Middle Grade Books
The Evolution Revolution Series
“This is unbelievably brilliant, and I cannot say I’ve seen anything like this before.” Judge, 27th Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards.
“…Readers will enjoy the banter among the animals, as well as the way Jack develops into a leader as he wrangles uncooperative animals into going along with his plan. Daniels’s elegant b&w spot illustrations appear throughout, adding to the story’s appeal.” Publishers Weekly
Evolution Revolution: Simple Machines
Book 1
Winner of the bronze Feathered Quill Book Award!
JUDGES’ COMMENTS:
“You get an A+++ for all of your illustrations and your front covers are phenomenal. They all are eye-catchers that separate themselves from the pack! I do like the plots as well. “Simple Machines” is great for kids when it comes to learning about the environment. And the book is fantastic when it comes to learning the art & beauty of friendship.
In a quiet wood, a common gray squirrel will start a war. First he learns words and how to use simple machines like the wheel. Named Jack by the boy who teaches him, Jack sees construction machines invade his wood and threaten his nest and tree. Sharing what he’s learned with Sister, he calls a Gathering of the woodland animals to convince them to fight. Most of the animals, like Beaver, Bird and the Rabbits are afraid. Fox and Rat do not want to learn anything from a human, until Jack tells Fox his den will be the first destroyed by the machines. The animals unite: Beaver, Owl, Fox, Rat, and even Sister join the fight. They win one battle, but they may not win the war because the humans have become especially interested in them.
Here’s a radio interview from WEOL, in Elyria, Ohio. I was interviewed about the book on the Morning Show which is hosted by Craig Adams and Bruce Van Dryke: Listen
My radio interview with Rodger Nichols of Haystack Broadcasting from Dalles, OR, for his show, Cover to Cover; here
On Culture News Radio with David Sorero I give a quick synop and some personal peeks, on Evolution Revolution here
On the Dream Gardens podcast, Jody Mott interviews me about Jack and my favorite childhood book, Beautiful Joe, by Marshall Saunders. Listen here (my interview starts at 3:24, but he has a cool poem about Jellyfish Stew…
Reviews:
“I am delighted to have found a new author to support. Charlotte Bennardo seems to be the epitome of professionalism…a good novel to read in an elementary classroom…[It] has some humor, and lots of heart, and it is just the right length for a read-aloud book…Who doesn’t like a story about underdogs…” Michael Gettel-Gilmartin, Project Mayhem, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday
“The Hundred Acre Wood” meets “Watership Down” in this outdoor romp destined to be a classic. You’ll cheer for Jack and his woodland companions.” Darlene Beck-Jacobson, author, Wheels of Change, Notable Book 2015 National Council of Social Studies and Children’s Book Council.
“Books we must have though we lack bread” – Semicolon blog
“It was easy to see the story from the perspective of the forest animal characters…I look forward to reading the rest of Charlotte Bennardo’s books about Jack the squirrel and his friends. This book is very well written and is worth being read over and over again. Don’t squirrel this story away; read it and keep it at heart.” Farmgirl5100, Litpick Book Reviews Full review here
“This story is fun, vibrant, and thrillig. When the crows squawk and the beavers bang their tails and the deer bellow, the reader can almost feel the power of the woods come alive. Even the little illustrations here and there bring all sorts of emotions to the animals’ faces. And, of course, the meaning of it all is there in black and white…This is a world where habitats are ruined on a daily basis…Although this will be categorized as a pre-teen book, I recommend this to all ages. As the beloved Watership Down once taught us, sometimes we need to get back to a simple, straight-forward message in order to really understand what pain we continue to bring by wiping out nature.
Quill says: Bring Jack and his story home, and make sure the next generation learns the correct, kind way to treat every species out there.“Read the rest of the review here. Feathered Quill Book Reviews
Five star review! LitPick video review
“EVOLUTION REVOLUTION: SIMPLE MACHINES is the first book of a series that evokes the spirit of children’s classics like CHARLOTTE’S WEB and MRS. FRISBY AND THE RATS OF NIMH, and is perhaps a tamer (and, by all counts better) version of James Patterson’s ZOO. Told from Jack’s point of view, author Charlotte Bennardo gives the reader a unique and charming perspective, one that isn’t the sanitized animated classic view of animals but one that keeps them as true to their natural form as the story allows, including the interactions between predator and prey.
