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Beneath the Blue
Beneath the Blue follows Claudia, Charlie, Chuck, and their surprising connection to a magical compass that ties into the fate of the ocean itself. What begins with frustration over a sand sculpture competition quickly spirals into an underwater adventure with mermaids, King Triton, and the ancient prophecy of the Heart of the Ocean. The plot balances lighthearted moments with themes of jealousy, truth, and teamwork, and it uses oceanic imagery to build a whimsical yet meaningful world.
I found myself swept along by the energy of the writing. The pacing never lags for long. Scenes shift quickly from conflict to discovery, keeping me curious about what would happen next. Claudia’s arc is one of the strongest elements. She begins bitter, selfish, and angry, and I honestly disliked her at first. But her vulnerability and eventual change gave the book its emotional weight. The dialogue leaned a little too neatly into teaching lessons, but it worked for the story’s age group.
The worldbuilding charmed me. The underwater kingdom glowed in my imagination, with coral mosaics, pearl-lit halls, and shimmering grottoes. The author clearly took joy in describing the setting, and that joy spilled over to me. Another thing I really liked was the sense of teamwork and loyalty between Charlie and Chuck. Their friendship felt genuine and steady, and it gave the story a heart that balanced Claudia’s jealousy and struggle. I loved how Chuck always looked out for Charlie, calming his nerves and giving him courage when he felt small. That bond made their victories feel earned, and it added a layer of warmth that kept the book from being just about magic and danger.
Beneath the Blue is a warm and hopeful story about friendship, honesty, and learning to let go of envy. It would be a great read for kids who like fantasy adventures, especially those who love the ocean and tales of hidden kingdoms. Parents reading alongside their children will probably enjoy the charm too. If you’re looking for a book that mixes light adventure with heartfelt lessons, this one will be a good fit.
Pages: 76 | ASIN : B0FM4M1GXX
The Secrets of the Shallows
Gloria Barnett’s The Secrets of the Shallows plunges readers into a mesmerizing underwater world brimming with life, adventure, and purpose. Set on the idyllic Caribbean island of Pontus, the story revolves around Lucy, a resourceful and spirited young diver who shares her love of the sea with her close-knit group of friends. Their paradise, however, is threatened when a corporation proposes building hotels to attract tourists. As tensions rise, unscrupulous individuals destroy turtle eggs on the beach to fabricate a narrative of marine life decline, further pushing the project forward. Refusing to stand by as their home and its fragile ecosystem face destruction, Lucy and her friends embark on a mission to protect what they love.
Barnett’s evocative storytelling stands out as one of its most compelling aspects. Vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers into the underwater realm, capturing the fluid dance of light on water and the rich biodiversity of the ocean. The narrative structure is tight and engrossing, propelling the reader through Lucy’s challenges while celebrating her bond with her friends. Humor, camaraderie, and the power of solidarity infuse the story with warmth and relatability. Barnett’s passion for marine conservation is evident in every word, fostering empathy for sea creatures and a profound respect for nature without ever feeling preachy.
Adding to the book’s charm are supplementary features, including a photo guide to the marine species featured in the story and a detailed illustration of Lucy’s diving equipment. These thoughtful additions enrich the reading experience, making the book not only a compelling narrative but also an educational resource.
The illustrations, while beautifully executed, are relatively sparse. I feel that including them within the chapters could have enhanced the reader’s ability to visualize the marine creatures as they appear. However, their placement at the end provides convenient access for quick reference. Beyond the visuals, the book’s detailed world-building and character development shine. Lucy and her friends aren’t just brave adventurers—they embody teamwork, critical thinking, and proactive problem-solving. Their efforts to engage the mayor and propose peaceful solutions underscore the importance of collaboration and dialogue in tackling real-world challenges.
Gloria Barnett weaves a tale that is both entertaining and inspiring, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean and the urgency of protecting it. The Secrets of the Shallows is a testament to the power of storytelling to ignite passion, educate, and empower, making it a must-read for nature lovers of all ages.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B08JKP56TR
Shadows of Our Past
Revisiting the Depths shares with readers your story of self-discovery, healing, and transformation when, after thirty years, you take a chance to overcome your fears and start diving again. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Revisiting the Depths isn’t just a story about diving; it’s a journey back to the core of who I am. After three decades, I chose to confront the fears that had held me captive for so long. It was a chance to reclaim a part of myself I thought I had lost forever. This book is my way of understanding that healing is a journey, not a destination. I wrote it as a reminder—to myself and to others—that it’s never too late to confront the shadows of our past, find peace, and connect more deeply with our true selves. Writing this book was an act of courage, but above all, it was an act of love—love for oneself, love for others, and love for the natural world that sustains us all.
