Written by Sy Montgomery, Illustrated by Matt Patterson
What a wonderful narrative nonfiction book based on the real life of a snapping turtle known as Fire Chief. Fire Chief lives in a pond behind a fire station. As he grows, he is seen by the firefighters. The firefighters watch every year as he crosses the road to go to a larger pond in the winter. One year, Fire Chief is hit by a car crossing the road. Two women that belong to a rescue league take him to an animal hospital where he is treated and rehabilitates. This is an encouraging book to see how humans care for wildlife and keep them safe in their own habitats.
This book compliments The Book of Turtles, also by the same author and Illustrator. It includes interesting back matter and resources. I just love, love, love, a good nonfiction picture book. I look forward to sharing this for story time.
Reviewed by Kristen Hunt, Librarian, Whittier Elementary School
Review shared in October 2025
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-4
The True and Lucky Life of a Turtle
Written by Sy Montgomery, Illustrated by Matt Patterson
Clarion Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers
40 pages
Release Date: September 9, 2025
ISBN: 9780063325166
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
