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The Climate Diaries #1
The Academy
"There’s an oceanside helipad, futuristic research elements, and a nature preserve to pique interest...the academy is fun to explore...with its background tension set in motion via a missing climatologist and threats from shadowy figures, this is a fascinating start to a science-minded series." —Foreword Clarion Review
"This book gave me all the best Spy Kids vibes and was full of fast-paced adventure...and that cliffhanger! I'm looking forward to seeing what's next in store for our Climate Action Task Force! I also adored the illustrations from artist Adrienn Harto!" -Beaches and Reads
Super Hurricanes. Raging wildfires. Boiling oceans. As global temperatures skyrocket, a two-degree rise becomes unavoidable. Is the next generation up to the challenge?
At the Climate Action Taskforce, solving the climate crisis is about more than just predicting the next superstorm. It’s about safeguarding the future of humanity. For its Academy, their secret mission is even more desperate, and when the founder who started it all mysteriously disappears, it’s a race against time to develop the brightest young minds of the century -before it’s too late.
For eleven-year-old genius troublemaker Jax Wilkinson, fighting back against bullies has cost him big time. Having pulled his last prank, he’s given an impossible choice when the authorities get involved.
No screens, no contact with the outside world… and no second chances. Can Jax make the cut?
Joining forces with teammates Grace, August, and Kylie, Team 19 must learn to work together to hack it at the Academy- and to survive a catastrophe beyond their wildest fears.
“...This story has potential appeal as it aligns with current trends in youth fiction… comedic dialogue and Harto’s black and white illustrations throughout the book are consistently humorous and engaging.” - Kirkus Reviews
"4.7/5 stars!" Mark Buxton, YA Books Central
"This book gave me all the best Spy Kids vibes and was full of fast-paced adventure...and that cliffhanger! I'm looking forward to seeing what's next in store for our Climate Action Task Force! I also adored the illustrations from artist Adrienn Harto!" -Beaches and Reads
Super Hurricanes. Raging wildfires. Boiling oceans. As global temperatures skyrocket, a two-degree rise becomes unavoidable. Is the next generation up to the challenge?
At the Climate Action Taskforce, solving the climate crisis is about more than just predicting the next superstorm. It’s about safeguarding the future of humanity. For its Academy, their secret mission is even more desperate, and when the founder who started it all mysteriously disappears, it’s a race against time to develop the brightest young minds of the century -before it’s too late.
For eleven-year-old genius troublemaker Jax Wilkinson, fighting back against bullies has cost him big time. Having pulled his last prank, he’s given an impossible choice when the authorities get involved.
No screens, no contact with the outside world… and no second chances. Can Jax make the cut?
Joining forces with teammates Grace, August, and Kylie, Team 19 must learn to work together to hack it at the Academy- and to survive a catastrophe beyond their wildest fears.
“...This story has potential appeal as it aligns with current trends in youth fiction… comedic dialogue and Harto’s black and white illustrations throughout the book are consistently humorous and engaging.” - Kirkus Reviews
"4.7/5 stars!" Mark Buxton, YA Books Central
- GenresChildrens
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2024
About the author
Aaron Arsenault
2 books8 followersAaron Arsenault is a citizen of Mother Earth, a climate-tech industry veteran, and a concerned dad. His passion for the environment coupled with a lack of inspirational material for young readers on the topic influenced him to become a writer of middle grade climate fiction. When he’s not writing, Aaron enjoys the outdoors, playing guitar, painting, and planning his next adventure. Aaron studied children’s writing and illustration as a postgraduate at the University of Toronto. He lives with his family and a goofy goldendoodle in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Find out more about him at his website: www.aaronarsenault.com
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 29, 2024
Jax is an eleven-year-old kid in his last year of elementary school. He is a genius, but he is also a well-known troublemaker who relishes in exacting bigger and better revenge on his teacher, dubbed The Curmudgeon. Unfortunately, his biggest prank on the last day of school ends him in so much trouble that he gets faced with a choice: summer at juvenile detention, or The Academy. But Jax’s revenge tendencies are still the same, even on the remote secret island. Not to mention some suspicious things that seem to be happening in the background.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even if I am so far removed from its target audience. I did have my 10-year-old nephew in mind while reading, and I kept trying to imagine how he would relate to the characters.
