Read + Review: Clem Hetherington and the Ironwood Race by Jen Breach

Clementine Hetherington and her robot brother, Digory are the children of a famous archaeologist. Clem and Dig have lost their parents, who have died. Having run away from their orphanage, they are living on the streets and are trying to convince a friend of their parents to let them join an excavation. They meet another old friend of their parents, who they don’t trust, to join them in a race to find artifacts. Clem and Dig refuse but then join the race as payment for saving Dig’s life. Others in the competition want to sell the artifacts in the black market, but Clem and Dig want to give them to a museum. Will Clem and Dig win the race and give the artifacts to the museum? Read the book to find out.

I liked that the book explored the topic of archaeology because it is a topic I find interesting. I also enjoyed the surprising way the book ended. I would say more, but I don’t want to spoil the ending. Another good thing about the book was the close bond that Clem had with Dig. I loved seeing how their bond changed as the book progressed.

The most memorable thing about the book was the way it handled the concepts of right and wrong. Is it wrong to sell to the black market? Is it right to hurt someone when they hurt you and your loved ones? The book discussed these questions and others when it worked through Clem’s character and helped the reader get a better understanding of right and wrong.

Reviewed by Anika, Grade 6, Twin Hickory Library