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Upside Down in the Jungle
Rebecca Stead, Newbery Medal-winning author of When You Reach Me , said this book is "brimming with surprises and grand adventure. Brave, smart, and full of heart, Madeline and Ruby are a gust of fresh air."
Mad's dad is the Bird Guy. He'll go anywhere to study birds. So when he's offered a bird-tracking job in Central America, his bags are packed and he's jungle bound.
But going bird tracking in the jungle and disappearing completely are very different things, and when the Very Strange and Incredibly Creepy Letter arrives, Mad can't shake the terrible feeling that her father is in trouble.
Roo, Mad's younger sister, is convinced that the letter is a coded message. And their mom is worried, because the letter doesn't sound like Dad at all. But Mad is sure it's a sign of something sinister.
The only way to get to the bottom of it is to go to Lava Bird Volcano and find their dad themselves. Though they never could have imagined what they're about to discover.
From new talent Helen Phillips, Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green is the story of what can happen when two sisters make some unusual friends, trust in each other, and bravely face a jungle of trouble all to bring their family back together.
Mad's dad is the Bird Guy. He'll go anywhere to study birds. So when he's offered a bird-tracking job in Central America, his bags are packed and he's jungle bound.
But going bird tracking in the jungle and disappearing completely are very different things, and when the Very Strange and Incredibly Creepy Letter arrives, Mad can't shake the terrible feeling that her father is in trouble.
Roo, Mad's younger sister, is convinced that the letter is a coded message. And their mom is worried, because the letter doesn't sound like Dad at all. But Mad is sure it's a sign of something sinister.
The only way to get to the bottom of it is to go to Lava Bird Volcano and find their dad themselves. Though they never could have imagined what they're about to discover.
From new talent Helen Phillips, Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green is the story of what can happen when two sisters make some unusual friends, trust in each other, and bravely face a jungle of trouble all to bring their family back together.
341 pages, Paperback
First published November 13, 2012
37 people are currently reading
767 people want to read
About the author
Helen Phillips
14 books846 followersHelen Phillips is the author of five books, including, most recently, the novel THE NEED. Her collection SOME POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS received the 2017 John Gardner Fiction Book Award. Her novel THE BEAUTIFUL BUREAUCRAT, a New York Times Notable Book of 2015, was a finalist for the New York Public Library’s Young Lions Award and the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. Her collection AND YET THEY WERE HAPPY was named a Notable Book by the Story Prize. She is also the author of the children's adventure novel HERE WHERE THE SUNBEAMS ARE GREEN. Helen is the recipient of a Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers’ Award and the Italo Calvino Prize, among others. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, the New York Times, and Tin House, and on Selected Shorts. She is an associate professor at Brooklyn College. www.helencphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 18, 2018
A cute book. A nice mix of travel, adventure and environmentalism. The denouement was a bit of a stretch, but it was still fun to read.
Popsugar challenge 2018: A book with your favorite color in the title
Popsugar challenge 2018: A book with your favorite color in the title
October 1, 2018
Wow!!! This book was so much fun!!! Filled with action and mystery and some romance.
Overall a very good book!!! This will keep you on the edge of your seat:) This could definitely be a series!!! 😁😁😁
Also- Me gusta las partes de español en el libro:)
Overall a very good book!!! This will keep you on the edge of your seat:) This could definitely be a series!!! 😁😁😁
Also- Me gusta las partes de español en el libro:)
February 27, 2017
Helen Phillips writes delightfully quirky adult books. This children's book (middle school age) is no different. The book opens with Mom (Sylvia), daughters Madeline (aka Mad) and Ruby (aka Roo) on an airplane that is about to land in the jungle in Costa Rica. They are accompanied by Ken/Neth, a consultant for the La Lava Resort and Spa. Mom and daughters have not heard in months from Dad (aka James or the Bird Man), an ornithologist the Resort, thru Ken/Neth, supposedly hired to document the local birds to help the Resort to prevent any other species going extinct like the Lava-Throated Volcano trogon. In fact, the last letter received was really creepy -- The Very Strange and Incredibly Creepy Letter -- and calls to the Resort only get messages supposedly from Dad.
Upon arrival at the Resort, they find they have a 3PM appointment with Dad, but when they see him, Dad acts really strange and after 8 minutes they are told (by the beautiful Resort manager) that they must leave so Dad can get back to work. So begins the mystery of the daughters figuring out what's wrong with Dad and saving the day, as well as preventing a volcano eruption and learning (or not) Spanish.