One of the biggest achievements of this story is presenting the concept of climate change to a young audience, and illustrating its inevitable effects on the world in a way they can understand.
Additionally, it shows them that they can do quite a lot to help combat climate change and create a better world for them and everyone around them.
So, that's just another mystery added on top of the massive cliffhanger that’s making me anxiously await the next book in the series.
One last note, the book is beautifully illustrated! I read an eARC, and I can only imagine how much better it would look in print!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even if I am so far removed from its target audience. I did have my 10-year-old nephew in mind while reading, and I kept trying to imagine how he would relate to the characters.
One of the biggest achievements of this story is presenting the concept of climate change to a young audience, and illustrating its inevitable effects on the world in a way they can understand.
Additionally, it shows them that they can do quite a lot to help combat climate change and create a better world for them and everyone around them.
So, that's just another mystery added on top of the massive cliffhanger that’s making me anxiously await the next book in the series.
One last note, the book is beautifully illustrated! I read an eARC, and I can only imagine how much better it would look in print!
March 15, 2024
What worked:
The topic focuses on climate change and the opposing views that are debating the issue. Jax is the main character and he’s recruited by CAT, a secret world organization combating the causes and effects of climate change. Short chapters mixed in share the view that any atmospheric changes are natural and humans are overreacting to normal weather patterns. Efforts to improve pollution and global warming will cost trillions of dollars and people will lose jobs that are dependent on fossil fuels. Their attitude is that we shouldn’t thank businesses that have given us everyday fuel sources and plastics by forcing them to close due to environmental concerns. The book blends information about climate change throughout the plot so readers will learn something while being entertained. The mid-term project for the recruits is to find a way to decrease methane emissions in cow farts!
The introduction of CAT, the Climate Action Taskforce, to the story makes it sound like a CIA operation. Agents dressed in black suits and dark glasses arrive at Jax’s home and present him with a choice between going to juvenile detention or attending the Academy. He’ll be trained there to become a CAT agent. The agents show up in a solar-powered, bulletproof, amphibious car with an exoskeleton made from tungsten. Academy candidates are flown in a windowless drone to an unidentified location, somewhere in the world. The secrecy and high tech of CAT are reminiscent of a covert government agency. There are clues provided about the Academy director that will make readers think he’s a shady character.
Jax is an intriguing character due to his diverse attitudes toward saving the environment and intolerance for bullies. He’s a genius but he doesn’t play well with others! Another recruit named Grace may be more interesting though. She has a superior, condescending attitude and immediately begins calling Jax, August, and Kylie nerds because of their knowledge and excitement about the environment. Grace says she attended the Academy the previous year but it’s clear she didn’t stay for the whole thing. She interrupts the counselor whenever he mentions her past participation so Jax realizes she’s hiding something. It doesn’t help that Grace is chosen captain over him so Jax is determined to prove himself superior to her at any cost. Their ongoing feud will keep readers wondering how bad it will get.
What didn’t work as well:
Jax is a difficult protagonist to root for. He’s arrogant and self-centered, and he doesn’t like being shown up by anyone else. He gets pleasure from antagonizing the people he targets. Jax doesn’t do well with rules and limits and he quickly gets offended or annoyed by authority. While his behavior and attitude make him difficult to like, these qualities help the plot’s conflict grow and increase the tension. Hopefully, the events at the end of the book will cause Jax to change his combative ways in the sequel.
The final verdict:
The cow fart methane problem is real; there was a story about it on my local news program this morning! The author skillfully includes facts about the climate crisis without making it annoying or overwhelming for readers. Jax’s personality is hard to tolerate but it certainly helps keep readers interested. I highly recommend you give it a shot! Can’t wait for the sequel.
The topic focuses on climate change and the opposing views that are debating the issue. Jax is the main character and he’s recruited by CAT, a secret world organization combating the causes and effects of climate change. Short chapters mixed in share the view that any atmospheric changes are natural and humans are overreacting to normal weather patterns. Efforts to improve pollution and global warming will cost trillions of dollars and people will lose jobs that are dependent on fossil fuels. Their attitude is that we shouldn’t thank businesses that have given us everyday fuel sources and plastics by forcing them to close due to environmental concerns. The book blends information about climate change throughout the plot so readers will learn something while being entertained. The mid-term project for the recruits is to find a way to decrease methane emissions in cow farts!
