"Whack your fin! Thwap your fluke!
You are loud! You're a wonder!
I make smashes and splashes.
Water tickles my nose.
I blink my eyes and laugh."
Whales are the subject of much interest for young readers. As any school librarian will attest, whale books rarely make it back into circulation before they are checked out by another fan. Many who read this book will be surprised to find how much small children and their mothers have in common with a baby humpback calf and its mother.
The young narrator compares the whales' watery world with the place she calls home; both offer a safe harbor for growth and learning. As every day brings new experiences, the two young ones grow and flourish under the care of a nurturing, proud mother. Both love the water, sending waves of water skyward as they paddle and splash. Watching the whale send bubbles through its blowhole high into the sky, the child uses her breath to blow out candles, blow dandelion seeds into the air, and use a soapy mix to make her own shimmering bubbles.
The comparison between their daily lives and actions holds great appeal. Reading it aloud with young children will spark conversations about connections they can make as well. Ms. Kikuchi chooses watercolors as the perfect medium for her stunning artwork. Using variety in perspective, she captures the beauty of the ocean dwellers in detailed, glowing images. The curious and attentive whale watcher is often shown on white space, allowing readers to focus on what the child is doing and learning.
Back matter provides further clear information about these amazing mammals that awe people worldwide with their grace and immense size.
"Humpbacks are wonderful whales. It's an
unforgettable experience to watch them leap
powerfully into the air with their long flippers out
like wings."
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