It me a while to get into middle school mode and just accept this book for what it was - a middle school adventure tale. And it is a good tale. The location provides a great location for an environmental lesson about endangered species in a tale full of magic. I loved that Roo's toes grew blossoms, more and more each day. The story is told from Mad's point of view. She's the older daughter -- 12 years old -- and doesn't ever grow blossoms from her toes. She thinks she's a coward but ends up (of course) doing something very brave. And, also of course, there is a 14-year old boy with beautiful golden eyes - Kyle - that Mad falls for. Kyle is bilingual and is hired to teach the Mad and Roo Spanish. His grandparents own the Lodge next to the Resort where Mom, Mad, and Roo stay, because kids aren't allowed at the Resort. Kyle becomes a major player in the adventure.
Wouldn't it be cool to have your toes sprout blossoms?
Upon arrival at the Resort, they find they have a 3PM appointment with Dad, but when they see him, Dad acts really strange and after 8 minutes they are told (by the beautiful Resort manager) that they must leave so Dad can get back to work. So begins the mystery of the daughters figuring out what's wrong with Dad and saving the day, as well as preventing a volcano eruption and learning (or not) Spanish.
It me a while to get into middle school mode and just accept this book for what it was - a middle school adventure tale. And it is a good tale. The location provides a great location for an environmental lesson about endangered species in a tale full of magic. I loved that Roo's toes grew blossoms, more and more each day. The story is told from Mad's point of view. She's the older daughter -- 12 years old -- and doesn't ever grow blossoms from her toes. She thinks she's a coward but ends up (of course) doing something very brave. And, also of course, there is a 14-year old boy with beautiful golden eyes - Kyle - that Mad falls for. Kyle is bilingual and is hired to teach the Mad and Roo Spanish. His grandparents own the Lodge next to the Resort where Mom, Mad, and Roo stay, because kids aren't allowed at the Resort. Kyle becomes a major player in the adventure.
Wouldn't it be cool to have your toes sprout blossoms?
January 24, 2022
I may be a bit biased, but I read this book when I was in the fourth grade I think. And I reread it at least 5 times in my childhood. And although I was young I understood pretty much everything that happened and I was so immersed in the story I finished it quicker than so many books in the past.
The main character really spoke to me in a way that made me relate to her on so many levels, feeling inadequate in so much of the book. It was a great way for me to escape from what was a little more than a difficult childhood and I adored the mystery and discoveries. I think its a thrilling story for younger readers and it will always have a special place in my heart.
This book is what inspired me to write and I will forever love the journey it took me.
The main character really spoke to me in a way that made me relate to her on so many levels, feeling inadequate in so much of the book. It was a great way for me to escape from what was a little more than a difficult childhood and I adored the mystery and discoveries. I think its a thrilling story for younger readers and it will always have a special place in my heart.
This book is what inspired me to write and I will forever love the journey it took me.
January 29, 2013
Oh, middle grade books, you are just so delightful. One of my goals this year is to read more of them, because I've had such good experiences with all of my middle grade selections. Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green is the latest success. Phillips' debut is enchanting, full of adventure, nature, and a little bit of magic.
For those who like to indulge wanderlust with fiction, Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green is a real treat. Set in the jungles of Central America, the descriptions are as lush and verdant as the landscape being described. Phillips captures both the beauty and the danger inherent in such a setting, from the poisonous bright-colored tree frogs to the daily monsoon-like rains. The descriptions bring this Central American jungle to life.
Using this setting, Phillips conveys important messages about modern society's treatment of the environment and extinction of natural species. In Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green, the two young heroines and Kyle, a new (cute) friend, team up to save a species of bird, the Lava-Throated Volcano Trogon, from final extinction. A Lazarus species, the LTVTs were already thought extinct once, but now they are being hunted to death for sinister purposes, and, for some reason, their father, a bird expert and lover, is involved. Phillips manages to get her environmental messages across organically, without any preaching.
My very favorite aspect of the story is the dose of magical realism that Helen Phillips added into the mix. La Lava, the plush resort Madeline and Ruby's father works for, is located next to an active volcano, one not believed to blow for another hundred years. However, this volcano's explosive tendencies correlate with the health of the LTVTs. If they die out, the volcano will explode. There are also these giant flowers that can be used as umbrellas if you push the right spot, and glowing mushrooms. These little magical touches really brought the story to life, adding a cinematic touch that middle graders will love.
