The Sea That Sings to Me

Kara Griffin tells a sweet story about a young, red-headed girl in Prince Edward Island who can hear beautiful music coming from the sea. She asks everyone around her, but they are too busy to hear what she hears. After an Atlantic storm rolls in and takes electrical power out, people in the small community slow down and appreciate the salt air, the blue water and shells, pebbles and sea glass. A young boy hears what she hears: “There are thousands of little waves that each sound beautiful but together they move in harmony.” The girl says that, to hear music coming from the sea, you have to listen with your heart. The story ends with the boy and girl dancing on the iconic red sand found only on Prince Edward Island.

Griffin’s story is heartwarming and gives readers the reminder to slow down and listen. Although we may not hear the sounds of the ocean, there is always beauty to be found in nature.
This story is beautifully accompanied by illustrator Marla Lesage. Lesage’s artwork is whimsical and fun. Her depiction of the red sand of Prince Edward Island is perfection. She paints a picture of the ocean that is serene and breathtaking. Her illustrations of the storm and the purple hue set the tone for the powerful event where electricity was lost. Noise is a theme that is evident when reading this book. However, this theme is brought to life with the detailed work of Lesage. Noise comes from the television, electric mixers, stereos and headphones. Thanks to Lesage’s images, this is clear.

The Sea that Sings to Me is a splendid Canadian read to add to your school or library collection. Readers will enjoy travelling to Prince Edward Island, an island of the country not to be overlooked. It would be a great addition to home libraries as well, especially for readers interested in learning about Canada.