It’s 1901, and the largest surviving grove of California’s giant sequoia trees is in danger of being gobbled up by Stone Lumber Company. A surprised Stanford University botany professor, Aldous Barkly, is called upon to help save them. In the Redwood Grove is rooted in historical fact, with a twist. Aldous Barkly and Amelia Rough, the central characters, live in a world where dogs, properly known as canines, coexist on an almost equal footing with humans. California history, the wonder of the natural world and character driven action make In the Redwood Grove a book that middle grade readers and their parents will learn from and enjoy.

Tom Polakiewicz was born and raised in San Diego, and graduated from the University of California, San Diego. He spent time in the U.S. Coast Guard, and practiced law for thirty years. With the Barkly books, he brings his appreciation for California’s rich history and natural wonders to a new generation of middle school readers.