Satchen and Tulsi love hanging out together in their small Scottish fishing town. Sneaking out one night to climb the ancient volcanic hill called the Craig, they
celebrate their last days of Primary School. Looking out over the dark bay under a night full of stars, they ponder the giant whale jawbone replica they stand beneath. Both avid whale lovers, they have raised hundreds of pounds towards saving them, but know they have to do even more. Maybe being in high school will help?
Satchen has even bigger worries, closer to home. His baby sister has been sick since she was born, and watching and worrying about her getting strong and well never leaves his mind. All they can do is wait. On the way home Tulsi sees something strange on the water, but it’s too dark to see. She puts it out of her mind and hurries home, before her mum knows she’s gone.
The next day the friends plan to row out to a nearby favourite island. They have done it many times before, but Tulsi’s parents are worried. With quick reassurance, Tulsi races out the door to meet Satchen. Sharing the rowing, they are nearly at the island when they hear a strange noise. Could it be coming from the many nesting birds on the island?
Determined to work out the mystery, they begin to search. To their horror they discover a humpback whale – stranded in the waves out from the beach.
Desperate to help the whale, but suffering from the cold water, now it’s not only the whale that’s in trouble.
Another great tale from the Dyslexia experts at Barrington Stoke. Calling the Whales begins with friends celebrating finishing Primary School, who quickly become victims of a rescue mission for a whale. This makes for gripping reading woven with environmental themes about looking after the ocean, which in turn can then look after us.
There is a non-fiction section at the rear of the book about Humpback Whales, and also practical, easy ways young people can help the environment. Illustrations are peppered throughout the text, portraying the action and emotions of the characters as they plan to help another creature, but then find themselves in trouble too.
The extra thread of a sick baby sister adds another layer to these children who are growing up, thinking about the world around them and doing the best they can to help.
The setting of this novel (perfect for Dyslexic or reluctant readers) is based on a real seaside town on the East coast of Scotland.
A kind, courageous and environmentally friendly tale. I love the cover too!
Author – Jasbinder Bilan
Illustrator – Skylar White
Dyslexic Read – Interest Age 8-12 years / Reading Age 8
(2023, Barrington Stoke, Dyslexic, Dyslexia, Reluctant Readers, Quick Reads, Whales, Ocean, Sea life, Environment, Holiday, Island, Adventure, Action, Sea Swimming, Rescue, Courage, Storm, Sea Pollution)