It’s a charming little fiction/science fiction piece until you learn about things like squirrels attacking politicians when they say mean things about them, at which point there’s maybe a little more to ponder on the subject. For now, enjoy Bennardo’s fiction — before it becomes a little too real.” Read the whole article here. Critical Blast
How do kids feel about Jack and his story? Three young readers each give Jack 5 stars!
This book is simply adorable! It is well-written and kept my interest, despite being geared toward a younger audience.
An intelligent squirrel named Jack takes the stage in this story. As he muddles through life as a squirrel, he meets a young boy named Collin. Collin shares a treat with him and also introduces Jack to a simple machine called the wheel. Jack, being the unusually smart squirrel as he is, figures out how to use it rather quickly and uses his newfound knowledge to save his forest. What I loved most about the story is that the author adopted the squirrel’s attitude and mannerisms to narrate the story. Even though it is written in third person, it feels as if you are seeing the world through Jack’s eyes as you read. Beautiful illustrations accompany the tale on every few pages, assisting the reader in building pictures in their mind. Evolution Revolution: Simple Machines is a cute story that would make an excellent read for animal lovers, reluctant readers, or as a read aloud. Moseso, LitPick
Evolution Revolution: Simple Machines is a story of a highly intelligent squirrel, Jack, and his mission to save his forest. Machines have been cutting down trees across the road from Jack’s home for weeks. One day the machines cross the road and start taking down Jack’s forest. Jack must think of a way to save his forest and all his friends. He meets with a friendly human in a wheelchair and learns that the wheels in the big, scary machines can be stopped by jamming rocks in them. Farmgirl5100
In the book Evolution Revolution: Simple Machines, a squirrel named Jack learns from a boy named Collin how the 1st simple machine, the wheel, is used. Later, Jack sees his forest dealing with an onslaught of human-made machines trying to build some houses. Jack assembles all the animals together and tells them how they can use his knowledge to stop the machines from destroying their home. Evolution Revolution: Simple Machines is the first book in the Evolution Revolution series and is all about stopping the man-made machines. Kevinhamster LitPick
Not a believer yet?
“Man Builds a ‘Bar’ for Squirrels”
“This former NASA and Apple Engineer built a Ninja Warrior course for squirrels”
“Bicycle-riding Chicago Alderman Injured in Squirrel Attack”
http://www.npr.org/2016/11/23/503108904/bicycle-riding-chicago-alderman-injured-in-squirrel-attack
“Red Squirrel Extreme Assault Course – Clever Critters, BBC Animals”
“Squirrel Video #4, Obstacle Course Kansas Wakeboard Chick”
“Double Squirrel Assault Course”
“Squirrel Steals Go-Pro and Carries It Up A Tree”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIEWgxuaPyA
“Try Not to Laugh, Squirrels and Raccoons”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5GYvvz7ZSw
Featured in:
The Write Path: A children’s, middle grade, and young adult book blog for both readers and writers
The Entertainment Report: The year’s best last minute gifts
Buy it here:
Amazon: Amazon
Smashwords: ebook
Evolution Revolution: Simple Plans
(Book 2)
Jack the squirrel and his woodland friends know the humans haven’t left the woods- and they’re watching the animals. Still, Jack wants to learn more things from his human friend, Collin so he takes the risk of going to Collin’s house. Jack’s learned about the wheel, rolling, wedges, and now Collin will introduce him to the wagon. While Sister and Bird are anxious to learn, the other animals aren’t sure. With Rat as his new buddy and the help of Owl and Sister, Jack shares his knowledge, but it may not be enough when Rat gets into trouble with the humans. Can Jack, Bird, Owl and the others save Rat before the humans take him away?
Is any of this story true? I give the scoop in my post for the Middle Grade Ninja. You’d be surprised how much fact is in fiction…
A review from Log Cabin Library! Check out Brenda’s review here, A kudos for my illustrator, Cathleen Thole-Daniels!
Michael Gettel-Gilmartin of Project Mayhem reviews Jack’s second adventure here. Even he’s come to love a rat.
See it on YA Central here.
Listen to my interview on WEOL in Ohio, here with Ancy “Bull” Barch and Matt Douglass, those charmers!
Not a believer yet?
