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Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
The Adventures of Syd: A Trail of Trouble by Danielle Simone is a children’s adventure. As the story opens, Syd’s father, Dr. Gardner, shows her a destructive woolly adelgid he’s studying. He tells her that it’s an invasive species that is damaging the Eastern Hemlock trees, which is why he has been sent on assignment to investigate an area near the Tye River in Nelson County, Virginia. For the first time, he’s inviting Syd to come along for this two-night work trip, and her Blue Heeler, Goose, will be joining. Before long, Syd experiences the realities of outdoor exploration, like getting blisters on her heel and sitting in stinging nettles. But the experiences also teach Syd valuable lessons along the way, from learning campsite safety and responsibilities to encounters with wildlife. Readers are invited on the trip with Syd as she learns problem-solving skills and important responsibilities on her first wilderness adventure.
Danielle Simone makes the story engaging for middle-grade readers. I loved how she highlighted the natural beauty of the forest and the bond between father and daughter. These added so much heart to the whole storyline. Syd’s character was relatable as the nine-year-old whose mistakes, like ignoring her father’s advice, turned into valuable, teachable moments. Her father, Dr. Gardner, acted as her guide in educating her on the dos and don’ts. Syd’s courage was also tested in a number of ways, like when she had to rescue Goose from a snake. I appreciated the addition of ecological concepts and learning about invasive species. Anyone who’s read similar nature-centered works like Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet would most appreciate The Adventures of Syd: A Trail of Trouble.
