What do you think?
Rate this book
Rescue at Lake Wild
In this funny and moving animals-in-peril adventure, a twelve-year-old girl and her two best friends determine to rescue two orphaned beaver kits—and soon find themselves trying to solve a local environmental crisis.
Everyone knows that twelve-year-old Madison “Madi” Lewis is not allowed to bring home any more animals. After she's saved hairless mice, two birds, a rabbit, and a stray tom cat that ended up destroying the front porch, Madi’s parents decide that if they find one more stray animal in the house, she won’t be allowed to meet Jane Goodall at an upcoming gala event.
But when Madi and her two best friends, Aaron and Jack, rescue beaver kits whose mother was killed, they find themselves at the center of a local conspiracy that’s putting the beavers and their habitats in danger. As Madi and her friends race to uncover the threat targeting the beavers, Madi must put her animal whisperer skills to the test in both raising the orphaned beaver kits and staying out of trouble long enough.
Everyone knows that twelve-year-old Madison “Madi” Lewis is not allowed to bring home any more animals. After she's saved hairless mice, two birds, a rabbit, and a stray tom cat that ended up destroying the front porch, Madi’s parents decide that if they find one more stray animal in the house, she won’t be allowed to meet Jane Goodall at an upcoming gala event.
But when Madi and her two best friends, Aaron and Jack, rescue beaver kits whose mother was killed, they find themselves at the center of a local conspiracy that’s putting the beavers and their habitats in danger. As Madi and her friends race to uncover the threat targeting the beavers, Madi must put her animal whisperer skills to the test in both raising the orphaned beaver kits and staying out of trouble long enough.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published April 27, 2021
33 people are currently reading
1991 people want to read
About the author
Terry Lynn Johnson
12 books337 followersTerry Lynn Johnson writes outdoor adventures inspired by her own team of eighteen Alaskan huskies. Her passion for adventure has provided her with a rich background to write from.
When she's not writing, Terry enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, and kayaking. She works as a Conservation Officer (Game Warden) in Whitefish Falls, Ontario.
She is represented by Caryn Wiseman of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency.
When she's not writing, Terry enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, and kayaking. She works as a Conservation Officer (Game Warden) in Whitefish Falls, Ontario.
She is represented by Caryn Wiseman of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
December 21, 2021
This is a young middle grade book. I request this book because my daughter loves rescuing animals, and I felt she may love this book. After, I have read this book I know she is going to love this book. This book is all about a little girl that loves to help animals, and she rescues orphaned beaver kits. I love how many facts about beavers where worked into this book. The characters where fun to follow, and the beaver kits also where like characters. I think this book is written so young middle grade readers will be able to read this book without problems. I really enjoyed this book. Note: I have brought a hard copy of this book for my daughter, and she is so excited about it. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (HMH Books for Young Readers) or author (Terry Lynn Johnson) via NetGalley, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
April 20, 2021
Madi Lewis loves animals. She spends time each day observing the wildlife that lives near Lake Wild. Her grandmother taught her how to log the details she sees as well as how to take care of strays. All that practice comes in handy when Madi and her friends (Aaron and Jack) and Jack's dog Lid discover orphaned beaver kits. Even though Madi has promised not to take in any strays for awhile, she feels compelled to save the little guys. It is a tough balancing act to keep the little kits a secret while taking care of them and figuring out how their parents were killed. If her new charges are discovered, Madi will lose the chance to meet Jane Goodall at a special conservation event. On top of that the town population seems to be more and more anti-beaver. Can Madi and friends solve the mystery of the dead beavers while also helping their community find a new way to accommodate the beavers who want to live near their lakes and streams. Lots of great facts about caring for animals with a list of Dos at the end of the book. This would make a really great read aloud as a part of an Earth Day celebration.
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Rescue at Lake Wild is the first book by Terry Lynn Johnson that I've read but won't be the last!
In this book we meet Madi (Madison), who is an animal whisperer. She is following in her Nanas footsteps of caring for and rescuing animals with her unique abilities. Her Nana was the towns animal rehabilitation specialist and Madi aspires to be just like her. Her family are fed up of her bringing home waifs and strays and have told her that if she brings home another animal she can't go to meet her idol and inspiration Dr Jane Goodall.
Madi and her friends then find and rescue orphaned Beaver kits and there comes a dilemma as to what to do with them.
This is an adorable animal adventure book for any animal lovers and I will be getting a paperback copy as soon as I can!
Rescue at Lake Wild is the first book by Terry Lynn Johnson that I've read but won't be the last!
In this book we meet Madi (Madison), who is an animal whisperer. She is following in her Nanas footsteps of caring for and rescuing animals with her unique abilities. Her Nana was the towns animal rehabilitation specialist and Madi aspires to be just like her. Her family are fed up of her bringing home waifs and strays and have told her that if she brings home another animal she can't go to meet her idol and inspiration Dr Jane Goodall.
Madi and her friends then find and rescue orphaned Beaver kits and there comes a dilemma as to what to do with them.
This is an adorable animal adventure book for any animal lovers and I will be getting a paperback copy as soon as I can!
April 26, 2021
I follow a bunch of animal rescue and rehabilitation sites, the goal of which is to eventually return the animals back into the wild, so I just knew this would be a book I wanted to share with young readers. And it did not disappoint.
Twelve-year-old Madison Lewis wants nothing more than to grow up and become the next Jane Goodall. Her beloved grandmother was a wildlife rehabilitator and now that her Nana is gone, Madi wants to carry on her work. But after she finds their parents dead, and even after she rescues their two beaver kits from their lodge Madi knows she's going to be in big trouble if she brings them home. Madi has been told no more rescues or she won't be able to go to the Jane Goodall Institute and meet her idol and find how she did her observations of animals in the wild.
