Turtle Summer

by: Mary Alice Monroe; Photography by Barbara J. Bergwerf

Published by: Sylvan Dell Publishing

Reviewed by Yuka Mizushima

Subtitled: A Journal for My Daughter

(If possible, read Swimming Lessons first)

Turtle Summer is based on the journal that Toy was writing for Lovie in Swimming Lessons. This children's book shows how Toy and Lovie spent the summer taking care of loggerhead sea turtles.

From May to August, Lovie and her mom are part of the Island Turtle Team. They wait for loggerhead sea turtles to return to lay their eggs. They mark the nests with orange signs so that the public will be careful not to disturb the nest. When the eggs hatch, they make sure that the hatchlings head back to the ocean.

This book has a mix of color photographs and drawings. It's a celebration both the mother-daughter relationship and the nesting and hatchling phase of sea turtles. I couldn't help oohing and ahhing when I saw the pictures of the hatchlings--they are too cute
Turtle Summer will be enjoyed by readers of all ages. It's a great way to teach children about conservation and endangered species. A section at the end of the back has activities that readers can do in the classroom or at home.

Mary Alice Monroe is a New York Times Bestselling author of ten novels. This is her first children's book. Barbara J. Bergwerf is a nature photographer whose photographs perfectly capture the beach environment.While the sea turtles are the stars of this book, readers will also enjoy the vivid photos of the birds and seashells.

Turtle Summer is a delightful book. The text and photos really capture the reader's interest. I think this book will easily become a family favorite.

Armchair Interviews says: Highly recommended!

Author's Web site: http://www.MaryAliceMonroe.com