Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Girl becomes activist, navigates friendships in fun story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Environmental activism takes center stage in STELLA DIAZ NEVER GIVES UP after young Stella, already interested in marine life, gets to go in the ocean while visiting family in Mexico. Back at an aquarium's summer camp in her hometown of Chicago, she's devastated to learn that the ocean is filled with trash and plastic. She pledges to reduce her waste and starts a club with friends at camp, trying to raise money and awareness for her cause. Stella's mom supports her efforts, and Stella tries to reach her goals while navigating her teen brother's changing moods toward her, and her friendships outside of camp.
Is It Any Good?
Filled with passion and warmth, these pages have a lovely blend of environmental activism and personal growth that perfectly targets young readers. In Stella Díaz Never Gives Up, Stella's passion and voice are natural and relatable, as are the challenges she faces with her friendships. Her concerns about mixing her ocean-obsessed camp friends with her two best friends from school is a worry most kids face at some point, and Stella models some great ways to bring people together. The sprinkling of Spanish words flows naturally throughout the story and enhances the reader's understanding of Stella's experience, especially her hesitation to speak Spanish because she can't do it perfectly. There are a lot of strategies here for budding activists and environmentalists, and a gentle, inspiring story.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the way adults respond to ideas in Stella Díaz Never Gives Up. How do their reactions help Stella become a better activist and friend?
How do you think Nick and Stella's relationship is going to change as they grow up?
What other books about activism have you read?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Friendship
- Topics : Activism , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , Animals ( Ocean Creatures )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Roaring Brook Press
- Publication date : January 14, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 6 - 9
- Number of pages : 208
- Available on : Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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