So of course, Madi and her friends Jack and Aaron, along with Jack black Lab, Lid, rescue the kits and bring them to Madi's house. Hiding them in the shed turned clubhouse in the backyard, Madi realizes she has a lot to learn about the care and feeding of beaver kits. At least, she has Nana's notes to refer to, but even at that, it is a big job. Luckily, mom works a lot and dad is often away for a week at a time, but then there is older sister Marley, not much of an animal lover, to contend with.
Then Madi, Aaron, Jack, and, of course, Lid the tracking dog, discover that the dead beavers had built a dam that blocked the channel that flows from Lake Wild to Lake Little Hawk, and is now causing roads and bridges in their township of Willow Grove to flood. While Jack and Lid investigate to see if they can find the person who killed the two beavers, Madi works on caring for the kits. In the middle of all this, Madi finds another beaver kit. When Marley discovers the kits, she makes Madi an offer that she really can't refuse: if Marley keeps quiet about the kits, Madi won't say anything about the party Marley is planning when she is sure no parent will be home.
Can Jack, Aaron and Lid solve the mystery of who shot the beavers? Can Madi figure out what to do with her beaver kits? And can a viable solution be found to prevent further flooding because of the beaver dams?
Rescue at Lake Wild is an entertaining, interesting and informative story for younger middle grade readers not quite ready for the Terry Lynn Johnson's wonderful but harrowing survival stories like Ice Dogs and Dog Driven. There's a lot of detail about beaver life, and especially about caring for them. Not everything Madi does goes well, but I like how she learns from her mistakes and also how the beaver kits, acting on their natural instincts, are her best teachers. She certainly hones her observation skills watching and caring for them.
Johnson really knows how to craft an exciting adventure story. She gives Madi and her friends a freedom of movement most kids don't have in today's world. They travel around in an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) and a small motor boat, but considering how little her parents are around, Madi does have a cell phone to check in with them. All in all, this make a nice way for young readers to have an outdoor adventure, even if it is only vicariously.
Whenever you read a Terry Lynn Johnson book, you know you are reading the words of a real animal lover, and her stories will hopefully inspire her readers to develop a strong love and respect for them, too. Do read the Author's Note for more information about this book and what inspired Johnson to write it. Besides the Author's Note, there is an important list called "The Dos of Wildlife" detailing what to do if you think a baby animal needs rescuing. Madi had the benefit of being her Nana's apprentice before she passed away, and has some experience with wildlife rescue, but as the head of the rehab facility that takes in the beavers kits tells Madi, people keeping wildlife does more harms to animals than good.
Rescue at Lake Wild is an appealing book that should please animal and wildlife lovers looking for adventure and mystery.
This book is recommended for readers age 8+
This book was an eARC gratefully received from Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media
Twelve-year-old Madison Lewis wants nothing more than to grow up and become the next Jane Goodall. Her beloved grandmother was a wildlife rehabilitator and now that her Nana is gone, Madi wants to carry on her work. But after she finds their parents dead, and even after she rescues their two beaver kits from their lodge Madi knows she's going to be in big trouble if she brings them home. Madi has been told no more rescues or she won't be able to go to the Jane Goodall Institute and meet her idol and find how she did her observations of animals in the wild.
So of course, Madi and her friends Jack and Aaron, along with Jack black Lab, Lid, rescue the kits and bring them to Madi's house. Hiding them in the shed turned clubhouse in the backyard, Madi realizes she has a lot to learn about the care and feeding of beaver kits. At least, she has Nana's notes to refer to, but even at that, it is a big job. Luckily, mom works a lot and dad is often away for a week at a time, but then there is older sister Marley, not much of an animal lover, to contend with.
Then Madi, Aaron, Jack, and, of course, Lid the tracking dog, discover that the dead beavers had built a dam that blocked the channel that flows from Lake Wild to Lake Little Hawk, and is now causing roads and bridges in their township of Willow Grove to flood. While Jack and Lid investigate to see if they can find the person who killed the two beavers, Madi works on caring for the kits. In the middle of all this, Madi finds another beaver kit. When Marley discovers the kits, she makes Madi an offer that she really can't refuse: if Marley keeps quiet about the kits, Madi won't say anything about the party Marley is planning when she is sure no parent will be home.
Can Jack, Aaron and Lid solve the mystery of who shot the beavers? Can Madi figure out what to do with her beaver kits? And can a viable solution be found to prevent further flooding because of the beaver dams?
Rescue at Lake Wild is an entertaining, interesting and informative story for younger middle grade readers not quite ready for the Terry Lynn Johnson's wonderful but harrowing survival stories like Ice Dogs and Dog Driven. There's a lot of detail about beaver life, and especially about caring for them. Not everything Madi does goes well, but I like how she learns from her mistakes and also how the beaver kits, acting on their natural instincts, are her best teachers. She certainly hones her observation skills watching and caring for them.
Johnson really knows how to craft an exciting adventure story. She gives Madi and her friends a freedom of movement most kids don't have in today's world. They travel around in an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) and a small motor boat, but considering how little her parents are around, Madi does have a cell phone to check in with them. All in all, this make a nice way for young readers to have an outdoor adventure, even if it is only vicariously.
Whenever you read a Terry Lynn Johnson book, you know you are reading the words of a real animal lover, and her stories will hopefully inspire her readers to develop a strong love and respect for them, too. Do read the Author's Note for more information about this book and what inspired Johnson to write it. Besides the Author's Note, there is an important list called "The Dos of Wildlife" detailing what to do if you think a baby animal needs rescuing. Madi had the benefit of being her Nana's apprentice before she passed away, and has some experience with wildlife rescue, but as the head of the rehab facility that takes in the beavers kits tells Madi, people keeping wildlife does more harms to animals than good.
