New ebooks From Canadian Indies
Description
Justine McKeen is back, and she’s on a deadline. With only days left before Earth Day, Justine enlists the help of her classmates to count flower buds, frogs, spiders and ants in their natural habitat as part of an environmental science project. But there’s a species right in her own classroom that she’ll have to tackle first--a class bully. Savannah Blue, aka the Queen of Mean, criticizes Justine’s secondhand clothes and calls being green a waste of time. Their teacher, Mrs. Howie, gives the girls a new assignment for Earth Day--they must present together to the class on why it’s important to care for the environment. In the sixth book in this bestselling series, Justine is up against her biggest challenge yet--can she convince the Queen of Mean to go green?
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 6 to 8
- Grade:
- 1 to 3
- Reading age:
- 6 to 8
Awards
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Editorial Reviews
"The story carries through conflict, misunderstandings, humorous moments, and some soul searching to a happy conclusion. Along the way, interesting nature tidbits are deftly inserted in the story...The illustrations by Dave Whamond are cartoonish and light-hearted and accent the humorous aspects of the story. This book is highly recommended for both school and public libraries. Although it is sixth in a series it can be read as a stand-alone story. However once readers are introduced to Justine and her friends, they will want to read the other five books."
— Resource Links
"For her latest project, activist Justine tries to organize a student-run species count. But first she must convince new student and bully Savannah that caring for the environment matters. The plot provides a framework for explaining species interconnectivity, and the back matter includes links to apps and websites for science observers...The abundant humor keeps the tale quick and readable. Short chapters, plentiful black-and-white illustrations, and Justine’s indeterminate age make the book suitable for older, struggling readers."
— Booklist
"In his series of Justine McKeen books, Sigmund Brouwer introduces readers to the likeable, determined character of Justine who is passionate about taking care of her environment...Illustrations by Dave Whamond every three to four pages help to confirm understanding for young readers. At the end of the book, author Brouwer suggests apps and websites for observing wildlife in its natural environment."
— CM Magazine
