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akelanorine's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
emilyb_chicago's review against another edition
4.0
I most enjoyed the descriptions of deaf culture and how vividly this young deaf girl was described - unhappy with her situation but not with herself. The whale aspects were a fun way to integrate excitement and adventure into the story. This is a great diverse addition to a younger middle grade library.
Quote I liked
“Some people have the kind of confidence that get lets them get away with being clueless.“ ~ chapter 2
Quote I liked
“Some people have the kind of confidence that get lets them get away with being clueless.“ ~ chapter 2
jencunn2024's review against another edition
4.0
This is a delightful middle grade read about a deaf girl named Iris who is trying to find her way at school and in the world. It’s a wonderful coming-of-age story in which Iris learns about a lonely whale whom struggles to communicate with his underwater world. The whale’s story really resonates with her own struggles with communication and loneliness. and she develops this empathic sense of connection to the whale. Using her scientific intuitions and experience restoring old radios, Iris sets out to make life better for the whale.
mommaslonglegs's review against another edition
4.0
This was very cute and wholesome stort but I also feel like I got to learn new things about the deaf community. Lynne Kelly does a great job looking at the differences linguistically between ASL and spoken English. Specifically I had never considered deaf poetry and how different idioms would come accross in sign language.
happylilkt's review against another edition
4.0
4 stars
I read this as it was nominated for battle of the books.
What I liked (besides the gorgeous cover):
- deaf MC, introduces younger readers to deaf culture / communities.
- female MC is a tinkerer - loves fixing radios
- whales!
What I didn't like spoils the plot, so I won't give it away. Overall, I enjoyed this one.
I read this as it was nominated for battle of the books.
What I liked (besides the gorgeous cover):
- deaf MC, introduces younger readers to deaf culture / communities.
- female MC is a tinkerer - loves fixing radios
- whales!
What I didn't like spoils the plot, so I won't give it away. Overall, I enjoyed this one.
libraryofdreaming's review against another edition
3.0
This was cute and I'm interested to see what Deaf reviewers have to say about the representation. I'll admit to being a bit of a Grinch though, I would've liked it more if the whale parts were more realistic...
teawithbree's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
jenmangler's review against another edition
2.0
Kelly's focus on the isolation Iris felt really worked. I wish the surreal elements had been left out of the book. Either lean in to the surreal all the way, or leave them out completely. Throwing them in here and there takes away from the power of the story.