Rescue at Lake Wild is an appealing book that should please animal and wildlife lovers looking for adventure and mystery.
This book is recommended for readers age 8+
This book was an eARC gratefully received from Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media
May 18, 2022
This is a fantastic summer read! We loved learning about beavers. The story was engaging, we kept wanting to listen so we can find out what happened next. We love books with a lot of nature involved and this one definitely fit the bill. I’d love to see more books by Terry Lynn Johnson.
May 11, 2021
Madi grew up learning to take care of animals in crisis with the help of her grandmother's expertise. Now that she's gone, it's up to her take up the mantle. Her mom doesn't take too kindly to all the animals running around her home so she's told to stop rescuing wild animals. But Madi can't, "If you see something, do something." When she and her friends Aaron and Jack discover some beaver kits whose parent's have been killed they rescue them. It was relatively easy compared to the adventure that awaits them.
Rescue at Lake Wild offers mystery, adventure, and teaching moments about wild animals. I particularly enjoyed how courageous Madi was and how she stuck to her morals in helping animals in need. I really enjoyed learning about beavers and Madi's observations on them. Her friends were always there with her to help her with saving the beavers and the animal investigation. We have the wary one in Aaron while Jack is bold. Jack in particular wants to be a game warden which is basically police for nature. He has a dog named Lid who consumes everything on sight. He's taught him to track which comes in handy since the group of friends investigate the deaths of the beaver kits parents. That is one thing that I would be wary of when recommending this to a younger audience since it does talk about animals getting shot and killed.
There are some parts of the story that talk about the family dynamics within Madi's home. Her parents work a lot so most of the time she is being babysat by her older sister who thinks she's a pest. I thought it was a great addition into the story for the author to address the parent's absence and the relationship of the two sisters. I enjoyed the fast pace of this middle grade adventure story. I thought there were some moments where it transitioned to another section of the story a little too fast and I would have liked to get a little more detail at the end. Otherwise I thought Rescue at Lake Wild was a lot of fun and I could easily see myself giving this as a gift to my cousin who wants to be a veterinarian. An adventurous, mysterious, fast-paced story that will make you intrigued by beavers, Rescue at Lake Wild was a wonderful middle grade novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin for letting me read Rescue at Lake Wild in exchange for an honest review!
Rescue at Lake Wild offers mystery, adventure, and teaching moments about wild animals. I particularly enjoyed how courageous Madi was and how she stuck to her morals in helping animals in need. I really enjoyed learning about beavers and Madi's observations on them. Her friends were always there with her to help her with saving the beavers and the animal investigation. We have the wary one in Aaron while Jack is bold. Jack in particular wants to be a game warden which is basically police for nature. He has a dog named Lid who consumes everything on sight. He's taught him to track which comes in handy since the group of friends investigate the deaths of the beaver kits parents. That is one thing that I would be wary of when recommending this to a younger audience since it does talk about animals getting shot and killed.
There are some parts of the story that talk about the family dynamics within Madi's home. Her parents work a lot so most of the time she is being babysat by her older sister who thinks she's a pest. I thought it was a great addition into the story for the author to address the parent's absence and the relationship of the two sisters. I enjoyed the fast pace of this middle grade adventure story. I thought there were some moments where it transitioned to another section of the story a little too fast and I would have liked to get a little more detail at the end. Otherwise I thought Rescue at Lake Wild was a lot of fun and I could easily see myself giving this as a gift to my cousin who wants to be a veterinarian. An adventurous, mysterious, fast-paced story that will make you intrigued by beavers, Rescue at Lake Wild was a wonderful middle grade novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin for letting me read Rescue at Lake Wild in exchange for an honest review!
August 2, 2020
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and the publisher for an eARC of this book.
I love this author, and I'll read anything that she writes. This story is a lower MG read about three friends who find some orphaned beaver kits, and are determined to not only protect them, but figure out who is killing the beavers in their areas.
There are several things about this book that I think will make it a hit with young readers. The cover art by Maike Plenzke is colorful, kid-friendly, and very appealing. The length at just over 200 pages will tempt many readers who pass on longer reads. The main character, Madi, is passionate about saving wildlife and following in her grandmother's footsteps to care for injured animals. There is so much fascinating information about beavers (I had no idea they were so smart and capable of problem solving) without feeling overdone or too factual. Madi's friends, Aaron and Jack (and Jack's dog, Lid) are part of the plan to hide the kits so Madi's mom doesn't find out, but the adventures that they get into together are funny and typical middle grade behavior. I really appreciated the resolution of the story, and would love to read another story about one of Madi's animal rescues.
This would be a great classroom read aloud, with an opportunity to talk about animal conservation and poaching, and our role to play in it.
I love this author, and I'll read anything that she writes. This story is a lower MG read about three friends who find some orphaned beaver kits, and are determined to not only protect them, but figure out who is killing the beavers in their areas.
There are several things about this book that I think will make it a hit with young readers. The cover art by Maike Plenzke is colorful, kid-friendly, and very appealing. The length at just over 200 pages will tempt many readers who pass on longer reads. The main character, Madi, is passionate about saving wildlife and following in her grandmother's footsteps to care for injured animals. There is so much fascinating information about beavers (I had no idea they were so smart and capable of problem solving) without feeling overdone or too factual. Madi's friends, Aaron and Jack (and Jack's dog, Lid) are part of the plan to hide the kits so Madi's mom doesn't find out, but the adventures that they get into together are funny and typical middle grade behavior. I really appreciated the resolution of the story, and would love to read another story about one of Madi's animal rescues.
