Lua and the Shark Who Talked in Bubbles: Children's Adventure on Sal Island (with workbook)
A captivating tale of friendship, courage, and ocean conservation that empowers young readers to create real change in their communities.
Autor: Mira Maria Belniak (one of our authors!)
Versions: Hardcover, Paperback, Ebook
Print length: 94 pages (35 workbook pages)
Ideal for independent readers ages 6-10, this chapter book masterfully blends magical realism with authentic environmental action, demonstrating that extraordinary change begins with ordinary kids who dare to care.
Book description:
When eight-year-old Lua discovers plastic trash littering her pristine Cape Verde beach, her heart aches for her beautiful island home. Everything changes when she meets Tico, a baby lemon shark who speaks through magical, shimmering bubbles!
Tico’s underwater sanctuary is in grave danger. Plastic debris and abandoned fishing nets are turning Shark Bay into a deadly maze for young sharks, and Tico desperately needs human allies to save his family.
With her wise grandmother’s musical guidance and her best friend Zé’s unwavering support, Lua composes a powerful song about Tico that ignites her entire island community. Soon, everyone — fishermen, shopkeepers, hotel workers, and children — unite in an extraordinary mission to restore their beaches and safeguard the magnificent sea creatures who call these waters home.
But when the mayor invites Lua to headline the festival’s opening ceremony, paralysing stage fright threatens to silence her message. Will she summon the courage to share Tico’s story with hundreds of festival-goers? Can their grassroots movement truly transform Shark Bay into a haven once again?
Why Parents & Educators Love This Book
✨ Rich Cultural Authenticity – Immersive Cape Verdean setting with traditional music, family customs, and accessible Portuguese phrases;
✨ Science-Based Learning – Accurate marine biology facts about lemon shark nurseries, sea turtle migration, and ocean ecosystem protection;
✨ Empowering Representation – Confident female protagonist of colour, multigenerational wisdom, and inclusive community collaboration;
✨ Musical Integration – Original songs celebrating Cape Verdean morna and coladeira traditions that bring culture to life;
✨ Real-World Solutions – Practical environmental actions kids can implement immediately in their neighbourhoods;
✨ Series Foundation – Launches the anticipated “Children of the Atlantic Islands” collection.
Perfect For Families Who Want:
🌊 Meaningful Stories that tackle real issues with hope and optimism;
🎵 Cultural Exploration through music, language, and island traditions;
🦈 Ocean Adventures featuring fascinating marine life and conservation;
👥 Community Values emphasising cooperation and collective action;
💪 Empowered Kids who believe their voices matter and can create change;
🌍 Global Perspective with authentic international settings and characters.
Educational Applications:
- Marine Science: Shark biology, ocean habitats, pollution impact;
- Cultural Studies: Cape Verdean heritage, Portuguese language basics;
- Environmental Science: Conservation strategies, community organising;
- Social Studies: Island geography, fishing communities,and cultural music;
- Character Education: Courage, persistence, environmental stewardship;
- Creative Arts: Songwriting, performance, traditional music appreciation.
