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Race for the Ruby Turtle
Bloomsbury presents Race for the Ruby Turtle, written and read by Stephen Bracmucci
A heartfelt middle grade eco-adventure story full of friendship and self-discovery, perfect for fans of Dan Gemeinhart and Gary D. Schmidt.
Summer is winding down and Jake Rizzi is headed to his great-aunt’s cabin in the wet, mossy Oregon backwoods. His parents are going on a "couples retreat" and Jake can't help but wonder if it's him and his ADHD that they need a break from. His great-aunt’s off-the-grid lifestyle seems strange, but her stories about a turtle with a ruby-colored shell spark his imagination.
Jake soon learns that the turtle is more than a myth. And thanks to a viral article online, strangers from all over the world have arrived to search for it--including a sinister "park ranger" and towering twins claiming to be zoologists. Jake is sure that finding the turtle will change how people see him and his “attention issues”--but he’ll need help.
With villains lurking and mysteries to solve, Jake and his new friend Mia find themselves locked in a race against time. But when things turn dangerous, Jake has to choose what matters most--personal glory or protecting the wonders of nature?
A heartfelt middle grade eco-adventure story full of friendship and self-discovery, perfect for fans of Dan Gemeinhart and Gary D. Schmidt.
Summer is winding down and Jake Rizzi is headed to his great-aunt’s cabin in the wet, mossy Oregon backwoods. His parents are going on a "couples retreat" and Jake can't help but wonder if it's him and his ADHD that they need a break from. His great-aunt’s off-the-grid lifestyle seems strange, but her stories about a turtle with a ruby-colored shell spark his imagination.
Jake soon learns that the turtle is more than a myth. And thanks to a viral article online, strangers from all over the world have arrived to search for it--including a sinister "park ranger" and towering twins claiming to be zoologists. Jake is sure that finding the turtle will change how people see him and his “attention issues”--but he’ll need help.
With villains lurking and mysteries to solve, Jake and his new friend Mia find themselves locked in a race against time. But when things turn dangerous, Jake has to choose what matters most--personal glory or protecting the wonders of nature?
Audible Audio
Published October 3, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 16, 2024
This is a great adventure story for MG readers that love the outdoors!
September 29, 2023
Eleven-year-old Jake is not thrilled about the idea of spending his last, glorious week of summer break at his great-aunt’s remote cabin in the Oregon backcountry. But, it does give Jake an opportunity to experience the rainiest city in the United States, just in time for the annual Nehalem Blackberry Moon Festival. When a piece of family lore appears to be more than just a legend and a host of folks from around the world are invested in discovering the truth for themselves, Jake finds himself at the center of a mystery that is bigger than he could have imagined. Luckily, he connects with friends and family to do the right thing, and what begins as a week of drudgery develops into one Jake will never forget.
This clever middle grade novel blends environmental conservation with one boy’s experience living with ADHD. Since the story is told primarily from Jake’s perspective, readers get a first-hand look at the way his brain works, which ultimately serves as a mirror for some readers and a window for others, depending on the way their own brains process the world around them. Jake is a likable character on his own, and his myriad companions enhance the overall feel of the book. Quirky personalities, dastardly bad guys, and comfortable friendships shape the narrative into one that is enjoyable from beginning to end.
There is a secondary voice in the story, and the book is designed to ensure readers are aware of the narrator shift whenever it occurs through a change in the appearance of both the page background and the text. This speaks to Jake’s experience and honors all readers who have ADHD because it provides a visual cue that accompanies the text as the story unfolds. Excellent writing, a whimsical premise, and a heartfelt delivery make this book one that will resonate with middle grade and older readers alike. It puts a unique spin on the message of nature conservation, and at its heart is one young boy’s journey to self-acceptance. This is a positive addition to library collections for middle grade readers.
This clever middle grade novel blends environmental conservation with one boy’s experience living with ADHD. Since the story is told primarily from Jake’s perspective, readers get a first-hand look at the way his brain works, which ultimately serves as a mirror for some readers and a window for others, depending on the way their own brains process the world around them. Jake is a likable character on his own, and his myriad companions enhance the overall feel of the book. Quirky personalities, dastardly bad guys, and comfortable friendships shape the narrative into one that is enjoyable from beginning to end.
