Every once in a while, I come across a book that reminds me just how much fun reading can be, and The Booker Rebellion by Susan Palmer did exactly that! Part thriller and part wilderness adventure, this entertaining novel had me eagerly turning pages, wondering what might happen next. Fifteen-year-old Belinda Booker, her twelve-year-old brother Jack, and six-year-old sister Emmy live deep in the Pacific Coast Range in Oregon. Raised by National Guard veterans to be independent and resourceful, the siblings are staying with their stern Aunt Louise while their parents fight wildfires in Alaska. When mysterious motorcycle tracks, damaged trees, and other suspicious activity appear in the forest, their curiosity leads to the discovery of a dead body—and an adventure far more dangerous than they imagined.
The children soon uncover a secret militia stockpiling weapons and plotting something sinister. What I particularly enjoyed was the dynamic among the three siblings. Belinda takes charge, Jack notices details others overlook, and even little Emmy finds ways to help. They're courageous and clever, but they're still kids, and their occasional missteps and sibling interactions add welcome humor. Palmer makes these characters easy to root for, and just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, another unexpected twist kept me guessing.
What made The Booker Rebellion so enjoyable was its terrific blend of suspense, adventure, and genuine fun. Palmer brings the Oregon wilderness to life, with dense forests, rugged terrain, and the approaching threat of wildfire adding to the tension. Yet despite the danger, the story never loses its adventurous spirit or the strong family loyalty at its heart. Although the protagonists are young, I found this fast-paced, thoroughly enjoyable adventure every bit as entertaining as the adult thrillers I typically read. Susan Palmer has delivered a terrific novel, and I'd happily join the Booker siblings on another rebellious adventure!
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