How to Speak Dolphin

Gr 4-7--Lily has little time for friends or activities since her life seems to revolve around her half-brother, Adam, who has autism. Life has not been easy. Her stepfather, Don, doesn't acknowledge that Adam needs to attend a special school, and Lily has yet to get over the grief of losing her mother in a car accident two years ago. When Don, an oncologist, receives a call about assisting with a young dolphin who has cancer, he eagerly agrees to help. Adam has a strong attachment to dolphins, and Don thinks this will be the panacea to cure all his troubles. Adam quickly bonds with the dolphin Nori, but Lily begins to suspect that life in captivity in a marine mammal park is not the best scenario for Nori. Rorby paints a vivid picture of life with a child with autism and the struggles a family can face. VERDICT This book will raise questions about the ethics of marine life attractions and leave readers rooting for Lily, an appealing narrator.--Beth Cuddy, Seward Elementary School, Auburn, NY

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Praise for How To Speak Dolphin

"Perfect for readers looking for a book about animals in captivity or tweens making a difference." — Booklist

"In her newest exploration of animal-human relationships, Rorby's lonely, mature heroine faces tough but realistic situations. Siblings of children on the spectrum will identify with Lily [and] Dolphin lovers will appreciate this look at our complicated relationship with these marine mammals." — Kirkus Reviews

"Rorby paints a vivid picture of life with a child with autism and the struggles a family can face. This book will raise questions about the ethics of marine life attractions and leave readers rooting for Lily, an appealing narrator." — School Library Journal


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Schneider Family Book Award Winner

"This unusual and emotional story will intrigue animal lovers and those looking for a gripping family drama. The characters are well crafted... The novel is beautifully written and believable." — Voices of Youth Advocates

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"[An] authentic survival adventure... It's the identity questions as much as the taut rescue story that will resonate with readers." — Booklist


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*"Readers will dive right into this affecting first novel... Believable characters, convincingly portrayed relationships, a deeply moving plot and a wealth of intimate details... combine to make this debut a real winner." — Publishers Weekly, starred review

"[A] distinctive voice and well-developed characterization, a beautifully-evoked setting, and an emotionally satisfying conclusion." — Kirkus Reviews

"The characters are sensitively drawn....the issue of animal rights is provocatively and emotionally discussed." — School Library Journal