Mad makes a rather unique heroine. Middle grade MCs tend to be funny and plucky kids, adventurous and brave. Mad, on the other hand, fears pretty much everything and envies the confidence and talents of her younger sister. Mad's jealousy of Roo does wear a bit thin, but I was so happy when Mad finally realized her own strengths. Roo does seem a little bit too magical and clever, though, so Mad's inferiority complex does make a bit of sense. For example, Roo picks up Spanish in just a couple days.
The plot follows pretty standard middle grade lines. Ruby and Mad's parents, while ordinarily loving and pleasant, have been made to act not like themselves. To restore their parents, Roo and Mad have to complete a quest, using ingenuity and determination. Along the way, Roo has a first crush. It's all very cute and empowering, if not anything out of the ordinary.
Helen Phillips transports you to another place and takes you on a journey through the jungles. Her skill at description and timely message make Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green a wonderful choice for middle grade readers (and older ones too).
For those who like to indulge wanderlust with fiction, Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green is a real treat. Set in the jungles of Central America, the descriptions are as lush and verdant as the landscape being described. Phillips captures both the beauty and the danger inherent in such a setting, from the poisonous bright-colored tree frogs to the daily monsoon-like rains. The descriptions bring this Central American jungle to life.
Using this setting, Phillips conveys important messages about modern society's treatment of the environment and extinction of natural species. In Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green, the two young heroines and Kyle, a new (cute) friend, team up to save a species of bird, the Lava-Throated Volcano Trogon, from final extinction. A Lazarus species, the LTVTs were already thought extinct once, but now they are being hunted to death for sinister purposes, and, for some reason, their father, a bird expert and lover, is involved. Phillips manages to get her environmental messages across organically, without any preaching.
My very favorite aspect of the story is the dose of magical realism that Helen Phillips added into the mix. La Lava, the plush resort Madeline and Ruby's father works for, is located next to an active volcano, one not believed to blow for another hundred years. However, this volcano's explosive tendencies correlate with the health of the LTVTs. If they die out, the volcano will explode. There are also these giant flowers that can be used as umbrellas if you push the right spot, and glowing mushrooms. These little magical touches really brought the story to life, adding a cinematic touch that middle graders will love.
Mad makes a rather unique heroine. Middle grade MCs tend to be funny and plucky kids, adventurous and brave. Mad, on the other hand, fears pretty much everything and envies the confidence and talents of her younger sister. Mad's jealousy of Roo does wear a bit thin, but I was so happy when Mad finally realized her own strengths. Roo does seem a little bit too magical and clever, though, so Mad's inferiority complex does make a bit of sense. For example, Roo picks up Spanish in just a couple days.
The plot follows pretty standard middle grade lines. Ruby and Mad's parents, while ordinarily loving and pleasant, have been made to act not like themselves. To restore their parents, Roo and Mad have to complete a quest, using ingenuity and determination. Along the way, Roo has a first crush. It's all very cute and empowering, if not anything out of the ordinary.
Helen Phillips transports you to another place and takes you on a journey through the jungles. Her skill at description and timely message make Here Where the Sunbeams Are Green a wonderful choice for middle grade readers (and older ones too).
January 7, 2014
A cross of The Penderwicks and The Mysterious Benedict Society, but not quite as well done as either. The one thing Phillips does the best is creating full, vibrant characters with feelings as real as the kids who are reading the book. She describes the scenery of the rain forest very well, making you feel right at home at the small motel Mad, Roo, and their mom are staying in. But it's far from a perfect book....
To me, the plot stutters and spurts, much like the volcano and its eruptions. It seems that the children go into the jungle to face certain danger while searching for their father, for the elusive bird, and they turn back without really ever having done anything. The aloofness of the mother was never really explained, and it was something I thought needed to be.
There were parts at the beginning where it was clear that the author was trying to insert liberal ideology into a kids book. As if... of course the mother would keep her maiden name. And that the most important part about Vivi, the superstar actress, was that she gave readily to environmental issues. There were just hints of it at the beginning, before the story really started. And it really ticked me off. I almost told myself that if that keeps up, I was going to stop reading it. I have thoroughly enjoyed books with environmental issues, but only if it's not thrown in my face. Read Cary Neeper's "The Webs of Varok" and "A Place Beyond Man," for books primarily concern with ecological balance but also with an amazing storyline.
But I'm giving the book 4 stars because I honestly enjoyed reading it. The ending was satisfying, the explanation from the author was genuine and fitting at the end. It could easily be a part of a series, with the same characters growing up and finding their own iniquities and strengths. At the end, while Madeline was realizing some of her fears, it reminded me of John Christopher's Tripod books, where the kids have fears and faults, and aren't afraid to bring them out. It's what makes this book worth reading, and worth kids reading, for all it's faults... it's a good book.
