Spring 2025

Starred Review Digger

Dig or Die!

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 6
  • Reading Level: Grade 3

In this dystopian middle-grade novel, a climate change disaster forces humanity to flee as Earth’s atmosphere escapes into space.

Narrated by siblings Nick and Lily, the story follows their resourcefulness in aiding neighbors. Nick’s digging prowess and Lily’s strategic planning become vital as oxygen diminishes. Nick unveils a hidden tunnel connecting houses, forming a lifesaving network as breathable air dwindles. Lily crafts a communication system with walkie-talkies and baby monitors to share critical information. A frantic race ensues to complete the tunnels before food and oxygen become scarce, a tense battle for survival in a world teetering on the brink.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-64371-399-1
$14.24
978-1-64371-401-1
$23.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on hardcovers and ebooks when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 6
Reading Level Grade 3
Category SEL: C Social Awareness, SEL: D Relationship Skills, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2025
Publisher Red Chair Press
Imprint One Elm Books
Language English
Number of Pages 240
Publication Date 2025-02-04
Text Type Fiction—Science Fiction/Fantasy
BISACS JUV059000, JUV001010, JUV029030
Dewey [Fic]
Dimensions 5.25 x 7.75
Lexile 580
Guided Reading Level V
Features Bibliography/further reading, Original artwork, Reviewed, Starred Reviews, Teaching Guides, and eSource

Reviews

School Library Journal

“Dig for your life in this scientific dystopian novel where the sky really is falling. . . . An additional purchase where science-based novels are needed.”—School Library Journal

Starred Review Booklist

“The fast-paced story includes social-issue themes, including bullying, mental health, and gun violence. Ortu’s crisp illustrations individuate Cholette’s diverse cast of characters and enhance her storytelling. Young readers will find this a (pun intended) breathtaking, page-turning read.”—starred, Booklist