The Search for Carmella

The Search for Carmella is an exquisite picture book that takes us deep into the ocean on a search for the mythical Carmella. However, we also learn that marine biologist Dr Rose is so committed to the search that she fails to notice all the other beauty around her, until fellow scientist Rose helps her to see them.

There is so much to explore on each page, which shine like jewels with all the glowing colours and underwater landscapes. The children I shared the book with were entranced by the characters' journey but also by the details in the pages - the cross sections of the ships, the exquisite creatures they come across in the ocean; this journey helped to spark the children's curiosity about sea life and travelling to new places.

As well as a beautiful story to explore, The Search for Carmella is a wonderful introduction to mindfulness and enjoying the moment. The story inspired lots of discussions about what we enjoy in the world around us - just like the scientist Anne does - and we focused on the things that they had seen and enjoyed on their journey into school that morning. As such, The Search for Carmella is a gentle and helpful reminder of what we enjoy in our everyday lives, which can be used across all ages for assemblies, classes and at home as an introduction to mindfulness and wellbeing.

It's also a lovely book to reach for if you are studying journeys, travel and the ocean with your class, and will make a gentle and inspiring bedtime read at home, too.  If you enjoy this, do look out for Chloe Savage's earlier book, The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish, which is every bit as gorgeous as this one!

Picture book / Reviewed by Elen Green

Suggested Reading Age 5+