To me, the plot stutters and spurts, much like the volcano and its eruptions. It seems that the children go into the jungle to face certain danger while searching for their father, for the elusive bird, and they turn back without really ever having done anything. The aloofness of the mother was never really explained, and it was something I thought needed to be.
There were parts at the beginning where it was clear that the author was trying to insert liberal ideology into a kids book. As if... of course the mother would keep her maiden name. And that the most important part about Vivi, the superstar actress, was that she gave readily to environmental issues. There were just hints of it at the beginning, before the story really started. And it really ticked me off. I almost told myself that if that keeps up, I was going to stop reading it. I have thoroughly enjoyed books with environmental issues, but only if it's not thrown in my face. Read Cary Neeper's "The Webs of Varok" and "A Place Beyond Man," for books primarily concern with ecological balance but also with an amazing storyline.
But I'm giving the book 4 stars because I honestly enjoyed reading it. The ending was satisfying, the explanation from the author was genuine and fitting at the end. It could easily be a part of a series, with the same characters growing up and finding their own iniquities and strengths. At the end, while Madeline was realizing some of her fears, it reminded me of John Christopher's Tripod books, where the kids have fears and faults, and aren't afraid to bring them out. It's what makes this book worth reading, and worth kids reading, for all it's faults... it's a good book.
April 13, 2013
Note to self - Never start a book when you have taxes to finish. Today was a horrible day. I had to finish the taxes, but I was just a few chapters from the end of this book and I just did not want to put it down! I can't wait to share this book with students, because I loved it. I have an ARC version, so I looked to see when it was actually released because I would have loved to have seen this book as a contender for some of the awards.
Helen Phillips creates a world that you wonder about - are there really flowers that grow so big in the rainforest that they can be used as umbrellas? Was there once a strange love affair between a mortal and a goddess living in a volcano, and is there a bird as beautiful and elusive as the LTVT? Do flowers grow between your toes in the rainforest?
The characters each had their quirks, Mad's uneasiness and fears made her real. For once, here's a book where the older sister isn't the one "leading the way." Instead, that falls to magical little sister Roo, who seems fearless and bold, and yes, a bit manipulative, as little sisters can be. Then there's Kyle, a 14 year old boy hired to teach the girls Spanish, but leads the girls along an adventure that leads them closer to finding out what is going on with their dad who seems to have gone insane.
So, yes, I did finish the book - I used it as my "break away from the taxes" after about the 8th time that my Excel program shut down on me, losing information. Oh to traipse through the jungles instead of the jungle of receipts and W-2s that sat on my desk. I always did like green.
Helen Phillips creates a world that you wonder about - are there really flowers that grow so big in the rainforest that they can be used as umbrellas? Was there once a strange love affair between a mortal and a goddess living in a volcano, and is there a bird as beautiful and elusive as the LTVT? Do flowers grow between your toes in the rainforest?
The characters each had their quirks, Mad's uneasiness and fears made her real. For once, here's a book where the older sister isn't the one "leading the way." Instead, that falls to magical little sister Roo, who seems fearless and bold, and yes, a bit manipulative, as little sisters can be. Then there's Kyle, a 14 year old boy hired to teach the girls Spanish, but leads the girls along an adventure that leads them closer to finding out what is going on with their dad who seems to have gone insane.
So, yes, I did finish the book - I used it as my "break away from the taxes" after about the 8th time that my Excel program shut down on me, losing information. Oh to traipse through the jungles instead of the jungle of receipts and W-2s that sat on my desk. I always did like green.
February 1, 2013
Kept waiting to be wowed, never happened. Though a sweet, image-rich story, I found it quite predictable and wanted it to move faster than it did. Liked the relationship between the sisters and their ability to appreciate each other's strengths and foibles.
Probably most appropriate for up to Grade 6.
Probably most appropriate for up to Grade 6.
July 25, 2013
I couldn't get past the first 2 pages of this book. Rose really wanted to hear the story but the voice the author used in the story made me cringe. It's written in the first person of one of the girls and the tone of speaking is teenager-ish. I'm not sure how else to describe it. I want Rose to experience books with more sophistication. So, on to the next one!
January 24, 2013
Had definite slow periods where I considered abandoning it. I skimmed the last 20 pages just to see how it ended. ...eh.
