Description

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Ayla notices that the once-vibrant corals in the reef near her beautiful island home have turned pale. She and her mom decide that they need to save the corals--but is it too late?

Ayla lives on a beautiful tropical island surrounded by a coral reef. Her mom is a marine biologist, and every day, the two go exploring together. One day, Ayla notices that many of the fish have disappeared, and the once-vibrant corals have turned pale. She and her mom set out to save the corals--but is it too late? Includes back matter about reef restoration and the real person who inspired the story.

About the Author

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Clara Anganuzzi was raised in the Seychelles Islands, where she would draw on every surface she could find. She has always had a fond love for the sea and all types of critters, who often inhabit her drawings. Clara now spends her days doodling in her plant-filled studio overlooking Bristol.

Clara Anganuzzi was raised in the Seychelles Islands, where she would draw on every surface she could find. She has always had a fond love for the sea and all types of critters, who often inhabit her drawings. Clara now spends her days doodling in her plant-filled studio overlooking Bristol.

Praise For…

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A girl and her marine biologist mother save a coral reef.

Ayla lives on an island surrounded by “a vast turquoise ribbon—a coral reef.” Not only does Ayla love swimming through the vibrant underwater habitat, but she also appreciates its importance to the surrounding environment. She’s shocked one day to discover that a section of the reef looks pale and colorless—and that vast numbers of fish are leaving the area. Ayla’s mother explains that rising ocean temperatures are responsible for the reef’s condition and for the fish’s mass exodus. All is not lost, though, because Ayla’s mom has an idea. Together, Ayla and her mother gently and carefully harvest healthy, living coral and place it into a tank in their home. There, submerged in water that’s the right temperature, the coral grows. Eventually, Ayla and her mother move the coral back into the ocean, where Ayla lovingly tends to it until it thrives. Will Ayla’s hard work be enough to allow her beloved fish to return? This delightful, informative, child-friendly story, based on the work of marine biologist Chloé Pozas (who’s interviewed in the backmatter), lyrically and cleverly incorporates a slew of fascinating facts. The bright, detailed illustrations, dominated by hues of blue, will captivate young readers, as will the idea that we can all do something to save our planet. Ayla and her mother are brown-skinned.

A stirring tale about preserving precious marine life. (more information on coral reefs and how to protect them, websites) (Picture book. 4-8) —Kirkus Reviews