Save Our Forest!

June 15, 2024
When the impact of climate change hits home, students organize and fight back in this translated title from Norway. Bao, who first appeared in D�snes' debut, the Stonewall Award-winning Cross My Heart and Never Lie (2023), is back with her own story. The three best friends, Bao, Tuva, and Linn�a, along with other students, often play in the woods adjacent to their school. But increased rainfall is changing the landscape of their bog. As Bao soon learns, these changes are also driving the school leadership to make plans for a larger parking lot, which would eliminate half the forest. As student council president and one of the most passionate advocates for the bog, Bao becomes frustrated with the inaction of the adults around her and the perceived indifference of her friends and classmates. But successful social movements require cooperation and creativity, and before long, she and her friends are building an unlikely coalition to make real change. While this story does stand alone, and Bao's journey feels effective and true to character, readers will benefit from the context provided in the first book, which will help them better appreciate the characters' growth. The illustrations effectively incorporate texting, social media, and the friends' reports to create an appealing, well-paced narrative, and the moody, fluid color palette sets the tone perfectly. Bao is cued Vietnamese Norwegian; the rest of the cast appears racially diverse. A powerful blueprint for budding activists. (guide to being heard, sources) (Graphic fiction. 9-13)

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Starred review from July 1, 2024
Grades 4-8 *Starred Review* D�snes' second graphic novel is a delightful follow-up to Cross My Heart and Never Lie, featuring Bao as the protagonist. This time, Bao is on a mission to save the bog and forest from adults who want to build a new parking lot. In a world grappling with environmental crises, Bao's story is both timely and inspiring. Can she rally her classmates to prevent the destruction of their beloved forest? The book strikes a beautiful balance between humor and political activism, showcasing the power young people hold. D�snes effectively conveys that, even before they can vote, young people can make a difference through civil disobedience. Alongside the main plot, Bao navigates personal challenges, including struggles communicating with her mother and potential feelings for Abdi, her enemy turned partner-in-crime. However, Bao's focus remains on the urgent matter-at-hand--the environmental campaign. With stunning illustrations by D�snes herself, featuring a vivid palette of greens and blues with charming, informative doodles, this book is visually captivating. This is perfect for middle-grade readers who want to make their voices heard. This book is a great addition to any library, especially for middle-grade trailblazers inspired by figures like Greta Thunberg.

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