What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The hardest part of writing Revisiting the Depths was reliving a harrowing memory from my PADI Open Water Certification, where I knelt fifty feet underwater, stripped of my equipment, feeling vulnerable and isolated in the vast emptiness of the sea. Confronting the sensation of being utterly alone, with no instructor in sight, I had to face my deepest fears and admit my vulnerability. This raw honesty, though painful, was liberating. By acknowledging my fears, I began to disarm them, each sentence a step towards reclaiming a lost part of myself. Through this painful process, I discovered a deeper strength, transforming fear into a powerful force for healing and self-discovery.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
There were several ideas I felt compelled to share. First, fear is not something to be ashamed of; it’s a universal experience, and while it can be paralyzing, we have the choice to let it propel us forward. Facing fear requires patience, compassion, and courage.
Second, I emphasized self-discovery, showing that embracing change is essential for personal growth. Life constantly changes, and so do we. By being open to these changes, we allow ourselves to grow and evolve.
Third, I highlighted the healing power of nature, particularly the ocean, where I found a sense of clarity and peace. Our natural environment is not merely a setting we move through; it is a living, breathing entity that nurtures and sustains us, providing a deep sense of calm and perspective. We have a responsibility to protect this environment, not only for ourselves, but for future generations. In doing so, we honor the intricate web of life that connects us all, ensuring that nature’s healing and wisdom continue to enrich us, and that its beauty remains for us and our future generations to marvel at.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
My wish for readers of Revisiting the Depths is that they find a companion in their own journeys. I aim to offer them a sense of connection and understanding, letting them know they are not alone in facing fear, uncertainty, and personal growth. Through the experiences and lessons shared in the book, I aspire to bring them comfort, encouragement, and a renewed sense of strength. I hope readers will walk away with the belief that they, too, can overcome their challenges and discover the peace and fulfillment that comes from embracing life’s depths, both the beautiful and the difficult.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Dive into Revisiting the Depths, where an award-winning memoir meets self-help in a powerful narrative of healing and personal transformation. This inspiring journey delves deep into the heart of fear and struggle, leading to resilience, peace, and self-discovery.
In Revisiting the Depths: Overcoming Fear and Finding Peace – A Journey of Transformation, award-winning author Amy Tan takes readers on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. After a harrowing first dive experience leaves Amy paralyzed by fear and anxiety, she spends decades avoiding the ocean that once captivated her. Thirty years later, driven by a yearning to conquer her past and reconnect with the underwater world, Amy faces her deepest fears head-on. What begins as a quest to rediscover her passion for diving quickly becomes a profound journey of personal growth and healing.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tioman Island, this award-winning memoir chronicles Amy’s emotional and spiritual journey as she navigates the underwater world. With vivid descriptions and heartfelt reflections, Amy shares her experiences of overcoming personal obstacles, finding solace in nature, and reconnecting with her true self.
Guided by her compassionate divemaster, Sebastian, and supported by her loving husband, Amy learns to trust herself and embrace vulnerability. Each dive becomes a metaphor for life’s challenges, offering lessons in resilience, courage, and the beauty of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Revisiting the Depths is more than a memoir; it is a testament to the transformative power of nature and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Amy’s story will inspire readers to confront their fears, seek peace in the natural world, and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and healing.
Join Amy Tan on this unforgettable journey beneath the waves. Dive into Revisiting the Depths: Overcoming Fear and Finding Peace – A Journey of Transformation today and discover the profound lessons that await in the depths of the ocean.
Old Crabby Turtle’s Big Rescue
Old Crabby Turtle‘s Big Rescue by Cynthia Olsen and Michael Stark is a delightful children’s story about teamwork, bravery, and friendship. The story follows Little Fishy and his seaweed forest friends as they embark on a rescue mission to save their friend Starry the Starfish and his companions, who have been captured by humans. Guided by Old Crabby Turtle, the group journeys through the ocean, led by Dolphin’s remarkable hearing, until they finally reach the ship where their friends are being held. The story takes an exciting turn when Octopus, with her cleverness and the help of a kind boy, frees the captured starfish and saves the day.
I found this children’s book both charming and engaging. One thing I liked most was how it subtly emphasizes the importance of each sea creature’s unique abilities. Dolphin uses his exceptional hearing to guide the group, and Octopus, with her many brains, cleverly unlocks the container holding Starry. This kind of storytelling gives children an encouraging message that everyone has something special to contribute, which is a beautiful way to teach teamwork.
