Marlow, Layn. Noah’s Seal. Layn Marlow, Illus. Picture Book. Candlewick, 06/2021. [32]pp. $17.99. 978-1-5362-1851-0. OUTSTANDING. GRADES K-5.
A brown-skinned young boy gently sculpts a seal in the sand, decorating it with shells and seaweed, as he waits for Nana to repair their sailboat. His creation is washed away during a storm, only to return later in the form of a real seal who guides the pair out to sea. Simple and reassuring word choices make the story accessible, while leaving room for interpretation as children draw their own conclusions about Noah’s seal. Illustrations extend the narrative in delightful ways, depicting a shimmery, aqua-green sea, an expansive sandy beach, and seals lolling about on rocks. Pair with Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry (Clarion, 2020) for a picture-perfect day at the beach.
Jenny Andrus, Independent