The Secrets of Pond Street

By: Robert Benson

Narrated by: Heather Daniel

Karen Taylor may be just 12 years old, but she's old enough to know it's time for her to grow up and play a part in shaping her world. There are dangerous forces at work out there, forces she is just beginning to understand, and they are threatening the people and places she loves.

When she meets a man working with a surveyor to map out a section of the woods, she stumbles onto a secret plan to build a large industrial plant. The new plant has serious implications for Karen and her town, and for a rare salamander that lives nearby. The mayor and the developer are determined to build their plant and will roll over any obstacle to do it.

Karen also wants the plant to be built, but in a way that lets everyone benefit. She will even risk her own home to make it happen. But the forces of business as usual are very strong. What can a 12-year-old girl do to make it all work out?

©2011 Robert D Benson (P)2023 Robert D Benson

Secrets of finance and ecology

Vicki
I enjoyed this book as an adult but it seems perfect as a teaching tool for middle school. The narrator was personally involved in every aspect of a very grown up situation.
The narration was excellent. The voices of so many of the characters were recognizable and engaging.

Will listen with my daughter

I listened to this on my own but will definitely do it again with my young daughter. Loved the brave girl in this story.

Wonderful adventure tale for the young

This listening experience unspooled for me like a movie, a great family movie. The sixth grader heroine is authentic in all the adult problems, both moral and physical, that are thrust her way. Her brave mindful ability to overcome her fears and face up to painful questions of right and wrong are lessons for everyone. The fact that these lessons are not preachy, but a totally natural part of the adventure is a testament to the skill of Robert Benson as a fine author.

Adventures, Life, and Decisions

I greatly enjoyed this book. I grew greatly interested in the characters and the story quite quickly and was excited to continue listening. The problems that the main character faces and interesting and thought-provoking. The narrator does a fantastic job. It is worth a listen.