This would be a great classroom read aloud, with an opportunity to talk about animal conservation and poaching, and our role to play in it.
March 16, 2021
This was such an uplifting read which made the pandemic a little easier. At least for a week.
It's a young middle grade read about a little girl who loves animals and saving them is her passion. She saved beaver kits and want everyone to help while she is keeping the beaver in her room and prays that her parents or her sister will not come inside and see what she is doing. Madi's love for animals is such a lovely and cute thing, since I relate so much to her because as I was being a little girl I was saving all the animals out there and my parents weren't allowing me to keep them
Somehow Madi's been a little courageous and she is finding a Foster for these lovely animals she finds. Love the bond with her grandmother and the fact that is keeping the tradition
For sure I am going to buy this book at the release date for my niece. I think she is going to adore this one.
Many thanks to the publisher and #netgalley for an advance readers copy of this book. It was a pleasure reading it
It's a young middle grade read about a little girl who loves animals and saving them is her passion. She saved beaver kits and want everyone to help while she is keeping the beaver in her room and prays that her parents or her sister will not come inside and see what she is doing. Madi's love for animals is such a lovely and cute thing, since I relate so much to her because as I was being a little girl I was saving all the animals out there and my parents weren't allowing me to keep them
Somehow Madi's been a little courageous and she is finding a Foster for these lovely animals she finds. Love the bond with her grandmother and the fact that is keeping the tradition
For sure I am going to buy this book at the release date for my niece. I think she is going to adore this one.
Many thanks to the publisher and #netgalley for an advance readers copy of this book. It was a pleasure reading it
July 17, 2021
This book is darling and is clearly a love letter to the author's actual profession (she is a Canadian conservationist). The main character, Madi, spends a lot of this book wanting to become an "animal whisper" because she is inspired by Jane Gooddall. This is also a great middle grade story looking at nature, conservation, and issues surrounding the overpopulation of creatures (in this case beavers). This book is very good about how it presents its information to the reader as well. Overall, I thought this was a very cute read.
February 28, 2021
[Blog]::[Youtube]::[Twitter]::[Instagram]::[Pinterest]::[Bloglovin]
“Rescue at Lake Wild” is a cute middle-grade adventure about a girl who acts as an animal whisperer to help beavers.
Firstly, I admire the author for writing a middle-grade novel focusing on preserving wildlife. I was fascinated reading about beavers’ habitual traits and thought the author did a lovely job in narrating the facts. Also, the story is relatively short and would encourage young readers to read and learn.
The characters are also likable and adventurous. Madison is a fantastic protagonist. She motives you to appreciate the outdoors and protecting the beavers. I feel Madison is an excellent inspiration for a reader of any age group. Moreover, I enjoyed how she meticulously researches and details her findings of the beavers in an organized manner. I also liked the idea Madison comes up with using iPods to direct them. She also has a friendly rapport with Jack and Aaron, and they form a good team.
Similarly, the author also added the mystery element nicely, wondering who the culprit is. Some moments also made me laugh out loud, like when Madison realizes where the beavers are, thanks to her mother.
However, the ending felt rushed. Although I enjoyed the end, I felt that there was too much going on. A lot happens in the last few pages, where it feels like you miss out on a lot if you blink. Moreover, I don’t remember if there was any punishment for the culprit who initiated the attack.
Apart from that, this is a charming book. I can see this turn into a series, where we follow Madison on many adventures rescuing various animals. Overall, “Rescue at Lake Wild” is a cute middle-grade adventure that is great to pick up, especially if you are an animal lover.
June 25, 2021
Five stars! I bought this book after hearing the author speak (online), and I absolutely loved it! Just ask my family. While reading, I could frequently be heard exclaiming, “This is so great!”
I won’t recount the plot for you; that info is readily available online but...
RESCUE AT LAKE WILD is a fun middle-grade book. It’s chockfull of mystery, surprise, and suspense. It’s also funny - the antics of Lid, the dog, had me snorting!
Don’t be shy about buying this book for your middle-grade boy. The protagonist (Madi) is a twelve-year-old girl, but this isn’t a ‘girls’ book.’ Madi’s sidekicks and best friends are two boys (Aaron and Jack) who are fantastic in their own right and play wonderful and important roles in the story.
The book is touted as being perfect for animal lovers and eco-friendly readers. While that’s true – I did learn a ton about beavers –it’s also so much fun to read that I suggest that RESCUE AT LAKE WILD has wide-ranging appeal. It’s perfect for anyone!
I won’t recount the plot for you; that info is readily available online but...
RESCUE AT LAKE WILD is a fun middle-grade book. It’s chockfull of mystery, surprise, and suspense. It’s also funny - the antics of Lid, the dog, had me snorting!
Don’t be shy about buying this book for your middle-grade boy. The protagonist (Madi) is a twelve-year-old girl, but this isn’t a ‘girls’ book.’ Madi’s sidekicks and best friends are two boys (Aaron and Jack) who are fantastic in their own right and play wonderful and important roles in the story.
The book is touted as being perfect for animal lovers and eco-friendly readers. While that’s true – I did learn a ton about beavers –it’s also so much fun to read that I suggest that RESCUE AT LAKE WILD has wide-ranging appeal. It’s perfect for anyone!
January 27, 2021
Madi Lewis knows that she isn’t supposed to bring anymore stray animals home or she won’t be allowed to meet Jane Goodall at an upcoming Gala. But when she and her 2 best friends Aaron and Jack rescue 2 orphaned beaver kits whose parents were shot, she has no choice but to take them home to care for or they would die in the wild without their parents. Jack, who wants to be a Big Game Warden, with his dog Lid as well as Madi and Aaron are searching for clues to figure out who killed those beavers and stop the town from killing all the beavers because they are damning up the wrong spots and flooding roads and farms along the river.
