When the Ocean Came to Town
La description
A love letter to the ocean, and to adapting to climate change, the newest picture book by award-winning creators Sal Sawler and Emma FitzGerald will inspire young readers to build better solutions, and communities.
A great storm is coming.
Gretchen loves the ocean. She dreams of going to the beach on her own, with no one to make her leave before she's ready. But between whispers of oil, plastic, and a rising sea, her parents warn her not to underestimate the strength of the water. A great storm is coming and everyone, big and small, must prepare to meet it when it does.
Gretchen soon sees the ocean's power firsthand when the tides rise high enough to threaten her home. Can she help her neighbours rebuild after the storm is over, or is the damage too great?
With a strong message of community-building and climate activism, this charming debut children's picture book from celebrated author Sal Sawler and award-winning illustrator Emma FitzGerald will inspire young readers to rebuild better, together.
Reviews
"Parents of elementary school children and their teachers can use this book as a gentle, valuable resource when approaching the topic of climate change. The whimsical art and use of colour underscores the strength of the ocean, the warmth of community, and the hopefulness in educating a child's imagination."
— Sheree Fitch, award-winning author, poet, and Officer of the Order of Canada"When the Ocean Came to Town tackles a challenging topic in a way that is fascinating and respectful of the young reader's ability to navigate a sophisticated and important conversation. Its thoughtful text is centred in the voice and character of the resourceful young protagonist. The illustrations are a whimsical delight, embodying the spirit of the Maritimes. A must-read!"
— Joyce Grant, author of Can You Believe It?"Under its topsy-turvy whimsy (brilliantly brought to life by illustrator Emma FitzGerald), When The Ocean Came To Town examines and honours our next generation?s budding agency in the face of climate change. Sal Sawler's sensitively observed story reminds us that the means with which children dream of play are the same with which they listen, interpret, and imagine the world anew — and because they do, their solutions to existing problems can prove to be more than we could ever envision. Sawler's deft and detailed writing captures these possibilities, offering them up to both young readers and their grown-ups."
— Jack Wong, Horn Book Award-winning author of When You Can Swim