January 29, 2020
siiiiiigh
I debated a lot about what I wanted to rate this and what I wanted to say about it. In the end, I think it deserves 3.5 stars. There's some things that really bugged me, but once I got into the story it was really hard to put down.
Before getting into spoilers, let's talk about the first couple of things that almost made me put the book down. There's a character you'll meet within the first page or two who is constantly referred to as Ken/Neth. I was so confused when I first saw this and wondered if it was an error in the book. Did the author debate whether to call him Ken or Neth and forget to change this instance? No...turns out it continues...and continues. Finally we're told the little story of why the narrator (main character) calls this guy Ken/Neth in her head. Great. Still bothered me to constantly see Ken/Neth throughout the story.
There were also several grammatical errors within the first 3 chapters of the book. A few words were broken onto two lines without a hypen that definitely should have been one word. A few sentences were structured oddly and two or three times I had to reread a sentence because of awkward verb tense.
Now, onto the other things that made me unsure of how I wanted to rate this...
Anyway, nitpicking aside, the story is really cute and I couldn't help but fall in love with the kiddos. The story really picks up in about chapter 3-4 and is hard to put down once it gets going. There's some suspense, a few surprises, and a lot of fun along the way. Worth a read even if it's not getting 5 stars from me.
I debated a lot about what I wanted to rate this and what I wanted to say about it. In the end, I think it deserves 3.5 stars. There's some things that really bugged me, but once I got into the story it was really hard to put down.
Before getting into spoilers, let's talk about the first couple of things that almost made me put the book down. There's a character you'll meet within the first page or two who is constantly referred to as Ken/Neth. I was so confused when I first saw this and wondered if it was an error in the book. Did the author debate whether to call him Ken or Neth and forget to change this instance? No...turns out it continues...and continues. Finally we're told the little story of why the narrator (main character) calls this guy Ken/Neth in her head. Great. Still bothered me to constantly see Ken/Neth throughout the story.
There were also several grammatical errors within the first 3 chapters of the book. A few words were broken onto two lines without a hypen that definitely should have been one word. A few sentences were structured oddly and two or three times I had to reread a sentence because of awkward verb tense.
Now, onto the other things that made me unsure of how I wanted to rate this...
Anyway, nitpicking aside, the story is really cute and I couldn't help but fall in love with the kiddos. The story really picks up in about chapter 3-4 and is hard to put down once it gets going. There's some suspense, a few surprises, and a lot of fun along the way. Worth a read even if it's not getting 5 stars from me.
February 14, 2020
A delightful tale of two sisters who fly to the jungle with their mom to find their dad who has been missing for several months. Madeline, twelve, and her sister, Ruby, nine are awestruck by the beauty of the jungle, but scared at the change in their dad when they finally get to see him. With a semi-active volcano in the background and unusual happenings confronting them, the sisters are determined to help free their dad. With their new friend, Kyle, they uncover the secret of LaLava Spa and the reason for both their parents' strange behavior
September 5, 2021
The amount of adventure in this book was nonstop and I was here for it! I loved the characters so much and the relationship the sisters had with each other! The bravery and imagination Roo has was so refreshing since it’s rare I pick up books like this! It’s actually my brothers second favorite book which is why I even read it and I’m happy I did! It’s rich with colors and sounds and making sure you’re able to feel the jungle atmosphere. I was happy to jump back into this world!!!! It just all felt so vibrant!!!!
November 30, 2018
I read this book back in 2013 and remember it fondly, for the most part. Really a very fun read.
Recently, my brother (middle school) has been getting more into, well, books that I like. So, on a whim, I loaned him this book. He read it in like two or three days and the first thing he did when he was done was ask me if there was a sequel.
Recently, my brother (middle school) has been getting more into, well, books that I like. So, on a whim, I loaned him this book. He read it in like two or three days and the first thing he did when he was done was ask me if there was a sequel.
December 14, 2018
I think this book was good and had an amazing plot. I really liked the unusual plants. What I liked most about them was that one flower can transforn into something useful. I also admire the adventure the two girls had on their journey. It taught me many valuable lesson in life and I would definitely read it again.
August 30, 2019
I loved this book! So adventurous and fun. A great read for young readers as well as old. I loved the sisterly bond and the curiosity that comes with being a child. Beautifully written and engaging!
