Chasing at the Surface. Sharon Mentyka

Includes author note with list of whale organizations for kids to learn, follow, and get involved: www.orcanetwork.org, www.whalemuseum.org, www.whaleresearch.com, www.orcasound.net, www.listen.orcasound.net, www.suquamishmuseum.org Opening line and prologue hooks reader immediately with the main conflict but doesn’t ruin the strong storyline with a spoiler then pulls the reader through each chapter with engaging writing Excellent internal and external conflict threads through the story and authentic dialogue Author is a very strong writer with a good understanding of what young readers want in a story: action, dialogue, and conflict Provides vivid descriptions of the unique stranded orca story and the stunning Seattle/Pacific Northwest setting Author is marketing savvy, has a strong online presence through her blog and website, and is connected to groups and organizations that focus on orcas such as the Orca Network Based on a true story