There is a secondary voice in the story, and the book is designed to ensure readers are aware of the narrator shift whenever it occurs through a change in the appearance of both the page background and the text. This speaks to Jake’s experience and honors all readers who have ADHD because it provides a visual cue that accompanies the text as the story unfolds. Excellent writing, a whimsical premise, and a heartfelt delivery make this book one that will resonate with middle grade and older readers alike. It puts a unique spin on the message of nature conservation, and at its heart is one young boy’s journey to self-acceptance. This is a positive addition to library collections for middle grade readers.
October 14, 2023
A delightful book that keeps moving but still allows the protagonist to be introspective. It takes place in Nehalem in the Oregon coast and the author’s familiarity and love of the area shines through. I look forward to sharing this book with my grandson and hope that he learns to respect wildlife and the environment as much as young Jake of the book does.
December 12, 2023
RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE is a fun, action-packed novel that kids are sure to enjoy. The book is geared toward younger readers, so while there's some danger in the story, it's fairly low risk and there's never a question about whether or not our hero is going to triumph over the bad guy. Our hero is a good kid and our villain is a bit of a caricature. He's not evil; he's just greedy and misguided.
Jake is a likable character who always tries to do the right thing even when his ADHD gets in the way. His struggles with his condition make him both sympathetic and relatable. It's easy to root for him and to cheer for him as he learns to not just accept his neurodivergence but also to appreciate the positive traits he has because of it. The other main characters are just as likable, although I have some issues with Hettle. Even though her mischievousness made me laugh and I realize she is supposed to be an eccentric old lady with no experience watching children, it still bothered me that Jake's guardian knowingly allowed Jake and Emma to put themselves at risk of getting in trouble with the law and being hurt. I'm also not sure that it's brought out enough in the book that activists (especially kids) need to find peaceful ways of getting their points across without putting themselves in danger or damaging other people's property.
At any rate, RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE does teach some valuable lessons about the wonders of nature and the need to protect and preserve it. Between Jake's treasured animal facts and what he learns about turtles, the novel gives kids a lot of interesting information about different creatures. It's also an empowering story for kids with neurodivergence who can't always see the good things that come from having a brain that works a little bit differently.
Overall, then, I enjoyed RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE. It's funny, exciting, empowering, and entertaining. If I could, I would give it 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
Jake is a likable character who always tries to do the right thing even when his ADHD gets in the way. His struggles with his condition make him both sympathetic and relatable. It's easy to root for him and to cheer for him as he learns to not just accept his neurodivergence but also to appreciate the positive traits he has because of it. The other main characters are just as likable, although I have some issues with Hettle. Even though her mischievousness made me laugh and I realize she is supposed to be an eccentric old lady with no experience watching children, it still bothered me that Jake's guardian knowingly allowed Jake and Emma to put themselves at risk of getting in trouble with the law and being hurt. I'm also not sure that it's brought out enough in the book that activists (especially kids) need to find peaceful ways of getting their points across without putting themselves in danger or damaging other people's property.
At any rate, RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE does teach some valuable lessons about the wonders of nature and the need to protect and preserve it. Between Jake's treasured animal facts and what he learns about turtles, the novel gives kids a lot of interesting information about different creatures. It's also an empowering story for kids with neurodivergence who can't always see the good things that come from having a brain that works a little bit differently.
Overall, then, I enjoyed RACE FOR THE RUBY TURTLE. It's funny, exciting, empowering, and entertaining. If I could, I would give it 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
December 6, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Great storytelling with new insights about living with ADHD from the main character. I immediately loaned the book to an adult friend of mine who has ADHD. We chuckled over the reference to “Focus!” Loved the scientific details shared throughout the book. Joyful relationships, adventure, & just the right amount of “danger” keep the reader continuously engaged. I hope to read the book aloud to my granddaughter. Bravo, Steve Bramucci!
August 7, 2024
This took me far too long to read for no real good reason. I thought the representation of ADHD was really good. Both drawbacks and benefits were touched on. In addition to that, the book did a good job of introducing conservation. The plot was tense at times and I genuinely didn’t know how it would end. This is a great book for anyone who likes animals and a little bit of mystery.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2025
4.5 This was a super fun adventure with all types of characters, from neurodivergents to annoying influences and mean poachers. The main characters make a great team to protect what is important. Also, I love a book about turtles.
listened to a librofm copy
listened to a librofm copy
April 5, 2024
When Jake has to spend the week with his great aunt who he barely knows in a remote, swampy area of Oregon, he doesn't expect to learn about a ruby-backed turtle or to be part of a race to find it, but that is exactly what happens. This caper has a great, imperfect narrator, a quirky sidekick, goofy suspects, wise authority figure, and a dangerous villain. The plot is fast-paced and the humor keeps it light. A good story with an environmental theme.