The authors also skillfully capture the tension and excitement of the rescue mission, making it a fun and adventurous read. The writing flows smoothly, and the dialogue between the sea creatures is both lively and easy to follow. The character of Old Crabby Turtle, despite his name, is wise and caring, showing the children how to remain calm and plan carefully. I particularly loved the part where Octopus takes charge, knowing she is the only one capable of the daring task. Her persistence in trying to open the locked container is one of the most engaging moments in the book and demonstrates to young readers the power of determination.
Nathalie Kranich’s illustrations truly bring the story to life. The vibrant and detailed artwork complements the narrative, making each scene more immersive. The sea creatures are illustrated with warmth and charm, and there’s plenty for children to explore visually on each page. One of my favorite illustrations shows the moment the kind boy helps Octopus free Starry and the other starfish, a touching reminder that kindness and cooperation can come from unexpected places.
Old Crabby Turtle‘s Big Rescue is a lovely story with themes of bravery, teamwork, and kindness that would resonate with young readers. It’s perfect for children who enjoy adventure tales and stories about the ocean.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DBVV53DK
Old Crabby Turtle
Old Crabby Turtle by C.L. Olsen is a charming and heartwarming children’s book about bravery, trust, and friendship. It follows the journey of a little fishy who lives with his mother in a seaweed forest as he gets caught by the grumpy Old Crabby Turtle after wandering too far from home. The turtle, known for his bad temper, threatens to make little fishy his dinner. However, instead of giving in to fear, little fishy offers to help the old turtle by bringing Mr. Swordfish to remove the painful, rusty fishhook stuck in the turtle’s foot. In doing so, the characters learn valuable lessons. Little fishy learns about bravery, Mr. Swordfish learns about helping others, and Old Crabby Turtle learns about trusting again.
One thing that really stood out to me was how well this picture book communicates important life lessons without feeling preachy. The author uses the story to teach children that even those who seem mean or distant, like Old Crabby Turtle, might be hurting inside. When little fishy remembers what his mother told him about bullies, it’s a pivotal moment in the story. The message that helping others, even those who may not deserve it at first glance, is a powerful one, and I love how it’s woven into the plot in such a gentle way.
The illustrations by Nathalie Kranich are absolutely delightful and elevate the story even further. Every page is vibrant and full of little details that make it visually engaging for young readers. I particularly loved the image of the old turtle sighing with relief after the fishhook was removed. These bright, detailed images complement the story’s whimsical tone, and they keep young readers immersed in the underwater world while also making the lessons more relatable.
What I also appreciated is how the story encourages emotional growth for each character. Little fishy’s bravery is tested, Mr. Swordfish is convinced to help despite his reluctance, and Old Crabby Turtle learns to trust after years of isolation. It’s a layered story that works on different levels, offering children not just a fun adventure but also gentle reminders about kindness, forgiveness, and friendship. The final celebration with all the sea creatures is a fitting end to a story that is as uplifting as it is instructive.
Old Crabby Turtle is an engaging and beautifully illustrated children’s book that is perfect for young children, especially those who might be dealing with the complexities of friendship or learning how to face fears. Its heartwarming message, combined with its colorful art and light humor, makes it a great read-aloud option for parents and educators.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0BJYMGRDK
Respecting Differences
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine follows a young girl attending a CPR training who discovers a myriad of mystical underwater creatures battling to save their environment. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I love to read the newspapers each morning – one local and one international. I came across the story of an ongoing battle between an international water bottling company’s use of a beautiful water spring for its product. The water use was being contested by the local government and environment-protectors.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
My favorite part of world and story building is the research. I live in Florida, a water state, and in this book I wanted to showcase that particular environmental feature in Maxzyne’s third adventure. An underwater mission in a mythical world of ancient nixies, naiads and double-crossing fire salamanders was too much fun to imagine and write.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Getting along with others is always a theme that resonates with me. Maxzyne has to learn to work with Oliver, a nerdy and overbearing partner in this underwater adventure. It’s quickly apparent that egos only get in the way. Thankfully, by the end, both characters admire and respect their differences, finding ways to cooperate and help save the sacred springs from destruction. Respect for the environment is also prominently featured in this book. I walk the beach every day and hate to see the litter left behind by daily visitors. Plastic, in the form of water bottles, is an unfortunate invention that must be swept into the dustbin of history before it chokes all earth’s tributaries, seas, and creatures.
Can fans look forward to more adventures from Maxzyne in the near future?
Absolutely! She’s hard to keep up with, but I think she just may have a jaunt in space soon…
Author Links: Website | Book Review
Will Sereia, the vain water hag in cahoots with greedy Westbrook water-bottling company, prevail in her evil plan?