This was a really great read and so much fun. I really liked that Madi’s grandmother was a Wildlife Rehabilitator which is why she is so passionate about saving wild animals and her motto “If you see something, do something”. I liked all the animal conservation information and how her and her friends problem solved how to have the beavers dam where they wanted them to and not where it was wrecking the roads and peoples land. Also all the information about beavers was really interesting and I didn’t know anything about them so that was fun to learn. This was a really easy read and the dynamic between the 3 friends was great and the kids were just so funny.
Thanks to HMH Childrens Book Group and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
This was a really great read and so much fun. I really liked that Madi’s grandmother was a Wildlife Rehabilitator which is why she is so passionate about saving wild animals and her motto “If you see something, do something”. I liked all the animal conservation information and how her and her friends problem solved how to have the beavers dam where they wanted them to and not where it was wrecking the roads and peoples land. Also all the information about beavers was really interesting and I didn’t know anything about them so that was fun to learn. This was a really easy read and the dynamic between the 3 friends was great and the kids were just so funny.
Thanks to HMH Childrens Book Group and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 3, 2021
Rescue at Lake Wild is a charming and thoughtful middle-grade summer adventure story of a young girl named Madi. Madi and her two friends are on a quest to rescue orphaned beaver kits and figure out the mystery of why the beavers on Lake Wild are being threatened.
Readers will adore Madi and her affection for Jane Goodall. This book is great even for children who aren't as in to nature and conservation as Madi, for any child will resonate with the passion for something they care about and that feeling like the adults around them just aren't getting it and certainly aren't listening to them. Madi and her friends Aaron and Jack passionately care for the wild spaces they spend their time together in.
I think this book brings in a little nostalgia in that it presents a time when kids spent their summers outdoors playing with friends and not on TikTok. To that point, this middle-grade book does feel like it will touch the younger ones in this age group a bit better.
I loved the passion for nature, mystery of the plot, and of course all the educational information about beavers sprinkled through the text as we fall in love with all the beaver kit antics.
This one is memorable, funny, and moving.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book by Blue Slip Media. Opinions are my own.
Readers will adore Madi and her affection for Jane Goodall. This book is great even for children who aren't as in to nature and conservation as Madi, for any child will resonate with the passion for something they care about and that feeling like the adults around them just aren't getting it and certainly aren't listening to them. Madi and her friends Aaron and Jack passionately care for the wild spaces they spend their time together in.
I think this book brings in a little nostalgia in that it presents a time when kids spent their summers outdoors playing with friends and not on TikTok. To that point, this middle-grade book does feel like it will touch the younger ones in this age group a bit better.
I loved the passion for nature, mystery of the plot, and of course all the educational information about beavers sprinkled through the text as we fall in love with all the beaver kit antics.
This one is memorable, funny, and moving.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book by Blue Slip Media. Opinions are my own.
June 27, 2021
Loved it! Cute book for animal lovers!
June 18, 2021
Nancy Drew Meets Jane Goodall
This charming MG is about a young naturalist who learned from her grandmother how to take care of injured wildlife. She idolizes Jane Goodall, and is all set to meet her when her summer is turned upside-down when she rescues two orphaned beaver kits.
First she has to keep them secret, then she has to figure out how to care for them. And at the same time she’s helping her friends Jack and Aaron try to solve the mystery of who shot the beavers’ parents. Throughout it all, she’s warm-hearted, smart, and determined, and you can’t help but root for her.
It’s the perfect gift for kids interested in wildlife rehabilitation, beavers, or simply anyone who enjoys a good story. There’s also a hint there might be a sequel, and I definitely hope for more adventures with Madi and her mystery-solving friends.
This charming MG is about a young naturalist who learned from her grandmother how to take care of injured wildlife. She idolizes Jane Goodall, and is all set to meet her when her summer is turned upside-down when she rescues two orphaned beaver kits.
First she has to keep them secret, then she has to figure out how to care for them. And at the same time she’s helping her friends Jack and Aaron try to solve the mystery of who shot the beavers’ parents. Throughout it all, she’s warm-hearted, smart, and determined, and you can’t help but root for her.
It’s the perfect gift for kids interested in wildlife rehabilitation, beavers, or simply anyone who enjoys a good story. There’s also a hint there might be a sequel, and I definitely hope for more adventures with Madi and her mystery-solving friends.
December 29, 2020
Madison is an animal whisperer, much like her late Nana, who was once the town's animal rehabilitation specialist. Her parents have warned her not to take on any more strays, but when she and her friends find orphaned beaver kits, she refuses to let them starve. They also know that there are folks in town who aren't happy with the beavers-- and they're determined to find out who shot the parents of the kits. I learned quite a bit about beavers even as an adult while reading Rescue at Lake Wild! Animal and mystery lovers alike will dive right into this quick-paced novel of environmental justice.
June 6, 2022
A team of young wildlife lovers work together to solve the mystery of two orphaned beavers. Madi is the animal whisper/rescuer obsessed with Jane Goodall. Jack wants to be a game warden when he grows up - he's on the hunt for the person who killed the beavers' parents. Aaron is super brainy - he's got an scientific, engineer's mind.
They make observations, gather data, and test hypotheses. They hunt down the poacher while learning to care for two baby beavers. It's funny and educational. My kids and I learned a lot as we took turns reading chapters.
They make observations, gather data, and test hypotheses. They hunt down the poacher while learning to care for two baby beavers. It's funny and educational. My kids and I learned a lot as we took turns reading chapters.