October 29, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this! It's an exciting adventure story that will appeal to middle-grade readers looking for a narrative thrill with elements of found (and literal) family relationships on display. I appreciate that Jake's ADHD is highlighted as something that impacts him but does not completely define him; hopefully readers will see themselves in Jake and identify themselves not only with his challenges but also with his sense of loyalty and perseverance. (Also, I want to read a whole book about Hettle's life.)
I really enjoyed this! It's an exciting adventure story that will appeal to middle-grade readers looking for a narrative thrill with elements of found (and literal) family relationships on display. I appreciate that Jake's ADHD is highlighted as something that impacts him but does not completely define him; hopefully readers will see themselves in Jake and identify themselves not only with his challenges but also with his sense of loyalty and perseverance. (Also, I want to read a whole book about Hettle's life.)
Want to Read
June 26, 2024SM
December 12, 2023
I wrote this book, so I am giving it a full 5 stars! LOL!
That said, I'm very fond of it and proud of it and would love to share with you the letter that went out to librarians and booksellers in the ARC:
Dear Reader,
When I sat down to work on Race for the Ruby Turtle, I knew I wanted to write a love letter to the Oregon Coast, a story that asked big questions about the relationship between humans and the natural world, and a book that kids might curl up with as rain slatted against their bedroom windows. But most of all, I knew I wanted to write a book that reflected a journey I've been on for many years -- a boy learning to accept, live with, and even benefit from the often fascinating but also occasionally maddening ways that his unique brain works.
In short, I wanted to write a book for kids struggling with ADHD, just like me. Not to serve them platitudes about this disorder being a superpower, but rather to help them arrive at the place I've finally landed -- where they can take the good and the bad parts of ADHD and come to peace with the balance. Where they too might say: "My brain is different… It definitely doesn’t always make things easy… but I wouldn't trade it."
Race for the Ruby Turtle is an adventure story. It stars two friends who risk everything to protect a reptile that might not even exist. It features towering Swedish twins with a hidden agenda and an animal-poaching Texan wielding a very sharp bowie knife. I like to think that it's funny at certain times and thrilling at others. But its core is a story about self-acceptance -- which I believe is one of the most important adventures a kid (or adult) can ever go on.
Thank you so much for reading this book and helping me get it into the hands of young people who might enjoy or benefit from its ideas, themes, and heart. I hope to get the chance to meet and share this book with you in person very soon!
++Steve
That said, I'm very fond of it and proud of it and would love to share with you the letter that went out to librarians and booksellers in the ARC:
Dear Reader,
When I sat down to work on Race for the Ruby Turtle, I knew I wanted to write a love letter to the Oregon Coast, a story that asked big questions about the relationship between humans and the natural world, and a book that kids might curl up with as rain slatted against their bedroom windows. But most of all, I knew I wanted to write a book that reflected a journey I've been on for many years -- a boy learning to accept, live with, and even benefit from the often fascinating but also occasionally maddening ways that his unique brain works.
In short, I wanted to write a book for kids struggling with ADHD, just like me. Not to serve them platitudes about this disorder being a superpower, but rather to help them arrive at the place I've finally landed -- where they can take the good and the bad parts of ADHD and come to peace with the balance. Where they too might say: "My brain is different… It definitely doesn’t always make things easy… but I wouldn't trade it."
Race for the Ruby Turtle is an adventure story. It stars two friends who risk everything to protect a reptile that might not even exist. It features towering Swedish twins with a hidden agenda and an animal-poaching Texan wielding a very sharp bowie knife. I like to think that it's funny at certain times and thrilling at others. But its core is a story about self-acceptance -- which I believe is one of the most important adventures a kid (or adult) can ever go on.
Thank you so much for reading this book and helping me get it into the hands of young people who might enjoy or benefit from its ideas, themes, and heart. I hope to get the chance to meet and share this book with you in person very soon!
++Steve
February 20, 2025
Jake gets dropped off at his eccentric great aunt's house for the summer after his ADHD antics caused a major disruption and ended up costing his parents a lot of money. He's hoping that there's less stuff to break in the Oregon woods where his aunt lives but she has other plans for him - help her with the annual festival that takes place on her property every year. But this year, some unsavory characters have turned up, hoping to find an elusive ruby-backed turtle that was previously thought to be just a myth. Will Jake and his new friend Mia be able to keep the turtle, if it's real, safe from poachers and keep the tourists from trampling the forests? Jake's self-proclaimed ADHD brain might be just the thing to keep one step ahead of those who would harm the environment.
Little unbelievable in spots (kids traipsing through the forest alone and going up against poachers gives me heart palpitations!) but overall a cute eco-mystery/middle grade adventure w/ relatable sympathetic characters. Jake is neurodivergent and talks a lot about his ADHD diagnosis and coping skills. Mia is dealing with her parents' divorce and navigating various friend groups.
Satisfies 52 Book Challenge 2025 Prompt: #41. Cover Font is in a Primary Color
Little unbelievable in spots (kids traipsing through the forest alone and going up against poachers gives me heart palpitations!) but overall a cute eco-mystery/middle grade adventure w/ relatable sympathetic characters. Jake is neurodivergent and talks a lot about his ADHD diagnosis and coping skills. Mia is dealing with her parents' divorce and navigating various friend groups.
Satisfies 52 Book Challenge 2025 Prompt: #41. Cover Font is in a Primary Color
December 4, 2024
A very cute middle grade mystery! For children with ADHD, this book will feel very affirming, especially since it showcases some of the impulsive behaviors and anxieties related to the diagnosis.
More so than just the ADHD representation, the characters itself were very strong. Jake is a character who exhibits a lot of growth, and his friendship with Mia was delightful to read (side note: I'm glad that it didn't end in a romance; kids this age should know that it is possible to have friends of the other gender without concern). The villain is sinister, and I really enjoyed that he doesn't get any redemption. There are great lessons about environmentalism and what we owe to the other creatures of the earth.
This also talks about land reclamation, Indigenous rights, and how to protect our land. Definitely pair this book with a lesson about the land YOU are on.
Should this be a Mark Twain? Maybe! I've yet to read the other mysteries on the Reader Selector list. But I had a great time with this book.
More so than just the ADHD representation, the characters itself were very strong. Jake is a character who exhibits a lot of growth, and his friendship with Mia was delightful to read (side note: I'm glad that it didn't end in a romance; kids this age should know that it is possible to have friends of the other gender without concern). The villain is sinister, and I really enjoyed that he doesn't get any redemption. There are great lessons about environmentalism and what we owe to the other creatures of the earth.
This also talks about land reclamation, Indigenous rights, and how to protect our land. Definitely pair this book with a lesson about the land YOU are on.
Should this be a Mark Twain? Maybe! I've yet to read the other mysteries on the Reader Selector list. But I had a great time with this book.
September 30, 2023
This book surprised and delighted me in so many ways. Jake makes an authentic middle grade voice and one I especially liked because of Jake's perspective of the world through the senses of someone who has ADHD. Jake is intelligent, loyal, loving--I cheered him on as he used his detail-focused mind to solve a mystery with the help of both friends and seemingly enemies. Jake's love and care for his dog Singer made me love him even more and Jake's sense of environmental stewardship is one I rooted for as he tried to do what is best for the land and its inhabitants. I connected with Jake's sense of humor and often found myself smiling as I read. I couldn't wait to get back to reading as the stakes and mystery continued building. I highly recommended this book for all middle grade readers who enjoy action stories, nature, friendship and family stories, mysteries and a bit of thrillers too.
October 1, 2024
Jake has to spend a week with his great-aunt in the rainy backwoods of Oregon and he's less than thrilled. He feel's dumped by his parents who need a break from his ADHD. While there he learns about a rare ruby-backed turtle, makes a friend-Mia, and with a cast of characters who've come to search for this rare creature, Jake and Mia need to protect said turtle. But is it just a myth or is it real?
Good story for the 9-12 year old crowd.
Also, through Jake's character, readers learn about how it feels to have ADHD; so there's a lesson in empathy and understanding here as well.
Good story for the 9-12 year old crowd.
