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Project Jackalope

Name: Project Jackalope
Price: 13.99 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781452101552

✍️ Ecton, Emily

Reader Score

4.5

(1 review)

$13.99 ~~$15.99~~ Save $2.00 (12%)

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Jeremy's life takes an extraordinary turn when his eccentric neighbor leaves him a "jackalope"—a mythical creature, seemingly a rabbit, yet armed with razor-sharp antlers. This unexpected ward quickly attracts the attention of clandestine government agents, who covet the creature for their own obscure agenda. Jeremy must forge an uneasy alliance with his brilliant, albeit opinionated, neighbor Agatha. Together, they embark on a thrilling, humorous escapade to protect the unique animal from nefarious forces, all while attempting to complete their vital school science projects on time.

Ecton, Emily

📚 all books by this author (2) →

Praise for this book

“Will keep readers smiling to the very end.”

— School Library Journal

🏛 Chronicle Books 📅 2012 📖 256 pages 📔 Hardcover ISBN: 9781452101552

Fun Fact

Emily Ecton skillfully crafts a fast-paced, genuinely funny adventure that will captivate young readers with its unique premise and engaging characters. The book excels at blending humor with suspense, offering a fresh take on classic mythological creatures. Those seeking a deep exploration of occult lore might find it too lighthearted, as its primary strength lies in its comedic, action-driven narrative for a juvenile audience. It stands out in the contemporary juvenile fiction landscape for its distinctive voice.

📝 Description: Project Jackalope

Jeremy's troubles begin when his eccentric neighbor leaves him an "experiment" for safekeeping--a jackalope! This so-called mythological creature looks like a bunny rabbit, but comes with razor-sharp antlers and is purported to be a ruthless killer. When government agents show up at Jeremy's house seeking the jackalope for their own nefarious purposes, Jeremy must find a way to protect the jackalope, and himself. So he reluctantly joins forces with Agatha, his holier-than-thou genius neighbor. Together, with the jackalope (and his weapons-grade antlers) tucked away in a backpack, they have only one chance to save Jack and still get their science fair projects in on time. With her striking sense of humor, Emily Ecton has created a hilarious and suspenseful adventure, complete with a compelling and unforgettable cast of characters.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

While 'Project Jackalope' delivers a charming and fast-paced narrative, it may not suit readers seeking deep philosophical complexity or grimdark tones. The humor is light and the stakes remain grounded in school life and creature protection, which might feel too simplistic for mature fantasy enthusiasts expecting intricate world-building or political intrigue. However, for those who appreciate clear prose and whimsical plots, it succeeds. It does not appeal to adults looking for dense occult theory, as the esoteric elements are merely a backdrop for the adventure rather than the primary focus of study.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers who cherish heartwarming tales of unlikely friendships and humorous escapades will find much to love in this story. It offers a delightful escape for those who enjoy seeing ordinary teenagers navigate extraordinary circumstances with wit and courage. The dynamic between Jeremy and Agatha provides a refreshing take on mentorship and partnership, making it ideal for young adults seeking adventure without excessive darkness. Fans of quirky protagonists and mythical creatures will appreciate the unique premise, while educators might find its blend of science projects and fantasy elements engaging for reluctant readers looking for accessible yet imaginative narratives.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.5/5

★★★★★

If you're drawn to tales where the fantastical clashes with the everyday, where humor meets high-stakes adventure, and where unlikely young heroes save the day, then this journey is for you. Perfect for those who enjoy a dash of the absurd with their thrilling quests.

Reader rating

4.5

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

While 'Project Jackalope' delivers a charming and fast-paced narrative, it may not suit readers seeking deep philosophical complexity or grimdark tones. The humor is light and the stakes remain grounded in school life and creature protection, which might feel too simplistic for mature fantasy enthusiasts expecting intricate world-building or political intrigue. However, for those who appreciate clear prose and whimsical plots, it succeeds. It does not appeal to adults looking for dense occult theory, as the esoteric elements are merely a backdrop for the adventure rather than the primary focus of study.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Absolutely. While featuring a creature with "weapons-grade antlers," the narrative maintains a lighthearted, adventurous tone, making it an engaging and age-appropriate introduction to folklore creatures and thrilling escapades.

The "science fair projects" serve more as a backdrop for the adventure rather than a deep dive into advanced science. The focus remains on the action, humor, and the characters' ingenious solutions to their predicament.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Mythical Creatures in Modernity

This narrative ingeniously recontextualizes the elusive jackalope, a creature often relegated to folklore and tall tales, into a tangible, dangerous reality. It explores the implications of such a being existing in the contemporary world, blending fantasy with the mundane struggles of childhood and the sinister machinations of government.

Unexpected Heroism & Alliance

The story centers on Jeremy, an ordinary boy thrust into extraordinary circumstances. He finds himself reluctantly partnering with the highly intelligent, yet socially awkward, Agatha. Their unlikely collaboration highlights how different strengths can combine to overcome formidable obstacles, proving heroism often arises from unexpected places and unconventional friendships.

The Perils of Curiosity & Science

The "experiment" left by the neighbor, the government's desire to weaponize the jackalope, and the children's own science fair projects all underscore the dual nature of scientific pursuit. It examines how curiosity can lead to wonder or danger, and the ethical responsibilities that come with manipulating natural or mythical phenomena.

📜 Historical context

"Project Jackalope" taps into a rich vein of American folklore, specifically the myth of the jackalope—a horned rabbit. This tradition of blending local legends with adventurous narratives finds its modern expression here, offering a fresh, humorous take on cryptozoology within a juvenile fiction framework, reminiscent of tales where the mundane encounters the extraordinary.

📚 Glossary

Jackalope
Cryptozoology
Clandestine Operatives

📔 Questions to reflect on

If an unusual creature of myth suddenly appeared in your life, what would be your first instinct: to protect it, study it, or seek help?
How might an unlikely alliance with someone very different from you lead to unexpected success in a challenging situation?
Consider the ethical dilemmas Jeremy and Agatha face. When does scientific curiosity cross into dangerous territory?