Wings and Rescue
by Marla Welsh

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Henry Davis is walking his dog, Lady, through his family’s Colorado farm when he comes across an injured bald eagle. Without a second thought, Henry rescues the wounded bird. This single act of compassion becomes a spark that helps Henry see just how big an impact a 6th grade student can have. Henry and his family bring the bald eagle to The Care for Many Critters Foundation, where Henry begins volunteering, keeping an eye on his new friend, whom he is allowed to name Boone after his hero, Daniel Boone. Henry looks up to both the bird and his namesake for their love of the outdoors and care for the world around them. While working at the foundation, Henry has an inspiring idea for the annual county environmental competition: a waterfront cleanup. But it is not smooth sailing for the eager naturalist. Henry must navigate his younger sister, Megan, whose enthusiasm and incessant questions push Henry to the edge. Worse still are his neighbors and schoolmates, the Mondorf twins—two boys who have made it a mission to torment Henry and his friends. Despite the obstacles, Henry is determined to win the grand prize—$1,000 and a ride with the mayor in a hot air balloon. Henry cannot do it alone. He will need the help of his parents, the foundation staff, and his good friends. But, even with a strong support system, can Henry withstand the Mondorf twins’ devious plots to sabotage his work and hurt those closest to him?

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Growing up, Marla Welsh rescued and cared for many animals. This love for animals and passion for the environment was passed on to her youngest son, who currently works as the director of operations at an animal sanctuary. Marla’s gift of inspiration extends beyond her immediate family: Marla has twenty-eight years of teaching grades 6–8 science, social studies, and language arts. She has been recognized as an excellent teacher and leader, receiving Teacher of the Year and environmental awards. Marla sponsored a horticultural club and wrote many grants to fund an outdoor classroom and nature trail. Outside of her work in education, Marla has spent many weeks volunteering for the Alveus Sanctuary, a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary and virtual education center that provides permanent homes for non-releasable animals. Marla continues to assist the sanctuary in building and expanding the enclosures. She is a member of Magnolia Garden Club of Georgia and works on many community projects. Marla lives in North Georgia, with her husband, two rescue dogs, and two rescue cats.

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Contributors

Author

Marla Welsh