**Recommended ages 5+**

 

Orca Rescue not only does a great job of describing the events that lead to Springer being reunited with her family, but it also contains pages that explain orcas- from their features to their behavior. Though the personal anecdotes at times felt unnecessary, the overall story was enjoyable. This is a good book for any youngsters interested in science, especially marine science, as they do not shy away from technical terms like “fecal matter” (there is a glossary with definitions to help explain) or any of the ways in which nature takes its course. They explain what it means when an orca leaves and doesn’t come back. The authors behind Orca Rescue are also obviously against captivity. It is never directly stated, but there are references to it being an awful practice, and it may be a discussion you need to be prepared to have with readers. I will say my biggest issue with the book is it’s calls to action at the very end. It falls into the same trap of almost every other environmental book out there- of putting individual actions like “use less plastic” and “recycle” ahead of getting involved. There is also almost a jump scare towards the end where one of the illustrations is a bit creepy. What’s meant to be a happy reunion is tainted by the presence of scary clown-looking white faces on a boat. 

 

Discussion Questions: 

• How do you feel about captivity? There are many sides, and it’s okay to feel conflicted or unsure 

• Do orcas seem scary to you? 

• Are you glad people got involved to help Springer? Or should people have left the situation alone? 

• What is something you would like to do to help orcas? 

• Would you ever like to see an orca? 

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