The introduction of CAT, the Climate Action Taskforce, to the story makes it sound like a CIA operation. Agents dressed in black suits and dark glasses arrive at Jax’s home and present him with a choice between going to juvenile detention or attending the Academy. He’ll be trained there to become a CAT agent. The agents show up in a solar-powered, bulletproof, amphibious car with an exoskeleton made from tungsten. Academy candidates are flown in a windowless drone to an unidentified location, somewhere in the world. The secrecy and high tech of CAT are reminiscent of a covert government agency. There are clues provided about the Academy director that will make readers think he’s a shady character.
Jax is an intriguing character due to his diverse attitudes toward saving the environment and intolerance for bullies. He’s a genius but he doesn’t play well with others! Another recruit named Grace may be more interesting though. She has a superior, condescending attitude and immediately begins calling Jax, August, and Kylie nerds because of their knowledge and excitement about the environment. Grace says she attended the Academy the previous year but it’s clear she didn’t stay for the whole thing. She interrupts the counselor whenever he mentions her past participation so Jax realizes she’s hiding something. It doesn’t help that Grace is chosen captain over him so Jax is determined to prove himself superior to her at any cost. Their ongoing feud will keep readers wondering how bad it will get.
What didn’t work as well:
Jax is a difficult protagonist to root for. He’s arrogant and self-centered, and he doesn’t like being shown up by anyone else. He gets pleasure from antagonizing the people he targets. Jax doesn’t do well with rules and limits and he quickly gets offended or annoyed by authority. While his behavior and attitude make him difficult to like, these qualities help the plot’s conflict grow and increase the tension. Hopefully, the events at the end of the book will cause Jax to change his combative ways in the sequel.
The final verdict:
The cow fart methane problem is real; there was a story about it on my local news program this morning! The author skillfully includes facts about the climate crisis without making it annoying or overwhelming for readers. Jax’s personality is hard to tolerate but it certainly helps keep readers interested. I highly recommend you give it a shot! Can’t wait for the sequel.
April 20, 2024
Current Bookseller, former meteorologist here. This novel was an average middle-grade read in my opinion. Child tech-prodigy, Jax, gets in trouble with his school (and the law) while seeking revenge against a grump-of-a-teacher who is always unimpressed with his antics. He is given two choices: go to juvie or join a mysterious organization called the Climate Action Taskforce and use his skills for the good of the planet. In choosing to go with the taskforce, Jax meets other earth-loving youngsters like him from all walks of life. August is a nice, nerdy Canadian, Kylie is a granola-loving Australian, and fellow America, Gracie, is the veteran of the group, unimpressed with the new fellow recruits. Can Team 19 iron out the kinks in their teamwork processes and learn to work together while at the Academy and beyond?
I really enjoyed the idea of this book. This book includes mentions of cow farts and other kid-oriented, real-life climate facts as well as innovative solutions dreamed up by Team 19 members that are too cool for school. I would have loved this book growing up. The idea of the Climate Action Taskforce is fun- it gave me serious Spy Kids vibes, and as someone who has worked in the climate science realm, it is wonderful to read about a lightly science fiction world where kids are empowered to lend their skills to solve the climate crisis.
I did struggle to relate to the main character, Jax. I feel like kids books have to walk a tightrope with their main characters being rule-breaking, cool kids so that children are excited by them but also show their main characters growing and learning morals through the consequences of their actions, so that parents will approve of them. This novel swung wildly to the former side- Jax at one point hacks into a car and drives it off a cliff and the consequences are that he gets to become a climate wunderkind. Some of the side characters are also incredibly stereotypical, leading to an inauthentic feeling at times. This is the first book of the series, so perhaps this novel is establishing a baseline for each of the characters and future novels will highlight their growth as individuals.
I'd give this middle-grade book a 3/5, but with the caveat that I will most likely be keeping an eye out for the sequel to see how Jax and the rest of Team 19 evolve together.
I really enjoyed the idea of this book. This book includes mentions of cow farts and other kid-oriented, real-life climate facts as well as innovative solutions dreamed up by Team 19 members that are too cool for school. I would have loved this book growing up. The idea of the Climate Action Taskforce is fun- it gave me serious Spy Kids vibes, and as someone who has worked in the climate science realm, it is wonderful to read about a lightly science fiction world where kids are empowered to lend their skills to solve the climate crisis.
