By Lindsey Shay | Contributor
InJourney to Justice, readers are transported to a speculative future where global warming has dramatically transformed life on Earth. Following the thrilling escapades of Spider and Ruby, Tanni Haas expertly introduces key themes of climate change and environmental justice, creating a narrative that is both captivating and educational for a diverse audience.
Review:
Tanni Haas’s debut novel showcases his talent not only for storytelling but also for illuminating critical issues related to climate change. Journey to Justice follows Spider and Ruby, two young individuals navigating a waterlogged world shaped by environmental calamity. Their exhilarating journey unfolds as they confront numerous hurdles, each revealing much about the threats posed by our warming planet. Each character is carefully crafted with rich backstories that contribute to the broader conversation around climate issues, underscoring the narrative’s educational ambition.
Haas makes an impactful choice in addressing a subject of great urgency by engaging younger readers. As the story unfolds, he delves into the historical events that have culminated in their current plight. It’s a tale of resilience, resolve, and the power of individual action against substantial challenges, ultimately conveying the message of perseverance and the ability to instigate positive change.
Targeted at youthful readers aged 9 to 12, Journey to Justice presents a thought-provoking and exhilarating narrative that captivates from the very first page. Tanni Haas delivers an action-filled tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
“Spider felt immense pride for his brother but also for himself and Ruby. It was a strange yet wonderful feeling to be together in that small shack. The future was defined not by divisions but by a sense of togetherness. They all needed to learn the importance of cooperation.”
- Excerpt from Journey to Justice
Q&A with Tanni Haas:
GLF: You’ve authored other works, but this is your first fiction piece. It’s exciting to see your writing compared to Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians and John Flanagan’s Ranger’s Apprentice. Are you a fan of those series? In what ways do you think Journey to Justice aligns with or diverges from them?
TH: This is indeed my initial full-length fictional work, though I have penned numerous short stories published elsewhere. I admire both Riordan and Flanagan and feel honored by the comparisons … Similar to their books, Journey to Justice features three protagonists: Spider, Ruby, and Luke. At their core, my characters embark on a mission to improve the world, navigating through trials to achieve their goals. However, while their stories unfold in fantastical realms, mine takes place in a reality that resonates today!
GLF: Given that global warming is a critical issue, is it a cause you’re deeply passionate about? Why did you choose to reach out to a younger audience?
TH: Absolutely. Global warming is arguably the most pressing issue we face, encompassing our very survival as a species. The decision to address this topic to younger readers stems from my belief that they are the future – it’s essential we guide them on how they can contribute positively. Additionally, children possess a strong moral compass and are well-positioned to understand the importance of creating a more sustainable world.
GLF: Are Spider and Ruby inspired by real-life figures, and how did you make them relatable to your audience?
TH: The characters draw inspiration from Greta Thunberg, the young Swedish environmental activist who has significantly motivated both leaders and citizens to combat climate change. My aim was to illustrate that meaningful change requires both thoughtful consideration and bold action. Spider represents introspection while Ruby captures a more proactive spirit. They resonate with young readers because many do not feel adequately recognized by adults for their efforts.
GLF: What key takeaways do you hope young readers will gain from Journey to Justice? (Without divulging the ending!)
TH: I want readers to realize that all hope is not lost. A central message of the book is that we can still take action to preserve our planet for the future. Readers should not passively wait for change; it’s each of our responsibilities to act. Furthermore, while the journey for improvement is fraught with difficulties, those challenges can be overcome with determination.
GLF: Is this the beginning of a series? What adventures lie ahead for Spider and Ruby?
TH: Yes, Journey to Justice marks the first book in a planned trilogy. I can share that in the follow-up, Spider and Ruby discover that not the entire planet is submerged as they believed, leading them on a hot air balloon adventure to a hidden land beyond a massive dam. The third book involves their journey to Mars, where they find that the planet has been colonized by individuals with malicious intentions. The trilogy will conclude as they return to Earth, striving once more to make it a thriving place for all, as it remains our best hope for the future!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College. He is the author of five other books and numerous short stories.
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Journey to Justice
Journey to Justice: The Adventures of Spider and Ruby – Kindle Edition
by Tanni Haas (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
| 4.9 out of 5 stars 12 ratings |
Journey to Justice, the first book in The Adventures of Spider and Ruby series, is a gripping and fast-paced novel set in a future ravaged by climate change where the Earth is predominantly underwater. Survivors reside on houseboats or in expansive underwater greenhouses, serving a privileged group known as The Chosen, who control the world from an enigmatic island. The narrative follows Spider, a HouseBoater, and his friend Ruby, an AquaGrower, on a daring mission to rescue his twin brother Luke, who has been imprisoned for leading a revolt against The Chosen. Their journey is fraught with peril, including encounters with marauders, prison escapes, and thrilling chases.