September 26, 2022
Süßes Abenteuerbuch für junge Leser
October 15, 2024
I love this book! This was the second time I read it and I love the random romance in the end, and I think it’s such a fun book to read
June 8, 2025
Its a longer book and I stayed entertained and engaged
Read
October 11, 2025Beautifully written and wonderful plot with twists 9/10 recommend
October 13, 2013
The synopsis intrigued me and I was very excited to be able to read it months before the release. Here Where The Sunbeams Are Green is a joyful, lively tale of adventure and discovery. Rich with imagination, it’s sure to enthrall young readers and draw them into the place where the sunbeams are green.
Sisters Mad and Roo get on a plane with their mom to go and visit their father, who is studying a species of nearly extinct birds in the middle of a rain forest. Mad and Roo have a feeling that something more is going on since their father is acting Very Strange, writing Very Strange and Incredibly Creepy Letters and not sounding like himself at all. When they arrive at the island, everything slowly unfolds. The two sisters take on the task of unraveling what is going on and try to bring their family back together. Along the way they make some unexpected friends, see some unexpected creatures and plants and feel a bit bedazzled by the beauty and power of the rain forest. They are quickly drawn into the middle of the plot their father is in and have to find a way out..
This is one of those brilliantly built up tales that didn’t really work for me. While the writing was lovely, the storyline very imaginative and the feeling around the story great, it just didn’t connect with me the way I wanted it to. There were some moments that I absolutely adored, but there were also moments that I would want to skip over to get to the next part. I can’t really put my finger on it what that is exactly, but for me, it wasn’t the amazing tale I was hoping it to be.
Having said that, the whole ambiance in this story is brilliant. I loved the magical feel of the story, the way the Lava Bird Volcano was worked into the story and how everything worked together to create the plot. It’s a story of discovery, both for the girls themselves as for the discovery of what is going on and what is in this strange forest, and I’m sure this story will appeal to both boys and girls.
Find this review and others on Loving Books.
Sisters Mad and Roo get on a plane with their mom to go and visit their father, who is studying a species of nearly extinct birds in the middle of a rain forest. Mad and Roo have a feeling that something more is going on since their father is acting Very Strange, writing Very Strange and Incredibly Creepy Letters and not sounding like himself at all. When they arrive at the island, everything slowly unfolds. The two sisters take on the task of unraveling what is going on and try to bring their family back together. Along the way they make some unexpected friends, see some unexpected creatures and plants and feel a bit bedazzled by the beauty and power of the rain forest. They are quickly drawn into the middle of the plot their father is in and have to find a way out..
This is one of those brilliantly built up tales that didn’t really work for me. While the writing was lovely, the storyline very imaginative and the feeling around the story great, it just didn’t connect with me the way I wanted it to. There were some moments that I absolutely adored, but there were also moments that I would want to skip over to get to the next part. I can’t really put my finger on it what that is exactly, but for me, it wasn’t the amazing tale I was hoping it to be.
Having said that, the whole ambiance in this story is brilliant. I loved the magical feel of the story, the way the Lava Bird Volcano was worked into the story and how everything worked together to create the plot. It’s a story of discovery, both for the girls themselves as for the discovery of what is going on and what is in this strange forest, and I’m sure this story will appeal to both boys and girls.
Find this review and others on Loving Books.
January 31, 2013
I wanted to REALLY like it, but the 2 sisters kept throwing me off from REALLY liking it--something about the cowardice of Mad and the bravery/anger of Roo drove me nuts! Was it that they were too one-dimensional? Was it the (lack of) story arc? Was it because I am an oldest sister and don't like it when the relationship between the oldest sister/youngest sister is portrayed in such a light? Blech! Maybe it was because the parents were absent?
I know that parentals MUST be absent in books for adventures to take place (it's like storytelling rule #1), but the Mom in me freaks out(!) and hurts for these girls. Yikes. Calming down now. Anyway, maybe they will make a really horrible movie out of this and just destroy what could be a really cool book the rest of the way.... *sigh*
Positive things: the sisters fully love each other no matter; nature/ecology/the environment is important; the family loves each other and does try to care for each other (after everyone is done being brain-washed); the setting was awesome!; Spanish was used throughout in a fun way; a celebrity steps up and helps out, showing that they are more than just a shallow individual; evil people get punished in the end; Mad finds her bravery when it counts.
Negatives: the sisters disobey, lie, and break promises with no consequences!!!; the parents are largely absent (because of various adult choices) throughout the book and the girls suffer for this; swearing; drinking; Roo is a bit of a brat for most of the book and no one corrects her (you could argue extenuating circumstances, but there is also mention of her biting habit--where she draws blood!--and she is certainly old enough to know better by now).
All in all a bit of a mix for me.
