Save the Loonies

by Joyce Milton

Invited by her friend Nicole's family to spend a week at a New Hampshire lake, twelve-year-old Jenny becomes involved with the plight of loons and family tensions.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

Joyce Milton is the author of several noted juvenile biographies, as well as the prize-winning novel, Save the Loonies.

Reviews

[Bella Junaidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

it is old and feels amazing because this book can took me to that time

[Brenda Powles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember reading this book over and over when I was 12. I just loved this book. I'm glad it's still out there.

[Tania · Rating 5 out of 5]

With her novel geared for middle graders, Joyce Milton tells a story about childhood and families set against the beautiful backdrop of a remote area in New Hampshire. Young Jenny takes a 4th of July trip with her new friend Nicole and her family to their summer cabin. This city girl and only child finds herself in unfamiliar territory when she joins the close-knit, athletic family in their stomping grounds. Soon, though, she realizes they are all in the same boat - the family's underlying troubles are shaking things up for everyone. Jenny learns that the family may be as endangered as the family of loons that is hatching chicks nearby, and she wonders which family can be saved, or if either can.

This book is a childhood favorite of mine. The storyline about saving the loons threads itself through the rest of the plot about the humans and their sense of family. The friendship and conflicts between Jenny and Nicole are very realistic, and the tension in the family is palpable and honest as they struggle to overcome very real issues. The author also fleshes out the insecurities Jenny and Nicole face as girls entering their teen years. As a kid I was more focused on the loons and their plight, but as an adult I can appreciate all parts of the story equally.

[Partridge Public]

Milton, Joyce

[Trudi · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I read this book as a kid, I wanted to see a loon and still haven't. It's interesting how some things stick with you.