YOUth Review: Two Degrees by Alan Gratz

Two Degrees by Alan Gratz is a daring novel about climate change. Two Degrees is a historical non-fiction book based on real events, but with fictional characters you can empathize with. I like how it’s similar to Refugee with Alan’s writing style, but it also feels refreshing to read!

Two Degrees is a eye-opening read that really makes you think about climate change. The book follows three kids: Akira from Hawaii, Jordan from Florida, and Isabella from Alaska. Each of them is dealing with a huge environmental disaster—a volcanic eruption, a hurricane, and a melting glacier! As you read the book you start to see how these disasters are all connected and how they impact each other. What I liked about the book was how real the characters felt. Akira, Jordan, and Isabella aren’t just going through these events; they’re also dealing with their own fears and hopes. It makes their struggles feel personal and important. Alan does a great job of describing the disasters without making it too overwhelming. You can really picture the scenes and feel the characters’ fear and bravery. One thing that stood out to me was how the book makes a big issue like climate change more understandable for kids. It’s a great way to learn about something important while also enjoying a great story.

Overall, Two Degrees is a powerful book that mixes adventure with an important message. If you’re looking for a book that’s both exciting and thought-provoking, this one is for you. It inspired me and many others to treat climate change as a serious, important, and real issue.  

Written by Bryton K.