Exploring Rain Forest Relay the First Book in the Race the Wild Series

Mikayla Young
Nov 5
6 min read

In the realm of children's literature, adventure stories have a unique charm. Kristin Earhart's "Rain Forest Relay," the inaugural book in the Race the Wild series, invites readers on an exhilarating journey through the vibrant landscapes of the rainforest. This post highlights the series synopsis, details about the book, a personal review, and engaging discussion questions to spark curiosity among young readers.

Series Synopsis

The "Race the Wild" series captivates young readers by delving into the marvels of nature, presenting challenges that demand quick thinking and teamwork. Each book showcases a diverse group of children navigating different natural settings and facing obstacles that challenge their bravery, ingenuity, and friendships. In "Rain Forest Relay," the series' debut, readers embark on a thrilling journey through a breathtaking rainforest, where the tranquil beauty of nature contrasts with a pressing survival struggle. This series aims to foster a love for the outdoors and enhance environmental awareness, offering both entertainment and education.

Book Information

Title: Rain Forest Relay
Author: Kristin Earhart
Series: Race the Wild (Book 1)
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Genre: Contemporary, Action + Adventure, Nature
Age Category: Children's, 6+
Format: Chapter Book with Illustrations
Format Read in: Physical Paperback
Reading Challenges: Physical TBR, Middle Grade Series Start, Read Around the World - South America, Little Free Library/ Library Book Sale - Hauled Books

Book Synopsis

Embark on a thrilling adventure with "Rain Forest Relay," where the stakes are high and the competition is fierce in a once-in-a-lifetime race through the animal kingdom! This captivating tale follows Russell and his team as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the Amazon rainforest, armed with knowledge, teamwork, and a dash of courage.

As Russell prepares for the race, he immerses himself in the wonders of the Amazon’s diverse wildlife and rich culture. However, nothing can truly prepare him for the challenges that lie ahead. From navigating raging rapids to encountering venomous creatures, each twist and turn presents new obstacles. With sneaky competitors lurking in the shadows, the red team must rely on their wits and camaraderie to make it to the finish line in one piece.

Each chapter is packed with exhilarating action and fascinating facts about the wild and wonderful creatures of the rainforest. Readers will discover dangerous habitats, detailed maps, and the unique adaptations of the animals they encounter. "Rain Forest Relay" is not just a race; it’s an educational journey that will ignite a passion for wildlife and conservation in readers of all ages.

Join Russell and his teammates as they learn the true meaning of teamwork and resilience in this action-packed adventure series that promises to entertain and educate!

My Rating + Review

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The characters in this book are somewhat developed, yet they exhibit a remarkable diversity that adds depth and relatability to the narrative. Each character brings their own unique blend of realism, humor, knowledge, determination, and an infectious sense of wonder about the world around them. This variety not only enriches the story but also allows readers to see different perspectives and experiences, making the characters feel more authentic and engaging.

The settings are vividly described, immersing readers in the lush and vibrant Amazon jungle, making them feel as if they are experiencing the environment alongside the characters. From the exhilarating moments of spotting playful dolphins and colorful frogs to the adventurous treks through the dense forest filled with towering trees and exotic plants, the descriptions transport readers into a world teeming with life and beauty.

The writing is strong and descriptive, characterized by vivid imagery that draws readers in and paints a clear picture of the surroundings and the action taking place. However, while the characters and settings are compelling, aspects such as further character development and a clearer distinction between the various characters could be improved. This would help readers form a stronger connection with each individual, allowing them to become more invested in their journeys and challenges.

The plot itself is intriguing, adventurous, and informative, offering valuable insights into nature and the importance of environmental conservation. However, the main drawback of the book lies in its brevity; at around 140 pages, it is relatively short, which is understandable given its target audience as a children's chapter book. Nonetheless, this limitation impacts the depth of character development and the introduction to the race competition TV show the children participate in, known as "The Wild Life." More time spent with the characters and their development would have significantly enhanced the reading experience, making the book not only informative and adventurous but also allowing for a deeper emotional connection with the characters. This connection is crucial, as it leaves a lasting impression on readers, encouraging them to reflect on the themes presented long after they have finished reading.