“Bicycle-riding Chicago Alderman Injured in Squirrel Attack”
http://www.npr.org/2016/11/23/503108904/bicycle-riding-chicago-alderman-injured-in-squirrel-attack
“Red Squirrel Extreme Assault Course – Clever Critters, BBC Animals”
“Squirrel Video #4, Obstacle Course Kansas Wakeboard Chick”
“Double Squirrel Assault Course”
“Squirrel Steals Go-Pro and Carries It Up A Tree”
Buy it from Amazon
Evolution Revolution: Simple Lessons
(Book 3)
Winner of the Gold Feathered Quill Book Award!
JUDGES’ COMMENTS:
“The plot of this title is by far the best of all the books submitted for this category. The illustrations are great and the front cover scores a perfect 10!”
After helping Rat get free, the scientists come to Collin’s house, searching for Jack. Realizing how much danger Jack is in, Collin and his mother drive him to an animal sanctuary, where Jack meets up with Horse, a food-thieving raccoon, a mean cat, and other squirrels. Jack tries to decide if he wants to stay at the sanctuary, or run free into the woods. After Collin teaches Jack the rest of the simple machines, the arrival of the scientists starts one last battle; Jack will go free, or he’ll be caged forever.
Reviews:
“The author found a unique way to introduce and explain scientific principles to children while also demonstrating how anything can get done when you work together. Solving a problem is easier when everyone contributes to the solution. The reader will quickly develop a connection to Jack… and root for him as he works to save his animal friends and family. An interesting and fascinating read that can help teachers turn reluctant students on to science.” Elena Migliaccio, NYC educator, staff developer, educational consultant, and literacy coach.
Everything you want in a beloved children’s book! (5 STARS)
“Written with the same classic flair as ‘Charlotte’s Web’ and ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’, EVOLUTION REVOLUTION: Simple Machines contains everything you want in a beloved children’s book. Delightful characters spring to life in a vividly described woodland, complete with beautifully illustrated pictures. Perfect for older children looking for a great read, or to read to the young ones as a bedtime story. ~TopShelf Reviews
At Project Middle Grade Mayhem, Michael Gettel-Gilmartin writes: “All the strengths of the first two books are in evidence in the culmination of the series. Jack is a winning character who shows great leadership. The supporting cast is full of lively personalities- …There is danger from all corners–but also tender moments…” Read the rest of the post here…
Larry Whitler and Robin MacBlane of radio station WOCA and hosts of AM Ocala Live! interviewed me. Listen to me make them laugh…here (First 3 minutes were cut off, but you’ll get the gist.)
“One of the things that I’ve so enjoyed in reading Bennardo’s Evolution Revolution series is the way that she portrays her animals, the attention to detail to capture their mannerisms as the run, jump, and scamper through the trees… Jack is such a wonderful character… Each of these stories is packed with humor, adventure and are just the right length for a classroom read along and I wouldn’t hesitate in giving this to an animal story loving kid.” Brenda Tjaden, Log Cabin Library. Read the rest of the review here!
Not a believer yet?
“Bicycle-riding Chicago Alderman Injured in Squirrel Attack”
http://www.npr.org/2016/11/23/503108904/bicycle-riding-chicago-alderman-injured-in-squirrel-attack
“Red Squirrel Extreme Assault Course – Clever Critters, BBC Animals”
“Squirrel Video #4, Obstacle Course Kansas Wakeboard Chick”
“Double Squirrel Assault Course”
“Squirrel Steals Go-Pro and Carries It Up A Tree”
And in case you thought you couldn’t believe that,
“Woman Removed From Plane After Boarding with ‘Emotional Support Squirrel’”
Buy Jack’s story here: Amazon
Young Adult Books
Beware the Little White Rabbit…
An anthology celebrating the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. This collection of short stories ranges from Civil War era steampunk to sci fi to everything in between. A copy is even in the Lewis Carroll Museum in London! Published by Leap Books, my story is Alice Through the Wormhole. Alice is a space nomad and when a giant rabbit-like species steals her exotic-and costly-tea, she chases that rodent and must solve a riddle to catch the thief…
Reviews:
From Amazon customers:
“This is a must read for all fairy tale fans, who have dreamed of following Alice into the rabbit hole and seeing where it might lead them.”
“This is a great tribute to the 150th Anniversary of the original Alice in Wonderland, with stories, in different genres, settings, and time-periods, by some very talented authors.”
“Huzzahs for Beware the Little White Rabbit, a collection of thirteen YA short stories which capture the essence of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in thirteen different ways… My two favorites were the SF entries: Charlotte Bennardo’s “Alice Through the Wormhole” and David Turnbull’s “Alice, Last of the Beating Hearts” (how exciting can Alice get!).”
