Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Hello Ocean
Illustrator: Mark Astrella
Picture Book
For ages 4 to 6
Charlesbridge, 2001 ISBN: 978-0881069884
A girl and her family have arrived at the beach and there are so many special yet familiar things to experience. The girl sees all sorts of wonders; she smells the fish in the fisherman's bucket; she hears the sounds of the waves and boats; she tastes the saltiness of the water, and touches the grittiness of the sand. It is a sensory extravaganza which is, though she has experienced it many times before, still a delight and a treasure to enjoy again and again.
This special picture book perfectly captures the smells, sounds, sights, tastes, and feel of those unique things which make a day at the beach so memorable. Spare and yet evocative text and atmospheric acrylic art are perfectly matched to create a wonderful beach experience. Readers may find themselves listening and looking a little harder the next time they go to the beach, trying to find their own special sensory memories.
