Just heard that Booklist–a publication of the American Library Association has given A Whale of the Wild a starred review! What a terrific way to start the weekend. And in case you are curious, that stunning cover art is the work of Lindsay Moore–author, illustrator, & marine biologist extraordinaire!

A Whale of the Wild.

By Rosanne Parry. Illus. by Lindsay Moore. Sept. 2020. 240p. Greenwillow, $17.99 (9780062995926). Gr. 3–5

Just as she did with A Wolf Called Wander (2019), Parry creates a spellbinding, heart-stopping adventure for middle-grade readers—this time about a pod of orca whales and their plight in today’s Salish Sea. The hungry pod travels toward the mouth of a river awaiting the salmon, but this year, the fish are late. Readers are instantly plunged into the close-knit pod as its members work together and share stories and knowledge with younger generations. Vega, the future “wayfinder” of her pod, and her younger brother, Deneb, must remember all the lessons they can after a powerful earthquake and tsunami separate the young orcas from their pod. Vega and Deneb alternate the tale’s narration, giving first-person accounts of their harrowing journey to find their family and their encounters (some frightening, others encouraging) with other sea creatures and humans. Parry’s thorough research, observation, and creative writing combine to share the marvelous matriarchal familial world of orcas, the negative impacts of ocean and noise pollution, and threats posed by ships and humans. Her descriptive narrative rises in intensity to match each new danger and resolves with a bittersweet yet hopeful finish. Vega’s tenacious spirit and intelligence will turn readers into steadfast companions on her unforgettable journey. Black-andwhite illustrations and informative back matter on orcas and their environment enhance an already excellent book.

— J. B. Petty