Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Family secrets fuel lively tale of trying to fit in.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
As TURTLE IN PARADISE: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL opens, 11-year-old Turtle finds herself sent off to Florida to live with her aunt and cousins. No one seems happy to see her, but she gradually gets to know her family and makes new friends. As she explores the neighborhood, she learns about babysitting, bullying, and pirate gold.
Is It Any Good?
Moving away from home is hard, and this sensitive, heartfelt story captures the magic of meeting new friends and family members. Author Jennifer L. Holm depicts Turtle's quest to fit in in 1930s Florida, sending her on adventures in the water and on land. Illustrator Savana Ganucheau captures the tropical mood of the story. Young readers are likely to enjoy the extremely diverse cast of characters. Turtle is irresistible, and this graphic adaptation is a winner.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Turtle in Paradise depicts life in Florida during the Great Depression. Why were family members separated from one another during those years?
Turtle's grandmother is a difficult person to deal with. Why do some elderly people retreat into silence? What can be done to keep them engaged?
What does it feel like to be an outsider? What are some ways to feel connected to your community?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Savanna Ganucheau
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Adventures , Pirates
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Random House Graphic
- Publication date : May 4, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 10 - 15
- Number of pages : 256
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Newbery Medal and Honors
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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