all over the world have arrived to search for it-including a sinister animal poacher and towering twin zoologists from Sweden. Jake is sure that finding the turtle will change how people see him and his "attention issues"-but he'll need help. Setting off with his new friend Mia, Jake must decide what matters more-personal glory? Or protecting the wonders of nature?

Portrait

Stephen Bramucci is an award-winning travel writer and adventurer. He's rowed down the Mekong Delta, crossed the Australian outback in a car powered by French fry oil, and explored ancient pirate islands in Madagascar. A lifelong animal lover, Steve-s encounters with endangered species often come up in his classroom presentations. @SteveBram