The Ocean Gardener By Clara Anganuzzi Illustrated by Clara Anganuzzi

Ayla notices that the once-vibrant corals in the reef near her beautiful island home have turned pale. She and her mom decide that they need to save the corals–but is it too late?

Ayla lives on a beautiful tropical island surrounded by a coral reef. Her mom is a marine biologist, and every day, the two go exploring together. One day, Ayla notices that many of the fish have disappeared, and the once-vibrant corals have turned pale. She and her mom set out to save the corals–but is it too late? Includes back matter about reef restoration and the real person who inspired the story.

A girl and her marine biologist mother save a coral reef.
Ayla lives on an island surrounded by “a vast turquoise ribbon—a coral reef.” Not only does Ayla love swimming through the vibrant underwater habitat, but she also appreciates its importance to the surrounding environment.