Toucania

Hidden by a thick fog, there is a magical island that can only be found once every fifty years when the fog lifts. The island is inhabited by amazing creatures such as playful biphons, friendly zebradaries, and dangerous panboars. Amelia grew up with stories of these creatures and the beautiful sights of the island as told by her grandfather, the famous explorer Dr. Alfonso. While on one of his regular expeditions, Dr. Alfonso’s ship, El Brontosaurio, got caught in a storm, sending the crew off course. When the storm passed and the fog cleared, Dr. Alfonso came upon the island which he called Toucania for the wondrous bird-like creatures he saw in the most beautiful spot on the island.

Fifty years later, Amelia sets off to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps to find the island herself. Prepared with her notebook filled with her grandfather’s stories and descriptions, she travels on the same boat as her grandfather and sets off on her adventure. Upon her arrival at Toucania, Amelia is greeted by a herd of belicorns and merbears. As she travels across the island, she meets many other wondrous animals, crosses a forest of crystal rocks, gets caught in a rainstorm and, with the help of some chimpanthers, finally makes it to her grandfather’s favourite spot. When night comes and the fog begins to hide the island once more, Amelia travels back home and dreams of returning to Toucania in another fifty years.

Ferrer’s beautiful descriptions of creatures are fun and magical. Readers of all ages will enjoy trying to guess the different animal combinations. Amelia is portrayed as a strong female character who is independent and loves adventure. There is also a sense of family and the belief in following your dreams. The watercolor illustrations by Ferrer are stunning and give her creatures life. Ferrer's depictions of Amelia’s adventure seem to flow across the pages, bringing readers along on Amelia’s time on the island. Overall, Toucania is a perfect bedtime story for all little adventurers.