.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Amidst Maui’s white-sand beaches and sparkling blue waters, Mako’s life changes forever in one electrifying instant when she finds herself inches from a profoundly inquisitive young humpback, Koholā. The two lock eyes, forming a bond that launches them on a unique journey of wonder and discovery.
With a special glossary of Hawaiian terms and fascinating insights into Hawaiian history, marine life, and classic literature, this coming-of-age tale is both an adventure and an educational treasure. Mako’s and Koholā’s interwoven stories take us into a whole new undersea world, bridging a gap that may not be as wide as we thought.
"Buoyant, engaging, and magical, with characters that linger."
—Kirkus Reviews
"I was enthralled by this story of the friendship between a young girl and a young whale. Though this is fiction, the tale speaks a truth that many of us intuitively know: that connections between even very disparate species are both deeper and more complex than many scientists and philosophers are willing to admit. The characters are unforgettable, and their story revealing and meaningful."
—Sy Montgomery, naturalist and award-winning author of The Soul of an Octopus, How to Be a Good Creature, and many other books for adults and children
"A gentle, yet forceful book that pulls you forward like the wake of a humpback whale. Spandel creates rich characters with authentic voices that put the reader in touch with what’s truly important in life while celebrating the astonishing beauty and richness of our planet. Surprising plot twists, meaningful relationships, and a quiet sense of optimism make World of Water, World of Light a wonderful place to spend some time—something we and young readers need now more than ever."
—Sneed B. Collard III, author of Dog 4491 and Orbis Pictus Winner, Border Crossings
"In World of Water A World of Light, master storyteller Vicki Spandel seamlessly weaves fiction and nonfiction into the remarkable story of Mako, an adolescent searching for answers; Kimo, her great-uncle and dispenser of wisdom; and Koholā, a young humpback whale fighting to stay alive while learning to communicate with humans.
The author’s remarkable use of language keeps the story lively and engaging, while effective use of Hawaiian vocabulary creates authenticity. Karen Duplisea’s charcoal illustrations are brilliant, crafting clear images that add depth. If you read only one book this summer, make it this one."
—Fred Wolff, author of The Write Direction and script writer for Telling Their Stories: NH Holocaust Survivors Speak Out