Spineless by Samantha San Miguel
copy for review; all opinions are my own
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Official Summary: When his asthma lands him at a health resort in the wilds of Gilded Age South Florida, twelve-year-old Algie Emsworth is over the moon. The scientific treasure trove of unexplored swamps may launch his dream career as a naturalist. But even Algie is startled when he happens upon a brand-new species and her brood in the karst springs surrounding the resort. Algie quickly realizes he must keep his discovery a secret: a famous collector of exotic animals is also staying at the hotel, and the new species is threatened by his very presence. An apparent curse has also descended upon the hotel, bringing with it a deadly red tide. But when the pool starts filling with ink and guests start getting mysterious, sucker-shaped wounds, Algie must pluck up his courage to find the truth about the goings-on at the Grand Hotel–and save the new species from destruction.
Review: This was such a fun MG read! It’s the Gilded Age and Algie Emsworth, his mom, and brother have traveled to South Florida to see if the new climate will help Algie’s asthma. There’s also the fear that Algie doesn’t really have asthma…but tuberculosis, which his father passed from. Despite his reasoning for being there, Algie is excited to try out his naturalist skills by teaming up with the two daughter’s of the resort’s owner.
There’s a red tide killing all the animals, and the trio are determined to find out what’s behind it. At the same time, they discover a new, giant animal, and are desperate to keep her safe and away from a famous naturalist who doesn’t care if the animal is killed. I loved the dual meaning of Spineless – which refers to this creature, but also the idea that Algie often sees himself as spineless. He’s not though! He’s willing to risk his health, and more, for those he loves. It was great seeing him live out his naturalist dreams!
The girls he meets, Frankie and Lulu, are so much fun. I love all the gadgets and tools they have access too, opening up Algie’s world even more. The trio don’t always work well together at first, but they ultimately realize they all have something vital to add to the team and they must use those skills to save the creature.
All in all, definitely a fun read! I could see more Algie, Frankie, and Lulu adventures in the future!
This sounds like a great book! Thank you for sharing it!
Looks like an amazing book. Thanks for sharing. Love this.
I just got this book for review, so I’m excited to see you enjoyed it!
And, by the way, happy birthday!!!
Aww this sounds cute!