I did struggle to relate to the main character, Jax. I feel like kids books have to walk a tightrope with their main characters being rule-breaking, cool kids so that children are excited by them but also show their main characters growing and learning morals through the consequences of their actions, so that parents will approve of them. This novel swung wildly to the former side- Jax at one point hacks into a car and drives it off a cliff and the consequences are that he gets to become a climate wunderkind. Some of the side characters are also incredibly stereotypical, leading to an inauthentic feeling at times. This is the first book of the series, so perhaps this novel is establishing a baseline for each of the characters and future novels will highlight their growth as individuals.
I'd give this middle-grade book a 3/5, but with the caveat that I will most likely be keeping an eye out for the sequel to see how Jax and the rest of Team 19 evolve together.
March 12, 2024
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Borrowed Planet Press for giving me this opportunity.
The Climate Diaries: The Academy is about a 12-year-old boy who is too smart for his own good and is given the opportunity to put his brilliance to use at the academy which focuses on climate issues and how to help the crisis the Earth is facing.
The main character, Jax, gets into a lot of trouble and he gives the impression that he believes he is above the law and doesn’t think of the consequences of his actions which plays a major part throughout this book. He’s a very unlikable and immature character throughout the book and only thinks of getting his own way by doing whatever he can to achieve it.
Grace has an antagonistic role and butts heads with Jax throughout the book. She comes from a broken family and is just doing what she can to get by even if it means breaking some rules.
August I found to be a likeable character, and he seems to be the one keeping the peace between the team. He does what is right, even if it means going against his friends.
Kylie, When I read she was Australian, I was happy about that as I'm Australian too. When she had her first line of dialogue she sounded exactly like a stereotype. She uses words that barely any kid her age does, even if she did come from somewhat of a holistic background. I had to even look up one of the words she used as I had never heard of it before. This stereotype that Kylie falls into feels like it's been pulled from an episode of the Simpsons and shows a partial lack of research that went into a ten-year-old Australian girl. Some of the Australian parts of Kylie’s story are very under researched. Kangaroos and Koalas are dangerous for starters. Jax, August, and Grace, in the beginning, are almost rude to what is described as the Australian way of life and what the Indigenous population did before colonisation.
Overall, this book was a little hard to get through but I’m willing to give the second one a chance and see how some of the plotlines are resolved.
The Climate Diaries: The Academy is about a 12-year-old boy who is too smart for his own good and is given the opportunity to put his brilliance to use at the academy which focuses on climate issues and how to help the crisis the Earth is facing.
The main character, Jax, gets into a lot of trouble and he gives the impression that he believes he is above the law and doesn’t think of the consequences of his actions which plays a major part throughout this book. He’s a very unlikable and immature character throughout the book and only thinks of getting his own way by doing whatever he can to achieve it.
Grace has an antagonistic role and butts heads with Jax throughout the book. She comes from a broken family and is just doing what she can to get by even if it means breaking some rules.
August I found to be a likeable character, and he seems to be the one keeping the peace between the team. He does what is right, even if it means going against his friends.
Kylie, When I read she was Australian, I was happy about that as I'm Australian too. When she had her first line of dialogue she sounded exactly like a stereotype. She uses words that barely any kid her age does, even if she did come from somewhat of a holistic background. I had to even look up one of the words she used as I had never heard of it before. This stereotype that Kylie falls into feels like it's been pulled from an episode of the Simpsons and shows a partial lack of research that went into a ten-year-old Australian girl. Some of the Australian parts of Kylie’s story are very under researched. Kangaroos and Koalas are dangerous for starters. Jax, August, and Grace, in the beginning, are almost rude to what is described as the Australian way of life and what the Indigenous population did before colonisation.
Overall, this book was a little hard to get through but I’m willing to give the second one a chance and see how some of the plotlines are resolved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2024
Full review at: https://readingourshelves.wordpress.c...
This book is about kids who are 11 and 12 years old, so there were some points in it that I would have sided more with their parents and teachers. The opening stunt pulled by the main character, Jax, made me totally cringe! And realistically, should have landed his butt in juvenile detention. But, he is offered a chance to use his brain to kind of “work off” his detention by spending his summer break at CAT (Climate Action Taskforce) HQ instead.
On the way there, he meets his future teammates – August is from Canada, Grace from Boston, and Kylie from Australia. The remote location – an island, in fact – has been terraformed to include many different climates and landscapes. Here, the students and adults alike will be continuing work toward finding new solutions for various climate-related problems.
