Sam has always dreamed about being an orca, while Crystal discovers she hopes to grow up and study orcas as a marine biologist. When the siblings head to the Pacific coast to visit their aunt and uncle, they are in for a treat! Aunt Kate is a marine biologist and has important information to share about the Resident orca pods.

Sam and Crystal learn about the different populations of orcas, why the Southern Resident orcas are critically endangered while the Northern Resident orcas are increasing in numbers. They attend the Save the Salish Sea Festival with an Indigenous woman, and have their own incredible adventure with an orca pod. They come away with a new understanding about the role they play in protecting our animal friends. An entertaining story and beautiful, whimsical, biologically accurate illustrations. Children will learn basic ecology concepts while exploring the Pacific coastline right alongside Sam and Crystal.

Reviews

"In this beautifully illustrated children's book, Gloria has weaved 60 years of history into a compelling story to inspire the next generation to save the Southern Resident orcas from extinction." - Dr. Deborah Giles, orca researcher, Friday Harbour, WA

"A colourful and culturally connected treasure for us all to enjoy! Gilakas'la, thank you Gloria, you continue to champion lifelong commitments to marine education, community connections, and the respect and reverence we should all carry for our whale relatives, ma'amx'linus (killer whales)." - Musgamdzi, Kaleb Child, Kwakiutl Educator

"Buy, read, share, and tell your friends! Gloria Snively, Canada's finest marine educator and Karen Gillmore (illustrator) have created a charming and informative jewel of a book about our elegant relatives the Orcas! Total joy." - Dr. Budd Hall, University of Victoria, UNESCO Chair in Community-Based Research