May 17, 2021
My book!
Prepare for- beaver kit shenanigans, good friends, a wildlife poaching mystery, and a rather food-obsessed dog.
I'm thrilled with the cover by the amazing Maike Plenzke!
Prepare for- beaver kit shenanigans, good friends, a wildlife poaching mystery, and a rather food-obsessed dog.
I'm thrilled with the cover by the amazing Maike Plenzke!
April 30, 2021
This was a very sweet story about a twelve year old girl and her friends trying to save wild animals. So cute!
April 20, 2021
I’ve been a fan of Terry Lynn Johnson for a while now. She’s known for adventurous books for young readers like Ice Dogs, Sled Dog School and Dog Driven. And my 7-year-old is completely enamored with Terry’s Survivor Diaries series. She’s keeps asking when the next book will come out.
I can’t think of a better recommendation that that.
Rescue at Lake Wild has a smaller scope, focusing mostly on Madi’s home, surrounding wild areas and town. The action’s a bit more sedate, but there are still a few breathtaking moments. What’s not different, however, is Terry’s ability to set a scene and her attention to detail. As a reader, you see the kits in front of you. You can practically feel them nuzzle up to you. The sights, the sounds, the smells, they’re all there.
Madi, Aaron and Jack are a delightful trio who balance each other out. They’ve all got their quirks, and that, along with Jack’s dog, Lid, make for some great interactions, mishaps and discoveries.
Rescue at Lake Wild celebrates friendship, ingenuity and nature. It will make an excellent addition to any reader’s growing library.
I can’t think of a better recommendation that that.
Rescue at Lake Wild has a smaller scope, focusing mostly on Madi’s home, surrounding wild areas and town. The action’s a bit more sedate, but there are still a few breathtaking moments. What’s not different, however, is Terry’s ability to set a scene and her attention to detail. As a reader, you see the kits in front of you. You can practically feel them nuzzle up to you. The sights, the sounds, the smells, they’re all there.
Madi, Aaron and Jack are a delightful trio who balance each other out. They’ve all got their quirks, and that, along with Jack’s dog, Lid, make for some great interactions, mishaps and discoveries.
Rescue at Lake Wild celebrates friendship, ingenuity and nature. It will make an excellent addition to any reader’s growing library.
April 10, 2021
With thanks to NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's Book Group for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Just today my 4th grade students were telling me what makes them want to keep reading a book....when it has animals, when new mysteries keep popping up during the story, and there are adventures throughout the story...Rescue at Lake Wild has all those things, so I'd say it's one kids will enjoy!
This is a quick middle grade read about friendship, family, and great lessons on taking care of the environment. This would make a great read at the beginning of summer to encourage kids to head outside and observe nature.
Just today my 4th grade students were telling me what makes them want to keep reading a book....when it has animals, when new mysteries keep popping up during the story, and there are adventures throughout the story...Rescue at Lake Wild has all those things, so I'd say it's one kids will enjoy!
This is a quick middle grade read about friendship, family, and great lessons on taking care of the environment. This would make a great read at the beginning of summer to encourage kids to head outside and observe nature.
June 25, 2022
Cute story about Madison whose Nana was an "animal whisperer" and Madison follows in her footsteps. She's not supposed to do things like try to save beaver kits who she thinks will die without her saving them. Jack and Avery are her partners in crime. Lid (my favorite character) is Jack's black lab who adds to the story, especially since I love dogs and own a couple myself. This is a fantastic book for younger kids to help them learn some important things about animals and caring for them in a crisis.
February 21, 2022
5/5
The perfect middle school read for the animal lover.
The perfect middle school read for the animal lover.
May 16, 2021
We have so many kids that will absolutely gobble this up! Lots of animals, a focus on environmentalism, and… did I mention all of the animals?
September 7, 2021
This book has everything I love about reading middle grade--excellent characters, family, friendship, action and adventure--with the addition of stewardship of our Earth which is close to my heart. I would have loved this novel as a kid too, especially after reading the backmatter and finding out how much this author based the events on her research and interviews with a wildlife rehabilitator that worked with beaver kits. I learned so much about beavers and want to know even more.
June 23, 2021
Terry Lynn Johnson's Rescue at Lake Wild is a delightful tale of friendship and environmental problem-solving. It's a tale of a young person seeing a societal problem and caring enough to try to do something about it.
Madison Lewis loves animals. Having helped her grandmother rescue and rehabilitate wildlife in the past, she has continued to try to help animals on her own after her grandmother's passing. But her parents have reached the end of their rope with her bringing home of stray animals. They've told Madi that if she brings home even one more stray animal she won't be able to go listen to Jane Goodall at an upcoming event.
Madi tries to keep her promise but when she discovers some orphaned beaver kits she can't help stepping up to help them. With the help of her friends, Jack and Aaron, she sets out to help the kits survive and figure out who murdered their parents. Jack, with his dream of becoming a game warden, sets out to collect evidence using his dog, Lid, to track the culprit. Meanwhile, Madi takes the kits home and hides them in a shed. She learns everything she can about beavers and the trouble they are causing the town. Localized flooding has created resentment toward the beavers and is likely the reason someone killed the beavers.
Hiding the kits from her parents is difficult and caring for them a lot more work than Madi anticipated. While caring for the kits, Madi conducts some experiments to see if the beavers can be lead to build their dams in certain areas to help prevent future flooding and lesson the conflict with locals. Just as she and her friends seem to be on the right track, she gets found out by her mother and it seems all her efforts will be for naught. But Madi isn't the type to give up when she cares so much.
