This is a companion book to Mary Alice Monroe’s novel, Swimming Lessons, the third book in the nationally bestselling The Beach House series. In the novel, the readers witness a young mother, Toy, writing a journal for her daughter, Little Lovie. This children’s book is the journal Toy is writing.

Using original photographs, this scrapbook journal explains the nesting cycle of sea turtles and the natural life along the Southeastern coast, including local shore birds, shells, and the sea turtle hospital. Adults and children will enjoy the images, information and the journal with or without the novel. The “For Creative Minds” educational section includes turtle nesting facts, a shell identification activity, and a make-your-own nature journal.

“The story’s presentation (with the interaction between a mother and daughter as they share the turtle encounter) will draw readers into the experience, encourage turtle habitat preservation, and increase awareness of the plight of the sea turtle.”
—NSTA Recommends

“Snapshots, calendars, seashells, flowers, and illustrations frame the poignant text in this telling of the tale of the loggerhead sea turtle. The author weaves text as though wielding a paint brush to canvas. This book has an endearing quality that will make it a favorite with children and adults.”
—Children’s Literature Comprehensive Database

“This is a splendid mixture of photos, drawing, and text. Children, ages 4-9 will relate to this book and its activities, hopefully clamoring to create a similar journal with their siblings and parents.”
—Midwest Book Review