Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade

"Artemis is a courageous, passionate, and observant heroine who is vivified by her emotional complexity… ‘Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade’ is a commanding novel with a powerful environmental message."

–Foreword Reviews, starred review

“It's unusual to find a middle-grade read that deftly navigates both peer relationships and the politics of adult interactions… The dilemma is well-done and will appeal to young readers, while the lively ecological and social threads that run through the mystery offer many thought-provoking moments… Libraries looking for a vivid adventure story that holds opportunities for broader class and peer discussion will find ‘Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade’ an appealing acquisition.”

–D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“Warning: Artemis Sparke is pure energy! Equal parts ecologist, artist, scientist and historian, Art had me riding her tailwind on her mission to protect the delicate salt marsh of Long Island Sound. And, oh my, the stakes are high—environmentally and personally! Kenna’s well-crafted debut is a timely gift.” 

–Leslie Connor, National Book Award finalist and author of “The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle” and “Anybody Here Seen Frenchie?” 

“Featuring a strong and compassionate character, ‘Artemis Sparke and the Sound Seekers Brigade’ is an engaging story about friendship, protecting nature, and speaking up for what’s right even when it feels like no one will listen. Some helpful ghosts add layers of humor and mystery to this heartfelt novel.” 

–Lynne Kelly, author of “Song for a Whale” 

“Kimberly Behre Kenna has written a terrific middle-grade novel that will inspire readers of all ages… This entertaining page-turner has unforgettable characters, family drama, ghosts and secrets, surprises and suspense, and, without being pedantic, illuminates the urgency of battling climate change. The world needs more role models like Artemis Sparke.” 

–Pamela Gray, screenwriter, “Conviction,” “Music of the Heart,” “A Walk on the Moon” 

“A timely theme, nuanced characters, a story brushed with a touch of magic. Kids will love following the lead of environmentalist Artemis, as this book is rich with opportunities for science investigations and experiments.” 

–Carol Wallach, CT recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching 

“Birds love Artemis Sparke. Trees love her. Readers, too, will be captivated by this fiery, quirky, and determined twelve-year-old protector of salt marshes. Kimberly Behre Kenna’s debut novel is lively, magical, and wise. An essential read for these times when the earth is in such urgent need of care and we are in such urgent need of hope.” 

–Ona Gritz, author of “August or Forever” 

“A lovely tale full of pluck, passion, perseverance, and a dash of enchantment. A heartfelt adventure with a courageous young heroine determined to save her beloved salt marsh against daunting odds.” 

–Sandra Waugh, author of “Lark Rising” and “The Adventures of the Flash Gang” series 

“Tapping into guidance from the marshland creatures—as well as some ghostly advisors with powerful wisdom to share—Artemis connects a whole team of activists to help fight a major decision. Artemis Sparke’s compassion for others, her environmental concerns, her creative activism, and her powerful voice, will surely spark inspiration to work for change. Kimberly Behre Kenna has written a page-turning guidebook for the next generation of readers who are inheriting difficult environmental problems, but who—as this book reminds us—have the potential to learn from the past and to create lasting change.” 

–Diana Renn, author of “Trouble at Turtle Pond” and “Tokyo Heist”