I really enjoyed this tale of environmental activism. Madi and her friends are very likable characters even if their choice to hide the kits isn't the best. The details about beavers and caring for kits are fascinating and blended smoothly into the story. The relationship dynamics between Madi, Jack, and Aaron are amusing and add to the fun of the story as does the tension between Madi and her teenage sister. Johnson has created an entertaining, easy-to-read, story of a young person caring enough to step forward and do something. Highly recommended for young readers who enjoy animal stories.
Madison Lewis loves animals. Having helped her grandmother rescue and rehabilitate wildlife in the past, she has continued to try to help animals on her own after her grandmother's passing. But her parents have reached the end of their rope with her bringing home of stray animals. They've told Madi that if she brings home even one more stray animal she won't be able to go listen to Jane Goodall at an upcoming event.
Madi tries to keep her promise but when she discovers some orphaned beaver kits she can't help stepping up to help them. With the help of her friends, Jack and Aaron, she sets out to help the kits survive and figure out who murdered their parents. Jack, with his dream of becoming a game warden, sets out to collect evidence using his dog, Lid, to track the culprit. Meanwhile, Madi takes the kits home and hides them in a shed. She learns everything she can about beavers and the trouble they are causing the town. Localized flooding has created resentment toward the beavers and is likely the reason someone killed the beavers.
Hiding the kits from her parents is difficult and caring for them a lot more work than Madi anticipated. While caring for the kits, Madi conducts some experiments to see if the beavers can be lead to build their dams in certain areas to help prevent future flooding and lesson the conflict with locals. Just as she and her friends seem to be on the right track, she gets found out by her mother and it seems all her efforts will be for naught. But Madi isn't the type to give up when she cares so much.
I really enjoyed this tale of environmental activism. Madi and her friends are very likable characters even if their choice to hide the kits isn't the best. The details about beavers and caring for kits are fascinating and blended smoothly into the story. The relationship dynamics between Madi, Jack, and Aaron are amusing and add to the fun of the story as does the tension between Madi and her teenage sister. Johnson has created an entertaining, easy-to-read, story of a young person caring enough to step forward and do something. Highly recommended for young readers who enjoy animal stories.
December 1, 2022
Terry Lynn Johnson's books are always a treat to read. So informative, exciting and packed with lovely details about animals, in this case beavers. Taking care of a kit sounds like a daunting task. While they may be cute, they sure seem to be able to make a mess. I appreciate that Johnson included a Do's and Don'ts with wild animals. Montana has a wild wings recreational center and I really appreciate that places like this exist to rehabilitate and release animals back into the wild. The story really makes you think about the fragility of the environment and indirectly about being a good environmental steward. How it was important to have a balance between the beavers making their dam and minimizing their plugging up drain outlets and culverts. Madi is quite an ingenious problem solver, when her first solution doesn't work she tries another. Never one to give up. She deeply cares for animals and wants nothing more than to follow in her Nana's footsteps, I respect her dedication to animal rescue. I love how the story wove together facts about beavers, their familial traits, and how Johnson explains the risks of taking care of a wild animal, how it's important they be fed the right food, the right amount across the right space of time. This is truly a valuable story that highlights the importance of appreciating one's environment while also keeping it safe and clean. A must read for kids interested in animal rescuers, outdoor adventures or the environment.
**Thank you to BlueSlip media for the E-ARC access via Netgalley and the hard cover copy**
**Thank you to BlueSlip media for the E-ARC access via Netgalley and the hard cover copy**
June 19, 2021
Twelve-year-old Madi Lewis is known for rescuing animals. She’s banned from bringing any more home. When her and her friends Jack and Aaron find a mother beaver who was killed, Madi insists on finding her babies and saving them. Madi brings the two baby beavers home and hides them from her family. Madi and her friends look after the baby beavers while also searching for the person who shot the babies’ mother.
This is a great story to introduce children to looking after wildlife. Madi had some experience with helping her grandmother rescue wildlife, so she knew what to do with the baby beavers. She had to use her own knowledge to look after them, including mimicking what their mother would do to keep them warm and make them food. Interacting with wildlife can also be dangerous, so she had to be cautious while handling the babies.
This story reminded me of the Animal Ark series that I read when I was a kid. Those books were about kids rescuing and helping animals. These stories about kids helping animals can get them interested in going outside and learning about nature.
Rescue at Lake Wild is a great middle grade story!
Thank you HMH Books for Young Readers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great story to introduce children to looking after wildlife. Madi had some experience with helping her grandmother rescue wildlife, so she knew what to do with the baby beavers. She had to use her own knowledge to look after them, including mimicking what their mother would do to keep them warm and make them food. Interacting with wildlife can also be dangerous, so she had to be cautious while handling the babies.
This story reminded me of the Animal Ark series that I read when I was a kid. Those books were about kids rescuing and helping animals. These stories about kids helping animals can get them interested in going outside and learning about nature.
Rescue at Lake Wild is a great middle grade story!
Thank you HMH Books for Young Readers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2021
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an eARC edition of this book.
Canadian author Terry Lynn Johnson has written a younger middle-grade novel appealing to readers curious about animal rescues. Madi wants to be like her recently deceased Nana and become a wildlife rehabilitator. Her parents, however, have told her point-blank - no more rescues. When Madi and her two best friends Aaron and Jack, discover two orphaned beaver kits, she knows they are their only chance for survival. Now they have to learn how to care for them without their parents finding out, and they need to figure out who is killing the beavers.
Canadian author Terry Lynn Johnson has written a plot-driven story interspersed with tidbits of humour and incidents that this age group will laugh about, get a bit grossed-out (think leeches and bloodsuckers) and gain a greater appreciation of beavers. When finished with the book, readers will have a deeper understanding of beavers, their engineering skills and how they can change habitats. That is not to say we do not get to know Madi, Aaron and Jack. The three are friends who look out for one another and yet bicker amongst themselves and demand time for their own passions that comes across naturally and not forced. Each character has a unique family situation that they are working through and is relevant to this intended audience.