Also, through Jake's character, readers learn about how it feels to have ADHD; so there's a lesson in empathy and understanding here as well.
January 13, 2024
This is such a wonderful story! It is the perfect mix of realistic fiction and folklore, with just enough intrigue and danger to keep you turning the pages. The vivid description in this engaging and optimistic story made me feel like I was right there and I was sad to put it down when I got to the end. I wish I had more time with Aunt Hettle. Once you’ve read the novel, listen to the audiobook, narrated by Bramucci himself, which was a real treat!
March 8, 2024
Obsessed. I want a series. We listened to this book in the car and it had Me (adult), ages 13,8, and 5 all enthralled. Not to scary but actioned packed enough. The audiobook in particular has some fun accents for the different characters. Great storyline and awesome adventure. We also have an Aunt Hetal who lives in Oregon so that was a super fun coincidence. I loved the way jake modeled discussing his ADHD and how it made him feel/impacted his life.
February 11, 2026
This story is action-packed from the very first page and is chalked full of adventure. One thing I didn’t expect from this children’s book—but truly appreciated—was its thoughtful insight into living with ADHD and how the people around us can either help or hinder how that challenge is managed and understood.
Jake is a young, relatable, and likable character who is genuinely trying to do right by everyone around him. He struggles with ADHD in ways that feel honest and accessible, allowing readers to both empathize with and connect to him. Alongside Mia, Jake often finds himself in dangerous situations, putting them at risk of getting into serious trouble—or even getting hurt—which adds to the tension and excitement of the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s funny, fast-paced, exciting, and highly entertaining, while also offering meaningful representation and lessons for young readers. A great pick for kids who love adventure with heart.
Jake is a young, relatable, and likable character who is genuinely trying to do right by everyone around him. He struggles with ADHD in ways that feel honest and accessible, allowing readers to both empathize with and connect to him. Alongside Mia, Jake often finds himself in dangerous situations, putting them at risk of getting into serious trouble—or even getting hurt—which adds to the tension and excitement of the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s funny, fast-paced, exciting, and highly entertaining, while also offering meaningful representation and lessons for young readers. A great pick for kids who love adventure with heart.
July 28, 2023
For anyone middle grade student who likes an adventure book and also cares about the environment, we strongly recommend this book. We really enjoyed the characters. The book got more and more gripping as it went on. And we liked that they showed us the perspectives of different characters, so you understood them, even the bad guys.
For our full review: https://youtu.be/PFRPx7UOsXY
For our full review: https://youtu.be/PFRPx7UOsXY
October 27, 2024
Bramucci does a lot in this fast-paced book: conservation, intergenerational relationships, new friendships, managing ADHD, botany, zoology, illegal poaching, adventure, role of technology, families navigating divorce, and more. At times, it feels like a little too much for one middle grade novel, but he manages to pull it all together with a hefty dose of fun.
July 11, 2026
I love this book. It has it all! It puts you in a setting you will never want to leave, the green and rainy Oregon coast. The characters are immediately endearing, and their goals are both noble and exciting. The message is vital without ever being heavy-handed. I highly recommend it for 8-12 year-olds who like nature and adventure, or for anyone working to accept an ADHD diagnosis.
February 5, 2024
I enjoyed the descriptions of the Pacific Northwest and the completeness of the main character, Jake, with all of his virtues and flaws. Also, as someone who enjoys the outdoors, I appreciated the tension between preservation of land and land use.
October 30, 2025
This was so good and I know why the picked it as a sc nominee. I am so glad that Jake and Mia got that experience in the end that was so cool. They got to do some pretty scary stuff as well as adventurous.
June 24, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
September 28, 2024
For MG readers who like stories about animals (or nature in general) and adventure, this is a great read!
February 16, 2025
Well-written adventure for fifth/sixth graders with a protagonist who struggles with ADHD
March 27, 2025
Conservation!
Disability representation!
Fun, a bit silly.
Gave away my copy at SFAA.
Disability representation!
Fun, a bit silly.
Gave away my copy at SFAA.
November 16, 2025
One of the best I read this year! The villain was great.
March 20, 2026
Captivating story with deep well developed characters. The audiobook is incredible!!! This narrator brought the story to life with incredible voices. My 9 yr old loved it.
May 28, 2026
Read aloud with my boys. They LOVED this one!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews