Saving Thunder the Great: The True Story of a Gerbil's Escape from the Fort McMurray Wildfire

Leanne Shirtliffe

Boulder Publications, 2016

Agent: Jill Marr

"If you have to evacuate while I'm at work, just take Thunder the Great."

Those were Mamma's instructions the day before flames roared into Fort McMurray. On May 3, 2016, Mamma and Thunder the Great--a gerbil belonging to her son Jackson--were forced to flee their home. In a frightening rescue attempt, Mamma faces wildfire, traffic gridlock, an empty gas tank, and other challenges...all to get Thunder and herself to safety for the sake of her son.

Saving Thunder the Great is the true story of a hungry gerbil's rescue, a mother's love for her child, and the community who helps her.