The True and Lucky Life of a Turtle
Sy Montgomery author Matt Patterson illustrator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers Inc
Published:23rd Oct '25
Should be back in stock very soon

"A remarkable story." — Washington Post
The bestselling and Sibert Honor–winning creators of The Book of Turtles bring us the true story of a snapping turtle’s extraordinary journey—and the amazing conservationists who helped give him a second chance. This feel-good, gorgeously illustrated story about beating the odds is complete with inspiring back matter and photos.
Here is the true story of a very lucky turtle. His story began long ago when he was hatched from a very small egg on an autumn day. After decades of traveling between his summer pond behind the firehouse and his winter pond across the street, he never could have guessed that on one October day he would become unlucky . . .
The amazing friends and challenges he met along the way are all chronicled by the Sibert Honor–winning duo behind The Book of Turtles in this tribute to the resilience and good luck of their dear friend, a very lucky turtle indeed.
Detailed back matter includes an author's note, information about snapping turtles, and reader resources for how to save injured turtles.
★ “This one delights and uplifts.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Resilience forms the backbone of this heartening new collaboration between Montgomery and Patterson. [An] uplifting tale.” — Publishers Weekly "The incredible story of Fire Chief is captivating...Young readers will be fascinated by the real-life resilience of this turtle and inspired by the people who helped him survive." — Booklist "Human habitat encroachment causes Fire Chief’s problem, but human concern and persistence find a solution for him. Told with a storyteller’s cadence." — Horn Book Magazine "A remarkable story." — Washington Post
ISBN: 9780063325166
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 549g
40 pages