I know that parentals MUST be absent in books for adventures to take place (it's like storytelling rule #1), but the Mom in me freaks out(!) and hurts for these girls. Yikes. Calming down now. Anyway, maybe they will make a really horrible movie out of this and just destroy what could be a really cool book the rest of the way.... *sigh*
Positive things: the sisters fully love each other no matter; nature/ecology/the environment is important; the family loves each other and does try to care for each other (after everyone is done being brain-washed); the setting was awesome!; Spanish was used throughout in a fun way; a celebrity steps up and helps out, showing that they are more than just a shallow individual; evil people get punished in the end; Mad finds her bravery when it counts.
Negatives: the sisters disobey, lie, and break promises with no consequences!!!; the parents are largely absent (because of various adult choices) throughout the book and the girls suffer for this; swearing; drinking; Roo is a bit of a brat for most of the book and no one corrects her (you could argue extenuating circumstances, but there is also mention of her biting habit--where she draws blood!--and she is certainly old enough to know better by now).
All in all a bit of a mix for me.
November 7, 2012
Middle grade readers will enjoy this exciting mystery, adventure book. Traveling to the heart of a Central American rain forest, sisters Mad and Roo, along with their mom and traveling companion, are on a mission to find out what's happened to Mad & Roo's father, who was offered a job to track and find rare birds. This lush jungle offers more than beauty, and the sisters find themselves face to face with villains, a mystery, and form an amazing bond during the process.
I love it when authors can write a book for kids that's full of adventure, danger and excitement by incorporating bites of realism with that of magic and a lot of imagination. This is a book I think young readers will really enjoy as they get to know more about Mad and Roo, and feel like they're right along side them on their mission to solve the mystery behind their father's absence and what's really going on within the canopies of this rain forest. I adored the relationship the two sisters have and form during this trip. While Mad is the more serious, insightful one, Roo is a little bit less uptight and a bit more fun. She brought the humor to all the right parts of the book. Together these two are fabulous. It's hard not to love them for who they are.
I thought this was a great read. I think it's one MG readers are going to enjoy. There are things they'll be able to relate to, other things they'll enjoy discovering, and over all it's a fun story to read about. I also liked the age appropriate crush that is woven into this story, the mystery, and the moments of danger and adventure this story has. It's one I'd recommend picking up.
I love it when authors can write a book for kids that's full of adventure, danger and excitement by incorporating bites of realism with that of magic and a lot of imagination. This is a book I think young readers will really enjoy as they get to know more about Mad and Roo, and feel like they're right along side them on their mission to solve the mystery behind their father's absence and what's really going on within the canopies of this rain forest. I adored the relationship the two sisters have and form during this trip. While Mad is the more serious, insightful one, Roo is a little bit less uptight and a bit more fun. She brought the humor to all the right parts of the book. Together these two are fabulous. It's hard not to love them for who they are.
I thought this was a great read. I think it's one MG readers are going to enjoy. There are things they'll be able to relate to, other things they'll enjoy discovering, and over all it's a fun story to read about. I also liked the age appropriate crush that is woven into this story, the mystery, and the moments of danger and adventure this story has. It's one I'd recommend picking up.
August 22, 2014
Sisters Mad (Madeline) and Roo (Ruby) haven't heard from their dad - a famous ornithologist called the "Bird Guy" - in months. He's been in Central America, searching for an almost-extinct species of bird called the Lava-Throated Volcano trogon at the famous La Lava Resort and Spa. Mad is worried because their dad's last letter was strange, a part of a series of strange happenings that she calls The Weirdness. The mystery only deepens when the sisters arrive at La Lava and discover that everyone, from the workers at the spa to their own dad, seems to be hiding something. Their only hope is the teenage Spanish tutor and jungle guide, Kyle, and his family's story about a volcano goddess and the magnificent bird that was once her true love...
I loved that this book had such a unique story, but it did drag somewhat in the middle of it and some aspects of the plot are never fully explained. Mad has a realistic twelve-year-old-girl voice as the narrator, although sometimes her anxiety and indecisiveness got a little annoying. In the end, I did like the way she was able to overcome her fears and grow as a character. The little sister Roo is also a very memorable (if slightly unrealistic) character, full of energy and curiosity. The setting was very well described so that sometimes I could almost feel the humidity of the jungle and smell its strange flowers.
This book is most appropriate for 4th to 7th graders (there is a little bit of romance). I would compare it to The Penderwicks (for the dynamic between the sisters) or The Great Unexpected (for straddling the line between realistic fiction and fantasy).