In the Author's Note, Ms. Johnson includes the stories of inspirations for the book, including sources she used to write, and readers should take the time to read this as it is both interesting and informative. Readers need to be critical thinkers and be aware of what is factual and what is not. The author's note lets readers understand the author's desire to have accurate and current information for their audience, and for this reviewer appreciated.
This novel would be suitable for a wide range of readers. It would make a captivating read-aloud for students as young as eight but can see students as old as eleven and twelve enjoying this book. The shorter length will be more enticing for many and may also act as a bridge for students wanting to get into a longer novel. I sincerely hope that we will see this as a series.
Canadian author Terry Lynn Johnson has written a younger middle-grade novel appealing to readers curious about animal rescues. Madi wants to be like her recently deceased Nana and become a wildlife rehabilitator. Her parents, however, have told her point-blank - no more rescues. When Madi and her two best friends Aaron and Jack, discover two orphaned beaver kits, she knows they are their only chance for survival. Now they have to learn how to care for them without their parents finding out, and they need to figure out who is killing the beavers.
Canadian author Terry Lynn Johnson has written a plot-driven story interspersed with tidbits of humour and incidents that this age group will laugh about, get a bit grossed-out (think leeches and bloodsuckers) and gain a greater appreciation of beavers. When finished with the book, readers will have a deeper understanding of beavers, their engineering skills and how they can change habitats. That is not to say we do not get to know Madi, Aaron and Jack. The three are friends who look out for one another and yet bicker amongst themselves and demand time for their own passions that comes across naturally and not forced. Each character has a unique family situation that they are working through and is relevant to this intended audience.
In the Author's Note, Ms. Johnson includes the stories of inspirations for the book, including sources she used to write, and readers should take the time to read this as it is both interesting and informative. Readers need to be critical thinkers and be aware of what is factual and what is not. The author's note lets readers understand the author's desire to have accurate and current information for their audience, and for this reviewer appreciated.
This novel would be suitable for a wide range of readers. It would make a captivating read-aloud for students as young as eight but can see students as old as eleven and twelve enjoying this book. The shorter length will be more enticing for many and may also act as a bridge for students wanting to get into a longer novel. I sincerely hope that we will see this as a series.
October 21, 2021
udding animal enthusiasts take note, you definitely want to get your hands on Terry Lynn Johnson’s new middle grade novel Rescue at Lake Wild if you are interested in animals and especially wildlife rehabilitation.
Madison Lewis is a 12 year old animal rehabber, at least she aspires to be one just like her grandmother. When she lost her grandma she has continued to feel a responsibility to the local wildlife but her well meaning actions are having some unintended consequences. So much so that she has been told she is never to bring home any wild animals again. When the local beaver population is being threatened by poachers Madison and her friends Jack and Aaron, jump into action, saving some baby kits and solving the case of the beaver poaching.
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. Terry Lynn Johnson’s passion for animals and knowledge about animal rehabilitation just leaps off the pages. Not only is this a fantastic story full of twists and turns, and the cutest little beaver kits, it is incredibly informative. I learned a ton about beavers and their behaviours through Madison. In the author’s note at the end, Terry Lynn describes how many of the different scenes in the story were inspired by real life events which just makes this book all the more delightful.
Rescue at Lake Wild is a fantastic buddy story as well. Madi, Jack and Aaron are a cohesive, incredibly supportive group of friends all with their strengths that when combined not only saves orphaned beaver kits but also solve the beaver problem and solve the case of the beaver poaching. Readers will be charmed from page 1. Also there are the most adorable little illustrations at the start of each chapter, courtesy of Maike Plenzke.
As a child who grew up in a rural area, just like Madi at a young age we were given tons of freedoms that children don’t necessarily get these days, especially children who grow up in the city. This story is filled with freedom and trust, something many middle grade readers are just feeling fro the first time. Hopefully Rescue at Lake Wild will inspire young readers to get outside and have adventures in their own backyards and further afield.
Madison Lewis is a 12 year old animal rehabber, at least she aspires to be one just like her grandmother. When she lost her grandma she has continued to feel a responsibility to the local wildlife but her well meaning actions are having some unintended consequences. So much so that she has been told she is never to bring home any wild animals again. When the local beaver population is being threatened by poachers Madison and her friends Jack and Aaron, jump into action, saving some baby kits and solving the case of the beaver poaching.
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. Terry Lynn Johnson’s passion for animals and knowledge about animal rehabilitation just leaps off the pages. Not only is this a fantastic story full of twists and turns, and the cutest little beaver kits, it is incredibly informative. I learned a ton about beavers and their behaviours through Madison. In the author’s note at the end, Terry Lynn describes how many of the different scenes in the story were inspired by real life events which just makes this book all the more delightful.
Rescue at Lake Wild is a fantastic buddy story as well. Madi, Jack and Aaron are a cohesive, incredibly supportive group of friends all with their strengths that when combined not only saves orphaned beaver kits but also solve the beaver problem and solve the case of the beaver poaching. Readers will be charmed from page 1. Also there are the most adorable little illustrations at the start of each chapter, courtesy of Maike Plenzke.
As a child who grew up in a rural area, just like Madi at a young age we were given tons of freedoms that children don’t necessarily get these days, especially children who grow up in the city. This story is filled with freedom and trust, something many middle grade readers are just feeling fro the first time. Hopefully Rescue at Lake Wild will inspire young readers to get outside and have adventures in their own backyards and further afield.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews