Rescue by Jessie Haas was a pleasant surprise in my first of summer reading list. Don’t read just the back cover as you might be lead astray from a book that will be sure to spark discussions in your reading circles.
Joni has a new neighbor. But she isn’t quite sure about Chess. Chess is from California. Chess dresses differently. Chess has ideas…lots of ideas. Joni isn’t sure if this new friendship is going to work out. She and Chess are so different. But in the end, common experiences forge a bond that will leave them understanding just how great a friendship of different minds can be.
When I read the cover jacket for this book, I expected a very one-sided story regarding animal activism. This book was exactly the opposite. The novel is a very balanced story looking at the pros, cons, and responsibilities of animal ownership, food chain practices, and animal activism. The author did a great job of explaining activism, propaganda, and similar subjects in terms that younger readers could understand and could then formulate their own opinions.
The interplay between the two female characters is endearing and there is enough action to keep the plot line moving and interesting. The language is simple, although there are a few horsemanship terms that readers may be unfamiliar with, but they don’t detract from the story.
I could see this book being used as a great classroom or book club discussion book. It is thought-provoking; young and old alike could garner great debate and stimulating discussion from group reading. Overall a great read for those needing a little bit of a mental workout once the pages have been turned.
This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Boyd’s Mill Press
Content Analysis:
Profanity/Language: None
Violence and Gore: Girl splits lip with minimal blood; reference to a man dying from illness; cat eats mouse it killed, not graphic; girl touches electric fence and gets knocked on butt; verbal threat of harm; horse playfully nips girl in shoulder; girl steals horses; one horse attempts to kick another.
Sex and Nudity: One kiss between adults without detail.
Mature Subject Matter:
Death, ethics, stealing, activism.
Alcohol / Drug Use:
None
