Eugene likes school the ‘island’ way. He can swim at their beach instead of a crowded pool, doesn’t have to line up for school assembly, and has a snack whenever he likes. One of the things he does miss, is getting ideas from his teachers and friends. He has a project due and he can’t think of a thing.

It is an art project and despite what his mum says, he doesn’t feel creative at all. What can you make with two empty milk bottles?

A walk down to the beach finds his younger brother Miles, a seagull and a shoe. But wait! There are more shoes. And more. And more! They are identical to each other only it different sizes. Big and small, where are they coming from? Eugene knows this is serious as the seagull tries to eat one. They must tell Dad!

After a phone call they know there are going to be a LOT more shoes washing up on their beach. A container load fell off a ship and shoes are washing up in other places too. By the time Eugene has helped get them all out of the ocean, his art project is nearly due.

Hmmm… Yes! He’s decided exactly what to do, and it just might include a shoe or two.

This episode of Eugene’s island cleverly blends an environmental hazard with a school art project that is due. The reader learns about sea freight and how it can cause harm to ocean animals and birds if it goes overboard in an accident.

Eugene also shows young readers about reusing and recycling items instead of putting them in the rubbish. After all, he scores not only new pairs of shoes but a touch of fame as well.

The more we get to know Eugene, the more adventures we want to take with him. What will happen on his island next?

A great series for early readers stretching their wings.

Author – Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod

Illustrator – Anna McKessar

Age – 6+

Learn more about The Art Project here

Watch the TVNZ program Endangered Species here

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