Isabel of the Whales

For someone who knows very little about all the different species of whales and their habitat, this book is a "must read". With time to relax and read, I highly recommend Isabel of the Whales for a great and intriguing summer read. Once you begin the book, it is hard to put down. Isabel is a girl that many young teen girls will look up to and admire. As an older reader, I found this book interesting, exciting, sad and joyful. Hester Velmanns has done an outstanding job in educating the public about a population of whales that many know very little about.

With Isabel, imagine swooping through the ocean with large, friendly whales! Imagine having them understand you (as even your best human friends don't, quite). As she practices living as a whale, Isabel also learns some important human skills as well. This wonderfully playful book rings true in its treatment of a young girl's relationships with friends and teachers and family members, her awakening interest in boys (even if they are boy-whales), and her growth in compassion and awareness.

I wanted to let the author know how much I enjoyed the book! The story was both creative and interesting. I really liked Isabel, both as a girl and as a whale. The book was very well written in that immediately I could relate to Isabel, her family, and friends, etc. almost as if I had known them for a while or, on the other hand, that I could picture myself (as a kid) in the book. I found living with the whales to be very interesting too. I have to say I learned a lot about whales that I never knew before. Another terrific aspect of the book is that it was fun to read while also being a learning adventure. The author did a great job of intertwining her research into the story. I think it was an excellent book for kids and grown-ups alike.

"Fantasy and reality merge in this aquatic coming-of-age adventure with a compelling ecological message. When her 5th-grade class goes on a whale watch, 11-year-old Isabel falls overboard as a congregation of whales surrounds the boat. Instead of drowning, Isabel finds herself very much alive as she morphs into a whale. Adopted by a pod of humpbacks, Isabel discovers she is their 'Chosen One' who 'will stay long enough to learn, and to fulfill her task.' Initially, Isabel misses her human family, but gradually the ocean becomes home. The whales teach her underwater survival as they migrate from North Pole to equator. In return, Isabel engineers some lifesaving tricks of her own. But after a year, Isabel must make a wrenching choice between land and sea. To Velmans's credit, the improbable seems probable through the eyes and voice of her down-to-earth heroine. Watch out Little Mermaid, here comes Isabel." (Delacorte/Random House Children's Books) Kirkus

This was such a great book. The writing was fabulous, I really believed that this young girl was transformed into a whale. It's rare that i find an original story but this was definietly fresh and exciting. great for any girl between the ages of 10 and 12. A must have for anyone who loves whales!