Every Creature Has Value

Al Leal Author Interview

Alex’s Scuba Diving Thrills: Discovering Fish Species follows a curious young diver and his turtle companion on an underwater journey that introduces sea creatures while teaching respect for marine life. What inspired you to create Alex and his sea turtle companion, Tony?

Alex was created out of a desire to give children a character they could follow with excitement, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. I wanted Alex to be adventurous, brave, and open to learning, because those are qualities I believe every child should be encouraged to develop. Tony, the sea turtle, was the perfect companion because turtles represent wisdom, calmness, and a deep connection to the ocean. Together, Alex and Tony create a friendship that feels safe, uplifting, and full of discovery. I wanted young readers to feel like they were swimming right alongside them, exploring a world that is both beautiful and worth protecting.

How did you choose which sea creatures Alex would encounter on his underwater adventure?

I chose the sea creatures with young readers in mind. I wanted to include marine life that children would recognize, enjoy, and be excited to learn about, while also introducing them to a wider variety of ocean animals. Each creature was selected to bring something special to the story, whether it was color, movement, mystery, or beauty. I wanted the underwater journey to feel vibrant and alive. At the same time, I wanted every encounter to help children see that the ocean is filled with incredible life and that every creature has value and a place in that world.

What do you hope young readers learn about respecting marine life and ocean habitats?

I hope young readers come away with a sense of awe, but also with a sense of responsibility. The ocean is not just a place for adventure; it is a living habitat that deserves our care and respect. I want children to understand that marine life is precious and that even at a young age, they can learn to appreciate and protect the natural world. If this story helps a child become more curious, more thoughtful, and more mindful about how we treat animals and the environment, then it has done something meaningful.

Are there more adventures planned for Alex, and where might his curiosity take him next?

Absolutely. Alex was created to be a young explorer whose curiosity can lead him into all kinds of meaningful adventures. On my website, readers can already see that his journey continues through different worlds and experiences, from bull riding and the circus to scuba diving, scouting, and even aviation. That is what makes Alex special. He is always learning, always discovering, and always finding wonder in the world around him.

Where might he go next? Anywhere that sparks imagination, courage, and growth. He may explore new places, take on new challenges, or discover lessons about kindness, responsibility, faith, and perseverance. I want every Alex book to open a new door for young readers and remind them that learning can be exciting, adventure can be wholesome, and curiosity can lead to something beautiful. As long as there are new horizons to explore, I believe Alex still has many adventures ahead of him.

Author Links: Facebook | Website

Posted on July 4, 2026, in Interviews and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink. Leave a comment.

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