Gracie Under the Waves

An empowering story from #1 New York Times bestseller and Newbery medalist Linda Sue Park starring a young snorkeling enthusiast who draws inspiration for fighting climate change from interacting with her pesty little brother.

A Green Earth Book Award Honor Book

Inspired by her own experience, beloved author Linda Sue Park tells the story of a girl learning how to impact a cause she cares about while navigating the ups and downs of a sibling relationship and turning disappointment into opportunity.  

Gracie loves snorkeling! She loves it so much, she convinces her parents to let her plan a family vacation to Roatán, Honduras, where they can all snorkel together. She even makes a new friend there. Now, if only her irritating little brother would leave her alone, everything would be perfect. Then Gracie hurts her leg, and all her carefully made plans start to come apart. Worse still, she learns the reef itself is in serious danger. Gracie wants to help the reef . . . but she’s just a kid. What can she do to make a difference? Fortunately, her new friend has a few ideas! 

“Vividly describes the thrill of being surrounded by amazing marine creatures.” - Booklist

“Newbery medalist Park combines a relatable heroine with accessibly written information about how climate change threatens the ocean.” - Washington Post

“Using high-energy prose and high-stakes plotting, Park delivers a splashy tale ferried by an undercurrent of compromise, climate activism, and earnest love for the natural world.” - Publishers Weekly

“Park writes the irritations and messiness of siblinghood beautifully, and Gracie’s willingness to humbly learn how to expand her zeal for snorkeling into action is a breath of fresh sea air.”

- Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“The book’s climax delivers, with genuine but age-appropriate danger and heroism.” - Horn Book Magazine

“A must-purchase tale of conservation and coming of age for children and adults.” - School Library Journal