The Lost Whale
When his mother decides she needs to seek help, Rio is sent to California to stay with his grandmother who he barely knows. Feeling lost and anxious, he finds focus when he uncovers an old sketchbook of his mother’s, full of drawings of whales, particularly one known as White Beak. When he makes friends with Marina and joins her and her father on their whale watching tours, Rio feels a deep connection with these creatures and a chance encounter with the magnificent White Beak changes everything for him. However, when White Beak goes missing, Rio is convinced this gentle giant is in danger and sets off on a quest to find his whale.
I loved ‘The Last Bear’ and have yet to meet a reader (adult or child!) who hasn’t been completely captivated by that story - and yet in ‘The Lost Whale’, I think Hannah Gold has excelled herself!
Through a compelling story, Hannah Gold raises awareness of the impact of human action on our oceans and the devastating effects this can have on nature. Seen through the eyes of a child, the story is completely relatable and the reader is captivated by the vivid descriptions of these majestic creatures and their habitat. Initially spurred on by wanting to find out more about his mother’s interest, Rio soon discovers much about whales, their migratory habits, the dangers they face and those who are trying to help them. The book would make an excellent class story, but also offers much in terms of curriculum links with science, geography and PSHE. Careful planning would enable children to explore Hannah’s excellent writing whilst maintaining the excitement of the story and inspiring opportunities for drama and role play activities, research and developing writing of their own.
Rio has also been supporting his mother who struggles with her mental health and this thread of the story is handled with deep compassion and sensitivity. Many children find themselves in similar situations and Rio’s confusion and desperation to somehow make his mother better will resonate whilst encouraging first sympathy, and then empathy, from others as they come to understand his situation and feelings. The developing relationship with his grandmother is also beautifully handled as they come to understand one another better.
The story is adorned with Levi Pinfold’s atmospheric and captivating illustrations. The cover is stunning, but remove the dust jacket and there is another treat in store as the orange book is covered with golden images of Rio, White Beak and shoals of fish. As beautiful as it is heartwarming, ‘The Lost Whale’ is one not to miss!
The Lost Whale
Hannah Gold, illustrated by Levi Pinfold
Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008412944