Buy it here (trade paperback and e book):
Blonde OPS
Expelled from yet another boarding school, this time for hacking, 16 year old Bec Jackson is shipped off to Rome to finish her homework and intern for Parker Phillips, editor-in-chief of one of the world’s top fashion magazines–and her mother’s friend. When a mysterious accident lands Parker in a coma, former supermodel and drama queen Candace Worthington takes over– right before the First Lady is to arrive for a cover shoot. But the ‘accident’ may not have been that, and when the First Lady’s life is threatened, Bec is determined to find answers. She’ll have to deal with bitchy models and demanding bosses, and two hunky guys, Italian bike messenger Dante and mysterious fashion blogger Taj, who are vying for her heart. (St. Martin’s/Dunne).
Reviews:
From Publishers Weekly: “Bennardo and Zaman (the Sirenz books) offer a light mystery filled with fashion tips, entertaining dialogue, a pair of potential romances for Bec, and an alluring Roman setting…an energized pace, ever-shifting suspects, and an intriguing glimpse into the benefits and drawbacks of art and fame.”
From cmldbookreviews ” …a delightful romp. Part romance, part mystery, all fun, it’s a great read for teens who like suspending a bit of reality to enjoy a good literary ride.”
“A big, delicious ice cream cone of a novel! A hilarious, fast-paced mystery/thriller combining high fashion…plus a couple of very hot guys and one of the most engaging and original heroines ever. I dare anyone not to love this!” Molly Cochran, NY Times bestselling author of Legacy.
“An absolute thrill ride of a story! I loved it!” Kristi Cook, author of Mirage.
“Clever and cute…a laugh-out-loud blast of a ride. Resist at your peril.” Leanna Renee Hieber, award winning author of Darker Still.
Here’s a podcast from Blonde OPS editor, Kat Brzozowski! listen to it here.
Buy it here:
Your local bookstore will be happy to order it for you, or go here:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
EBOOKS:
Sirenz
Bickering frenemies Meg and Shar are doing some serious damage at a midnight sample sale when the fashionistas find themselves arguing over a pair of shoes–with fatal consequences. One innocent bystander later, and the girls are suddenly at the mercy of Hades, Lord of the Underworld. To make them atone for what they’ve done, Hades forces them to become special assignment Sirens, luring to the Underworld someone whose unholy contract is up. Finding the delicate balance between their fashion addiction, school, and their new part-time job in the eternal hellfire biz turns out to be harder than the girls expected, especially when an entire pantheon of Greek deities decides to get involved. Then there’s the matter of the fine print in their own contracts… (Flux)
Reviews:
“A funny and cute debut that’s bound to make you laugh out loud. Bennardo and Zaman have written a novel like no other! Fantastic characters, beautifully written, well planned and a plot filled with crazy wonderful things! Fashion is about to get downright dirty!” The Badass Bookie
“Sirenz is not a novel to miss…fun, sarcastic, frustratingly awesome- that’s Sirenz.” Read Me, Bookmark Me, Love Me.
“Sirenz was such a fun book! One you could easily read in one sitting an enjoy the hell out of. …This was girl power through and through and I loved it!” A Story Untold
Buy it here:
EBOOKS:
Sirenz Back In Fashion
Hell on heels–again!
When Shar tries on a Tiffany’s diamond ring from Hades, the annoyingly hot Lord of the Underworld, it activates an obscure contractual clause that puts Shar and former-frenemy-turned-friend Meg into Hades’ service once more. Shar is whisked away to the Underworld to prepare a ball, while Meg is sent to retrieve the errant sould of spoiled rich girl Paulina Swanson and send her to the abyss. Just when it appears the girls will be doomed to serve Hades for eternity, Shar meets two possibly helpful and hot demi-gods. Can the girls finally ditch Hades once and for all? (Flux)
Reviews:
“The experiences of this sartorial odd couple are funny and entertaining…Bennardo and Zaman are bringing the gods ito the twenty-first century.” Booklist
“I found this book, to me, more addictive than the first…I loved to see all the new gods, demi-gods and historical figures that cropped up.” Quill Cafe
“I remember reading Sirenz last year and thinking what an awesome, funny story it is, you can swallow it whole in one sitting. Well, if possible, Sirenz Back in Fashion is even better!…Amazing, funny and clever…” A Story Untold
EBOOKS:
Charlotte Bennardo 
