The Ocean Gardener 

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


STARRED. K-Gr 3–In the middle of the vast ocean, a tiny island is surrounded by colorful coral and fish in a beautiful landscape hidden beneath the waves. Ayla loves exploring the reef with her mother, who happens to be a marine biologist. When the reef begins to change and the fish all leave to find a new place to live, Ayla and her mother step in as ocean gardeners. Together, they patiently reconstruct the reef in an effort to invite the fish to return home once again. Though fiction, this is an accessible introduction to some of the very real conservation efforts taking place in coral reefs all over the world. Inspired by the author’s own experience, this tale discusses many of the changes scientists have observed as a result of climate change. Poetic, heartfelt text explains Ayla’s actions in a way young readers can understand, and while most of the words appear in a traditional style, they are sometimes found incorporated into the illustrations, as well. Beautiful images immediately draw readers into the story, depicting island life from a variety of angles and distances while using color and detail to bring Ayla’s world to life. At the end, information can be found about the science behind the story as well as resources for further learning and investigation. VERDICT This is a charming introduction to marine conservation and the effects of climate change, and it is an excellent addition to library STEM collections for young readers. --School Library Journal, Starred Review