Maxzyne must work with an overbearing Eagle Scout classmate, Oliver, in a battle that tests the wits and will of two very unlikely partners. Can they survive each other and this dangerous aquamarine sphere that needs their help to exist?
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine, by Caroline Lee, is a whimsical dive into the adventures of an eleven-year-old girl, Maxzyne Merriweather, who stumbles into an underwater world filled with naiads, nixies, and a plethora of aquatic creatures during what she expected to be a mundane CPR class in Florida. The story quickly shifts from CPR dummies to a full-blown fantasy adventure where Maxzyne must help save the enchanting Liliana Springs from a greedy corporation intent on draining the natural springs for profit. This book weaves environmental awareness into a captivating narrative that blends fantasy and reality in a way that is sure to captivate young readers.
From the get-go, I was drawn to Maxzyne’s quirky, headstrong personality. She’s the kind of protagonist who makes you grin with her quick wit and eye-rolling disdain for teamwork, yet you can’t help but root for her as she navigates a world that’s as foreign as it is fascinating. One of my favorite moments is when she impulsively decides to borrow a paddleboard to investigate a group of mermaid-costumed girls, only to find herself pulled into the magical depths of Liliana Springs. This scene perfectly captures her adventurous spirit and the book’s blend of reality with fantasy.
The writing is lively and vivid, filled with enough detail to make the underwater world of Liliana Springs come alive without bogging down the pace. The way Caroline Lee introduces environmental themes like water conservation and the impact of pollution feels natural and engaging. The book immerses readers in a story where the stakes are high, and the consequences of human actions are made clear through the eyes of both magical and real-world creatures.
I particularly appreciated the character of Glenys, the naiad queen, whose mix of wisdom and urgency makes the environmental message resonate without feeling forced. Oliver’s character serves as a nice foil to Maxzyne. His know-it-all attitude and obsession with facts contrast sharply with Maxzyne’s more impulsive nature, making their interactions both amusing and educational.
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine is a delightful read that I would highly recommend for young readers, especially those who love fantasy adventures with a touch of real-world issues. It’s perfect for kids who have a curious mind and a passion for the environment, or who simply enjoy a good, magical adventure.
Pages: 248 | ISBN : 978-0990661757
Mysterious Depths of the Sea
Stranded: Cetacea Chronicles follows a group of immortal Dolphin Riders who are responsible for helping to maintain the marine ecosystem. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had been sketching out ideas for the characters and the stories that I wanted them to tell for many years, but I didn’t have time to actually write it until my newborn was diagnosed with cancer in 2014. It seems ridiculous that I would actually have more time to do something like this during such a time, but there was a lot of sitting and waiting at medical facilities. So, naturally, I rocked my baby and wrote a book on my phone. I wanted the first book to deal with the stranding of cetaceans because it is one of the most baffling behaviors they exhibit. After lots and lots of research, I discovered The Morbillivirus, dubbed it “The Great Sickness of Old,” and I was on my way.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this book?
I fell in love with the ocean at age five, and I devoured every piece of literature I could find on the subject. Sadly, the few books I found did not sweep me away into the mysterious depths of the sea quite the way my own imagination did. I wanted to share these dreams with others as well as teach them as much as possible about these majestic creatures that I love so much. By leading young readers to fall in love with these animals, I just might help ensure another generation of sea guardians.
What was one scene in the novel that you felt captured the morals and message you were trying to deliver to readers?
When the whales are stranded on the beach at the end of chapter 4, they have a quick discussion about calling out to get help from people. Their matriarch, however, has heard troubling stories about “Those Who Walk on Two Legs.” This makes her decide to keep her family quiet. Although brief, this scene offers a glimpse at the long and rocky relationship that we have had with whales over the centuries. I wanted children to think about why this caution exists as well as ways to improve the relationship in the future.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
This is the first of many stories I hope to write in this series. Even though I finished writing the book in 2015, I was unable to find time to publish until the Covid lockdown. It was only a strange coincidence that I published a book about a virus during that time, but I immediately began work on the next book. Entangled: Cetacea Chronicles Volume 2 is complete and with the editor now. I hope to release it within the next few months.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Website | Amazon
In this highly original book, the author combines a gripping fantasy story with impressive amounts of factual information about marine life. While the beautiful color photos illustrate the real world of marine mammals, aquatic plants, and sea birds, readers of all ages will enjoy using their imaginations to picture the magical Isle of Cetacea and its eternally young inhabitants.
Feather Chelle is a mother of five and the award-winning author of multiple books for children.
LITERARY TITAN 