Alan J. Hesse’s The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo in Brazil plunges readers into an enlightening, action-packed journey through the Amazon and beyond. This fifth installment in the series follows Captain Polo, an outspoken polar bear, as he tackles environmental challenges and the human greed fueling climate change. Alongside Penguin, his silent yet clever sidekick, Polo faces off against Tex Greedyman, a caricature of corporate excess, and navigates Brazil’s diverse ecosystems, from mangroves to rainforests, all while advocating for conservation and sustainable practices.

What struck me first was how the book blended humor and gravity. Hesse doesn’t shy away from critiquing destructive practices like deforestation or illegal mining, but he presents them in a way that’s approachable for all ages. For example, Polo’s run-in with conservationists who explain the significance of reforestation (“Bird poop helps forests grow back naturally!”) had me laughing out loud, while simultaneously learning about nature-based solutions to climate challenges. The scenes with Penguin accidentally becoming a Brazilian soccer champion were as absurd as they were delightful, offering moments of levity amid the book’s serious undertones.

I particularly appreciated the depth Hesse brought to his environmental advocacy. When Polo discovers the role of mangroves in carbon storage, the comic format vividly illustrates how their destruction could exacerbate global warming. The conversation between Polo and a sustainable rancher about silvopasture and agroforestry also stood out. It was refreshing to see solutions presented alongside problems, which transformed the book into a call to action rather than just a critique. The visual storytelling here was dynamic and engaging, making complex topics feel digestible. The slapstick moments involving Tex stranded on an island, battling crabs and coconuts, made me chuckle but also highlighted the futility of greed when pitted against nature.

The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo in Brazil is an engaging read that I’d recommend to anyone interested in environmental issues, particularly families and educators looking for a creative way to discuss climate change. It’s perfect for kids who love animals and adventure but also offers plenty for adults who appreciate witty storytelling with a purpose. Hesse masterfully balances humor, education, and advocacy, making this a memorable addition to the Captain Polo series.

Pages: 60