Orca Rescue by Donna Sandstrom (Kids can press) 5 Stars

Publication date 7/10/21 Pages 144

I knew from the moment I saw this book that my daughter would love this book. I did plan to mostly read it to her but no she loved it that much she read all the book to me in 2 days. This is a new record for her so thanks to Netgalley and the Author and publishing team for allowing me and my daughter review this beautifully wrote and illustrated novel.

Synopsis

A captivating account of the only successful orca rescue and reunion in history told in first person by Donna Sandstrom, a citizen participant of the rescue.In 2002, a young orca was spotted alone in Puget Sound near Seattle --- lost, underweight and 300 miles away from her home waters in Canada. Donna Sandstrom, an orca enthusiast in Seattle, eagerly joined the volunteer effort to help. Here she tells the riveting story, from identifying the orca as a missing calf named Springer; through making the decision to try to transport her home; to planning and organizing the trip; to, finally, releasing her near Vancouver Island, where Springer was reunited with her family. It's an incredible story of the only successful orca rescue and reunion ever, and readers will be captivated as the epic rescue unfolds!Donna Sandstrom's fascinating up-close-and-personal depiction of the rescue mission, with new behind-the-scenes details, uses an innovative mix of narrative storytelling interspersed with spreads of factual information about orcas and the history of their relationship with humans. Sarah Burwash's evocative watercolor illustrations make the perfect accompaniment to the text. Orcas and their survival are a topical issue, and readers will discover what it's like on the front lines of whale rescue, including the collaboration and teamwork that are required. There are numerous curriculum links to life science here, particularly animals and habitats, as well as to social studies in the descriptions of the connections and cooperation between Canada and the United States. The book includes a map showing Springer's trip, tips for how to help whales and dolphins, resources and a glossary.

My Review

Wow this is the best children's story ever that every child should read. This need to be under every Christmas tree. It is beautifully wrote and the pictures are just stunning. Normally me and my 9 year old daughter would read before bed and it would take at least 2 weeks to get through a book of this size. Not this book my daughter loved it that much that she was waking up early to read it and excited to go to bed early to read it. she didn't want the book to end. This book tells the story of Springer a very young orca, who was found all alone after her mother had been killed. How the community and 2 different countries come together to save the young orca's life. It gives easy explanations of how they live, eat etc. This is a true story and at the end of the book were real photos taken during the rescue and through Springers life. This is a book that all children should read, it's such a heartwarming tale. It even has a section educating children on how to keep our oceans safe for all wildlife. I can't thank the author enough for helping save this young orca's life. And to her friend who made you write this book. It is amazing we are so proud of you and thank you for inspiring me and my child to do what we can. PS part of this book is set in Manchester, Washington and we live in Manchester, UK. We loved having this connection. This book is suitable to read with your child from 3 up until 10 year old and also for adults who love children's books with beautiful illustrations.

This book is Ladyreading365 children's book of the year 2021