I loved that this book had such a unique story, but it did drag somewhat in the middle of it and some aspects of the plot are never fully explained. Mad has a realistic twelve-year-old-girl voice as the narrator, although sometimes her anxiety and indecisiveness got a little annoying. In the end, I did like the way she was able to overcome her fears and grow as a character. The little sister Roo is also a very memorable (if slightly unrealistic) character, full of energy and curiosity. The setting was very well described so that sometimes I could almost feel the humidity of the jungle and smell its strange flowers.
This book is most appropriate for 4th to 7th graders (there is a little bit of romance). I would compare it to The Penderwicks (for the dynamic between the sisters) or The Great Unexpected (for straddling the line between realistic fiction and fantasy).
October 27, 2012
INTITIAL THOUGHTS: This book was different. Its appealing for its tropical rain forest setting and extinction subject matter. The characters were loveable, a joy to read about. I really began to sympathize with the girl's situation immediately. At times the story moved quickly, I rushed through the pages dying to know what was going on, the element of mystery was ever present and alluring. Other times the story did drag a little, focusing a wee bit too much on rain forest details or subplot lines. This is one of those stories which could have probably been told in less pages. The puppy love in the story between the MC and her crush ended up being extrememly cute. My favorite character, Ruby, (Roo) never gave up, feared almost nothing and kept everyone laughing. It was also refreshing to read about an MC who was insightful that whenever faced with a perilous situation found a way to use calm and collective reasoning to sift through it all.
Full Review to Post to the blog:
My Precious
www.thecallawyafam.blogspot.com
Full Review to Post to the blog:
My Precious
www.thecallawyafam.blogspot.com
December 4, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book because I like reading mystery books. When characters were trying to solve the mystery of their lost father, they faced lots of challenges. Those settings were very excited and made me want to read more further. When all the mysteries were solved at last, I was very moved by it. Each word the author used described the setting specifically, and made me feel like I was actually inside the story. This book contained not only mystery, but fantasy. I know all the magic happens in the story aren't real, but it was too realistic I felt like it might actually happen in real life. The moral/theme of the story was eventually friendship or importance of believing in people around us. It taught me lots of things and reminded me of the importance of friends. However, it was a little challenging for me to read the whole story since I was still in year five when I read this book for my project. I think if I read this book again right now, I might understand the story better and know new things I left back then. It was a great adventurous story!
July 29, 2018
This book is the first i’ve read after a very long vacation away from reading. I love the fact that the story does not revolve around the main character alone but also Roo, Kyle and everything else despite being narrated in first person point of view. I also love the details, actually it is very detailed, esp the jungle. One can actually see the beauty of the jungle with the narration. When I finished reading this, my instict was to look for a sequel. I want to know if there was a chance that the Wade family visited the Villaloboses, if Kyle and Mad actually got together (well, Señora V gave a hint that Mad would be able to speak fluent Spanish and that is something she is bound to learn when she marries someone from a Spanish lineage like Kyle) and if the remaining LTVT are able to raise their numbers and many more. And I love Vivi’s character. There is only one thing I dislike thus the 4 star rating, I dont understand the conversation in Spanish, it leaves me clueless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2015
Here Where the Sunbeams are Green by Helen Phillips - Ecological Adventure/Realistic Fiction – 4th grade and up – How much I loved these characters. This adventure. That perfect sister friendship balance which is highlighted thoughout the book with a beautiful adventure leading the way. I love the mysteries, codes, empathy and compassion this story portrays. You quickly meet Mad who is missing her father, an ornithologist, who had a new bird tracking job in South America. Her younger sister Roo is certain that something is wrong with their father after a mysterious letter is sent to the girls and then no other communications occur. The mother and girls decide they need to find out what happened themselves and go on a trip to South America to find out what is going on. How they girls bravery and empathy help them solve problems and mysteries is quite compelling throughout this book.
November 21, 2012
From the first sentence I was whisked into and adventure that was fast moving, intense at times and yet full of humor. My kind of book. I love Mad's and Roo's relationship. Roo is everything I wish I could have been in middle grade, fearless, smart and funny. I identified, as I'm sure others will, to Mad's angst and desire to stay out of the way, avoiding any attention toward herself. When Mad has the first stirrings of attraction for Golden-Eyed Boy, the nervousness and new feelings are believable and age appropriate. This is one of those books that you want to keep reading because something happens on every single page. A great read with lots of surprises.
See complete review at http://soimfifty.blogspot.com/2012/11...
See complete review at http://soimfifty.blogspot.com/2012/11...
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