Additionally, the book includes black-and-white illustrations that are charming and complement the text, though the inclusion of colored illustrations could have brought the scenes to life in a more vivid manner, helping readers visualize the story even better. The fact sheets at the end of each chapter are a wonderful addition, providing informative and enjoyable insights for readers of all ages. These fact sheets not only enhance the educational value of the book but also encourage curiosity and further exploration of the topics discussed, making the reading experience more interactive and enriching. Although the book is marketed for grades 2-4, some of the terminology may pose a challenge for younger readers. Therefore, it is recommended that they have an older child or adult nearby to assist with any difficult words or concepts, ensuring a smoother reading experience.

Overall, "Rain Forest Relay" serves as a promising start to a children's chapter book series, appealing to young readers who delight in stories that revolve around nature, teamwork, natural settings, adventure, and learning opportunities. The combination of an engaging plot, diverse characters, and educational elements makes it a valuable addition to any young reader's library, inspiring a love for nature and exploration.

Discussion Questions and Activities

Before Reading

What do you already know about rainforests? Make a list of facts or ideas.

Look at the cover of "Rain Forest Relay." What do you think the story will be about? Discuss your predictions.

What do you think teamwork means? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to achieve a goal?

Research one animal that lives in the Amazon rainforest. Share your findings with the group.
Art Prompt: Use available art supplies such as colored pencils, crayons, or play-dough to create a drawing, model, poster, or journal page of the animal you researched.

During Reading

As you read, keep a journal of the different animals and plants mentioned. Which ones are new to you?
Art Prompt: Make a visual journal page for each new animal or plant you learn about, including drawings and interesting facts.

Discuss the challenges Russell and his team face. How do they overcome these obstacles?

Identify moments in the story where teamwork is essential. How do the characters support each other?

Draw a map of the rainforest based on the descriptions in the book. Label key features and animals.

After Reading

What was your favorite part of the book? Why did it stand out to you?
Art Prompt: Create a visual representation of your favorite part using drawings, paintings, or digital art.

Discuss the importance of environmental conservation as presented in the story. What can we do to help protect our planet?

Develop a character profile for a key character. Highlight their strengths, weaknesses, and their role in the team. Alternatively, design a character profile for a character you create to include in the "Race the Wild" series.
Art Prompt: Accompany your character profile with illustrations and symbols that depict their characteristics and contributions.

Plan a group activity where you can work together to solve a problem or complete a task, similar to the challenges faced by Russell and his friends.

About the Author

Kristin Earhart is a talented author known for creating captivating children's stories that seamlessly blend adventure with educational themes. Her passion for nature and storytelling is evident in her work, inspiring young readers to appreciate the environment while enjoying the thrill of reading. Earhart's books feature vivid imagery and relatable characters, making them beloved by both children and parents. Growing up with a love for animals, she continues to cherish them in her life in Brooklyn, New York, where she lives with her husband, son, and a playful cat. Earhart is the author of popular children's book series such as "Race the Wild," "Puppy Powers," and "Marguerite Henry's Misty Inn," along with contributions to "The Magic School Bus" scholastic reader books.

Where to Purchase the Book

"Rain Forest Delay" is readily available through various online and physical retailers. You can check out these options:

Conclusion

"Rain Forest Relay" serves as an engaging introduction to the "Race the Wild" series, captivating young readers with its blend of adventure, teamwork, and educational insights about the Amazon rainforest. Kristin Earhart's ability to weave thrilling narratives with important themes of environmental awareness and conservation makes this book a valuable addition to any child's reading list. While the story presents some opportunities for deeper character development, its vibrant settings and diverse cast keep readers enthralled and eager to learn more about the natural world. This book not only entertains but also inspires a sense of curiosity and responsibility towards our environment, encouraging young readers to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature. As Russell and his friends demonstrate the power of collaboration and resilience, readers are left with a lasting impression that highlights the importance of friendship and teamwork in overcoming challenges. "Rain Forest Relay" is a testament to the joy of reading and the adventures that await in the great outdoors.