About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
★ “Walters has woven a touching story about the connection humans have with other living beings on Earth. Recommended for wide purchase.”—School Library Journal, starred review
Dylan lives on a remote island in the Pacific Northwest with his parents, but when they have to go to the mainland, his grandfather weathers a storm to come spend time with him. Grandpa’s brought Dylan a number of gifts, and one comes in handy the next day while they are exploring the coast. In fact, this gift leads the duo to a dangerous discovery: a young orca got stuck on the rocks during the storm. Racing against the sun and the heat, Dylan and Grandpa need to work together to figure out how to save the calf while his pod circles nearby.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 6 to 8
- Grade:
- 1 to 3
- Reading age:
- 6 to 8
Awards
- , Washington Library Association OTTER Award
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
Editorial Reviews
“The story highlights grandparents (and other adults) as support systems, sounding boards, and sources of advice, but sets the stage for children as heroes of their own tales. Children can experience vicarious empowerment and hopefully translate that fearlessness and determination into their own lives. Highly Recommended.”
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“[A] page-turner…great for literature circles, guided reading groups, or whole class novel study.”
— Canadian Teacher Magazine
★ “Walters has woven a touching story about the connection humans have with other living beings on Earth. Recommended for wide purchase.”
— School Library Journal, starred review
“A delightful early chapter book... Carefully yet simply crafted with just the right amount of detail, this tale will engage early nature and adventure readers who are yearning for chapter books.”
— School Library Connection
“Scientific information is seamlessly woven in. Accessible for transitioning readers and graced with the occasional grayscale illustration, the book offers fast-paced action and tension surrounding the whale's fate—both will keep readers invested.”
— Kirkus Reviews
“A beautifully written story that gives the reader a true feeling of life on a remote island.”
— Must Read Lit: K thru YA