There are definitely passages in here that seem a bit “preachy” to me – an adult who already believes that climate change is real – but I could see how they may be informative to a person who is just learning about these topics. And some of the science and tech ideas are fun and cool. For example: at one point, Jax develops a type of algae that, when fed to a cow, eliminates its methane output.
The stumbling block for the team, though, is that Jax and Grace are both stubborn and want to be in charge. They honestly never get to a point where they are working together, and ultimately the whole team suffers for it.
This book ends with cliffhanger, so I won’t go any further than that. Instead, we’ll just say to expect to see their further adventures detailed in a later book.
This book is about kids who are 11 and 12 years old, so there were some points in it that I would have sided more with their parents and teachers. The opening stunt pulled by the main character, Jax, made me totally cringe! And realistically, should have landed his butt in juvenile detention. But, he is offered a chance to use his brain to kind of “work off” his detention by spending his summer break at CAT (Climate Action Taskforce) HQ instead.
On the way there, he meets his future teammates – August is from Canada, Grace from Boston, and Kylie from Australia. The remote location – an island, in fact – has been terraformed to include many different climates and landscapes. Here, the students and adults alike will be continuing work toward finding new solutions for various climate-related problems.
There are definitely passages in here that seem a bit “preachy” to me – an adult who already believes that climate change is real – but I could see how they may be informative to a person who is just learning about these topics. And some of the science and tech ideas are fun and cool. For example: at one point, Jax develops a type of algae that, when fed to a cow, eliminates its methane output.
The stumbling block for the team, though, is that Jax and Grace are both stubborn and want to be in charge. They honestly never get to a point where they are working together, and ultimately the whole team suffers for it.
This book ends with cliffhanger, so I won’t go any further than that. Instead, we’ll just say to expect to see their further adventures detailed in a later book.
April 3, 2024
I beta read this book and am now providing an honest review.
I think this is a very fun story that young teens will enjoy. There are a lot of big concepts about climate change that are presented in manageable ways with pre-teen friendly language and the occasional big-ticket word that some readers may need to look up. There were so few of these words that to me this felt like a great language-building opportunity rather than being written above anyone's head.
The story itself is really interesting. An organisation called CAT provides opportunities to kids in all walks of life to research climate change and ways to save the world. Jax is one of those kids who is offered the opportunity to join CAT or go to juvie due to actions he took at the beginning of the book. I did struggle a bit with Jax because early on he did some things that made it difficult to sympathise with him. I think an argument can be made though that something big had to happen to put him in a position that this was the only choice for him. As the story progressed it was interesting to see the choices he made and how he struggled to grow. I'm really interested to see what happens next!
If you have a pre-teen reader in your house who is interested in adventures or science I think this would be a good option!
I think this is a very fun story that young teens will enjoy. There are a lot of big concepts about climate change that are presented in manageable ways with pre-teen friendly language and the occasional big-ticket word that some readers may need to look up. There were so few of these words that to me this felt like a great language-building opportunity rather than being written above anyone's head.
The story itself is really interesting. An organisation called CAT provides opportunities to kids in all walks of life to research climate change and ways to save the world. Jax is one of those kids who is offered the opportunity to join CAT or go to juvie due to actions he took at the beginning of the book. I did struggle a bit with Jax because early on he did some things that made it difficult to sympathise with him. I think an argument can be made though that something big had to happen to put him in a position that this was the only choice for him. As the story progressed it was interesting to see the choices he made and how he struggled to grow. I'm really interested to see what happens next!
If you have a pre-teen reader in your house who is interested in adventures or science I think this would be a good option!
August 6, 2024
story has potential but formatting errors and over use of . . . kept throwing me out of the story.
This story has some great moments and the arc itself is good. However, formatting issues such as a new paragraph starting in the middle of a sentence, and other strange paragraph breaks, kept pulling me out of the story.
In addition to that, italics was over used and in some places, strangely and without any need for it. Also, . . . was used way too much and in some places it just didn’t work.
In addition to that, the Aussie character was a bizarre mix of occa and yoga type person and these two characteristics are not typically seen in one person. Also, the phrases that Aussie’s supposedly used, oi! No mate, we don’t typically use fair dinkum as you have seen on a certain show. We also don’t use mate to such an extent. I was cringing and getting annoyed, which pulled me out of the story. Please check in with a local before you try to write a character with no real knowledge of the people from that country.
