THE SEARCH FOR CARMELLA (Hidden Wonders), by Chloe Savage, Candlewick, Feb. 4, 2025, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)
A marine biologist and her crew set out to find a mysterious beast in The Search for Carmella, by Chloe Savage.
Ever since Dr. Rose was a little girl playing in rock pools, she has always loved exploring the sea and the weird and wonderful creatures living there. Now, as a marine biologist, Dr. Rose is in search of a sea creature rumored to reside within the ocean’s hidden depths, a mysterious beast that many speak of but no one has ever seen: Carmella. With her team of scientists and explorers, descending in a submersible to the unfathomable dark of the deep ocean, what incredible creatures will Dr. Rose discover inhabiting a nearly pitch-black world? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick
You may remember The Search for Carmella creator Chloe Savage from The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish, another book of ocean exploration. This time around, Savage visits a mysterious deep, dark world, and what Dr. Rose discovers will knock your socks off.
The Search for Carmella is a tale of two books —the bright, blue world of above and the blue-black of below. The “above” illustrations are charming and whimsical. The “below” are stunning. Savage’s use of light and color — particularly red, yellow and shades of blue — are spectacular, introducing readers to sea life that can only be found in deep water. Savage’s story features the love of science through the lens of determination and humor. Kids an parents alike will love this magical tale.
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