Orca Rescue!: The True Story of an Orphaned Orca Named Springer
by Donna Sandstrom (Author) Sarah Burwash (Illustrator)
A captivating account of the only successful orca rescue and reunion in history told in first person by Donna Sandstrom, a citizen participant of the rescue.
In 2002, a young orca was spotted alone in Puget Sound near Seattle --- lost, underweight and 300 miles away from her home waters in Canada. Donna Sandstrom, an orca enthusiast in Seattle, eagerly joined the volunteer effort to help. Here she tells the riveting story, from identifying the orca as a missing calf named Springer; through making the decision to try to transport her home; to planning and organizing the trip; to, finally, releasing her near Vancouver Island, where Springer was reunited with her family. It's an incredible story of the only successful orca rescue and reunion ever, and readers will be captivated as the epic rescue unfolds!
Donna Sandstrom's fascinating up-close-and-personal depiction of the rescue mission, with new behind-the-scenes details, uses an innovative mix of narrative storytelling interspersed with spreads of factual information about orcas and the history of their relationship with humans. Sarah Burwash's evocative watercolor illustrations make the perfect accompaniment to the text. Orcas and their survival are a topical issue, and readers will discover what it's like on the front lines of whale rescue, including the collaboration and teamwork that are required. There are numerous curriculum links to life science here, particularly animals and habitats, as well as to social studies in the descriptions of the connections and cooperation between Canada and the United States. The book includes a map showing Springer's trip, tips for how to help whales and dolphins, resources and a glossary.
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School Library Journal
Gr 3-6--Sandstrom weaves fact and story into this page-turning true narrative of Springer, an orphaned orca. The story unfolds through the discovery of the young orca in Puget Sound, the quest to learn her identity, and the discussion about what should be done to help her. Sandstrom shares her first-person experience as one of those involved in Springer's eventual reunification. The role of First Nations and other Native American groups in Springer's journey is also featured. The book alternates narrative and factual material seamlessly, incorporating informational chapters about orcas where they fit in the story. Readers learn where different types of orcas live, what they eat, how their family groups work, and how scientists identify and name them. The history of humans' poor treatment of orcas in captivity is also addressed. The watercolor illustrations portray the animals accurately, with clear markings and details, yet with an endearing softness. The end matter includes photographs of Springer and some of her family members, as well as a family tree (called a matriline), ways readers can help whales and dolphins, as well as a list for further reading. The book is brief, but it has a strong impact. The choice to use illustrations rather than photographs gives it a storybook feel, and its happy ending gives the reader hope that nature can be healed and that we can learn from our mistakes. VERDICT A strong addition to youth collections.--Kelly Jahng, South Park Elem. Sch., IL
Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
Review quotes
"Whale Trail founder Donna Sandstrom has scripted a well-researched, feel-happy story for all ages —- a story for the ages. Her involvement in Springer's rescue makes it personal and resonant. Discover how a charismatic young orca and engaged scientists can inspire brave management decisions and get humans to work together. The wild orca families take care of the rest. Inspiring."—Erich Hoyt, author of Orca: The Whale Called Killer
Sarah Burwash is a visual artist working in a variety of media including watercolor, collage, ceramics, animation, illustration and comics. Her work is both imaginative and rooted in her lived experiences, including cabin building, forest stewarding, motorcycling and crewing on a fishing vessel. Her work has been exhibited in Canada, the United States and Europe. Originally from kEluwi'sst (Rossland), British Columbia, she now lives and works in Unama'ki (Cape Breton Island), Nova Scotia.
JNF003220 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Animals | Animal Welfare
JNF003150 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Animals | Marine Life
JNF003270 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Animals | Endangered
Illustrated works
Springer
