From the acclaimed author of Manatee Summer comes a poignant story about a girl who learns to lay down roots as she’s drawn into a fight over a local grove of trees that’s in danger of being torn down. Perfect for fans of Hoot and Operation Redwood.

Holly Foster knows that nothing lasts—not hometowns or schools, or even family. It’s just safer to keep herself uninvolved. So when she’s sent to spend part of the summer with her uncle, she knows better than to get attached to him…or any part of his small Vermont town of Arden.

But when she arrives, she’s drawn into the drama that’s split the town: The local plastic factory is trying to tear down the trees in the center of Arden to build a visitor’s center and museum. Holly shocks herself by stepping into the fray and taking on one of the most powerful families in the area. But as she learns more about the town—and makes a new friend or two—Holly is determined to protect the one place she thinks she could finally belong. But will she be able to convince the other townspeople that the trees deserve to stay?

Community Activism: Holly never wanted to get involved, but soon she’s joining her uncle’s Save the Grove Committee to take on the most powerful family in town.
Found Family: From her quiet uncle to a quirky group of local environmentalists, Holly discovers that family can be chosen, and home can be found where you least expect it.
Small Town Story: Welcome to Arden, Vermont—a town of strange neighbors, hidden drama, and a magical grove of rare trees at its heart.
Children’s Books About Environmentalism: A heartfelt and inspiring read that explores the science of trees and the power of one kid to make a difference for the planet.

The Strange Wonders of Roots

The Strange Wonders of Roots