There were some typos and other issues as well, so I have concluded that this could do with a deep edit to bring the story within it out better.
This story has some great moments and the arc itself is good. However, formatting issues such as a new paragraph starting in the middle of a sentence, and other strange paragraph breaks, kept pulling me out of the story.
In addition to that, italics was over used and in some places, strangely and without any need for it. Also, . . . was used way too much and in some places it just didn’t work.
In addition to that, the Aussie character was a bizarre mix of occa and yoga type person and these two characteristics are not typically seen in one person. Also, the phrases that Aussie’s supposedly used, oi! No mate, we don’t typically use fair dinkum as you have seen on a certain show. We also don’t use mate to such an extent. I was cringing and getting annoyed, which pulled me out of the story. Please check in with a local before you try to write a character with no real knowledge of the people from that country.
There were some typos and other issues as well, so I have concluded that this could do with a deep edit to bring the story within it out better.
April 11, 2024
The Climate Diaries is an engaging read for kids and adults alike. Author Aaron Arsenault has delivered a creative story with a relatable and interesting cast of characters educating readers on the dangers of climate change with a positive spin. The story inspires readers to take action and make a difference in the future of our world. At a time when action towards climate change is critical for our planet, this series is perfect for inspiring the next generation to innovate and be the change we need in this world.
A fun and easy read, my pre-teen and I were engaged from cover to cover. The book strikes a fantastic balance between education and fictional adventure, keeping kids and adults engaged and enthusiastic throughout the entire read. As a woman working in the clean energy industry, I was super pumped by the female character representation and the strength and tenacity of their personalities. We can’t wait for the next one!
A fun and easy read, my pre-teen and I were engaged from cover to cover. The book strikes a fantastic balance between education and fictional adventure, keeping kids and adults engaged and enthusiastic throughout the entire read. As a woman working in the clean energy industry, I was super pumped by the female character representation and the strength and tenacity of their personalities. We can’t wait for the next one!
June 12, 2024
Overall, I thought the story has a unique premise and liked how it addresses the real problems of climate change. There were lots of interesting tasks for the team to complete, including building an ecofriendly tiny home and trying to determine a way to cut down on methane gas emissions. Included in the author's note there were several tips for what the reader can do to minimize climate change, to include shopping smarter. As well as a free activity guide for kids, and a link to the teacher's guide. Although Team 19's time at CAT was short lived, and the story ended on a cliffhanger, everything is left pretty open in terms of what can potentially happen next. It kind of felt like a mixture of Survivor and an Army bootcamp with cool gadgets like the personal locator beacon and windowless drones used for transportation. I'm looking forward to seeing what is in store for the team next.
** A huge thank you to Books Forward for the E-ARC and paperback**
** A huge thank you to Books Forward for the E-ARC and paperback**
March 28, 2024
***GIRL POWER!!***
My daughter and I blew through this page-turner in less than a week!
The female characters are STRONG and EMPOWERING! The Aussie girl character in particular was her favourite- such a breath of fresh air and the Aussie slang had her in stitches! The author framed the climate change narrative in a way that was easy to read and understand for kids. Some of the scenes were so hilarious they even had me and my husband laughing!
The Jax character wasn't my favourite at the beginning, I admit, but I think a lot of the boys will be able to relate to him. In the end, he does a good job of redeeming himself.
We can't wait to read Book Two!
My daughter and I blew through this page-turner in less than a week!
The female characters are STRONG and EMPOWERING! The Aussie girl character in particular was her favourite- such a breath of fresh air and the Aussie slang had her in stitches! The author framed the climate change narrative in a way that was easy to read and understand for kids. Some of the scenes were so hilarious they even had me and my husband laughing!
The Jax character wasn't my favourite at the beginning, I admit, but I think a lot of the boys will be able to relate to him. In the end, he does a good job of redeeming himself.
We can't wait to read Book Two!
April 2, 2024
"The Climate Diaries / The Academy" is a captivating kid's novel that intertwines adventure with environmental consciousness. Through the thrilling escapades of a diverse group of young Academy recruits, it brings awareness throughout the chapters about the issue of climate change. With its engaging storyline and important message, this book not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-read for kids (and adults) passionate about making a positive impact on the world. I can’t wait to read about the next adventures of Jax, Grace, August, and Kylie...!
April 19, 2024
What an awesome book for learning about climate change! I loved this story, and it’s fun, between the secret location that they’re taken to (which sounds totally awesome). There’s also clues that need to be found and solved. There’s kids from all around the world which I thought was cool. Plus it talks about cow farts which is pretty funny. There’s some pictures throughout the book where we get to see what the characters look like which I appreciated. The only bad thing about this book is waiting for part 2 and seeing what happens next!! 😅
May 1, 2024
As a reader that loves books, this book is amazing with loads of adventures, and pranks!!! I love this book because of how it will help kids understand how to help the climate and improve the world together. This will definitely in courage kids to help the enviroment. To me after reading just to chapter 12 this book will one day become the future Diary Of A Wimpy Kid or the future Harry Potter.
I recommend this to anybody who loves books, wants to help the enviroment, and loves pranks!
Best book Aaron. Make a second book please!!!
I recommend this to anybody who loves books, wants to help the enviroment, and loves pranks!
Best book Aaron. Make a second book please!!!
April 15, 2024
This is a great read for young adults! My 10yo son loved the main character Jax, and the shenanigans he got into. With climate science sprinkled throughout, I loved that my son was absorbing basic concepts while following the CAT task force on their mission.
Beautifully written from the POV of an 11yo misunderstood genius, it puts the reader into a forward-thinking mindset and gets right into the action. This book is a perfect choice for any budding scientists or activists out there!!
Beautifully written from the POV of an 11yo misunderstood genius, it puts the reader into a forward-thinking mindset and gets right into the action. This book is a perfect choice for any budding scientists or activists out there!!
February 29, 2024
Readers who enjoy climate issues with elements of sci-fi will enjoy this short throat punch of a book! This book is fast paced and innovative, and though the characters are younger and the book is set for a middle grade audience, I think young adults will also enjoy the overarching themes and storyline!
March 11, 2024
This is a fantastic and adventurous read for middle grade readers that enjoy learning more about the climate change crisis. The Climate Diaries is a fun read for those who are interested in climate fiction with a hint of science fiction. Even if you are not a middle grade reader, I am sure that you will enjoy the adventures that Aaron Arsenault takes you on with protagonist Jax and his friends.
April 9, 2024
This is a wonderful read for middle-grade readers. The 4 main characters are developed well with unique traits; young readers will no doubt find one they like and/or relate to and will enjoy following them through their adventures.
As a parent, I appreciated how the storyline wove in numerous climate facts, whilst keeping it engaging and fun.
As a parent, I appreciated how the storyline wove in numerous climate facts, whilst keeping it engaging and fun.
June 2, 2024
Fabulous
What a wonderful introduction to a new series. Even though this book was written for a younger age group I think that the age of the Kids Would be a bit older than 4th through 6th grade. This Would make for a great read aloud In any science class As well as others. Wish that the second in this series is already available.
What a wonderful introduction to a new series. Even though this book was written for a younger age group I think that the age of the Kids Would be a bit older than 4th through 6th grade. This Would make for a great read aloud In any science class As well as others. Wish that the second in this series is already available.
May 1, 2024
Thank you so much for making this great book. I thought I was in the book with great female and male characters. I loved going along with Jax, Grace, Agust, and kylie.I am deeply craveing the next book
May 3, 2024
I really like this book because its education intresting and has a good mix of humur in it too i am on chapter 13-14 and so far it has been great my favorite part is when Jax controls mr.cliffords car and it goes off the cliff overall 5 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2024
Once you realize Jax and his mates are 12 years old (!) all the activities seem ridiculous. Jax is clearly disturbed, even though raised by involved and loving parents. He is the ultimate prankster jerk, smirking and grinning at every mishap he causes others. I wanted to like this story, but even wishing he could learn something about understanding actions lead to consequences, it wasn't enough for me.
April 5, 2024
An amazing book to assure young readers that climate change isn’t scary and to inspire more people to start making new tech and products supporting this big cause.
May 1, 2024
I swear this is the best book ever Aaron this is just like Harry Potter the details the background the thrills all of these things makes the book so good. Keep it up Aaron best book ever. ❤️ the book
January 11, 2025
He is a bully and mean-spirited and a saboteur. I do not know why we as a reader are supposed to be on his side.
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