First published 2023
Naturalist Sy Montgomery explores the world of turtle rescue through the Turtle Rescue League, where founders Natasha and Alexxia operate by a simple rule: never give up on a turtle. Montgomery and wildlife artist Matt Patterson witness hundreds of turtles recovering from severe injuries caused by cars, pollution, and poachers. The author investigates what makes these ancient creatures so compelling to their human caretakers. Turtles have survived since dinosaur times, with some species living two centuries or more. Montgomery and Patterson participate in the careful work of nest protection, egg incubation, and sea turtle rescue. They follow Fire Chief, a snapping turtle fighting to recover from truck-inflicted wounds. Through these rescue stories, Montgomery examines how turtle time offers lessons about patience and healing. She weaves together scientific observation, personal reflection, and global cultural perspectives to understand what these slow-moving survivors teach about making peace with time itself.
Genres: biography, science, nature, animals, environment, non-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family
288 pages · Hardcover · Mariner Books