Scan barcode
keeliegrasley's review against another edition
4.0
A beautiful book about the hanyeo or granny mermaids! Incredible to learn about these women and the tradition they keep alive. Important to read a book that features the success of women over the age of 50. Well researched, with lovely illustrations
allisoncrutch's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
5.0
jmitschke's review against another edition
4.0
A story about female strength, overcoming fear, and celebrating your heritage. I had never heard of the Haenyeo divers before and found appendix info just as interesting as the story.
hereisenough's review against another edition
4.0
Dayeon wants to be a "treasure hunting mermaid" diver- a haenyeo- just like her Grandma. In this book the reader doesn't just learn about haenyeos, a group of elderly women who dive for food- but also about other details of South Korean culture, such as breakfast food. The really beautiful part of this book to me is that a grandmother is a powerful diver- it is really lovely for me to see an older woman in a place of power, athleticism, beauty, and skill. Also, the illustrations are just divine, warm and bright. The story is more about the experience of diving with a haenyeo, whereas the backmatter is where anyone interested will actually learn more.
adriagoetz's review against another edition
5.0
This is a unique and magical story centered around a lesser known culture/tradition PLUS there are mermaid vibes. Lovely lyrical writing and vibrant, unique illustrations!
maxcfb's review against another edition
5.0
I had never known about the haenyeo tradition in South Korea until hearing about this book, and after reading it, I am in awe of these women’s bravery, their connection to one another, and the way they diligently serve their communities while making a living.
But beyond the tradition itself, this is also a story of the love between a girl, Dayeon, and her grandma, as well as a story of overcoming fear and following in the footsteps of those who come before you. . . . this story is a really lovely example of a child being brave that young readers will connect with!
I appreciated that the story itself is not an explanation of the haenyeo tradition, since the characters themselves would likely not tell the story that way. Still, two pages of informative back matter explain this tradition’s connections to history and present day in more detail.
And Jess X. Snow’s illustrations are truly gorgeous, with dynamic viewpoints that capture the movement, tension, and freedom of the divers, as well as rich medleys of color that bring the ocean to life.
What’s my verdict? A beautifully illustrated depiction of an amazing tradition—and it’s relatable for young readers too!
– Click here to see the full review on my blog!
But beyond the tradition itself, this is also a story of the love between a girl, Dayeon, and her grandma, as well as a story of overcoming fear and following in the footsteps of those who come before you. . . . this story is a really lovely example of a child being brave that young readers will connect with!
I appreciated that the story itself is not an explanation of the haenyeo tradition, since the characters themselves would likely not tell the story that way. Still, two pages of informative back matter explain this tradition’s connections to history and present day in more detail.
And Jess X. Snow’s illustrations are truly gorgeous, with dynamic viewpoints that capture the movement, tension, and freedom of the divers, as well as rich medleys of color that bring the ocean to life.
What’s my verdict? A beautifully illustrated depiction of an amazing tradition—and it’s relatable for young readers too!
– Click here to see the full review on my blog!
zoes_human's review against another edition
adventurous
4.0
On Jeju Island in South Korea, there are women who call themselves jamnyeo, also known as haenyeo or by some as Korea's granny mermaids. These women have a diving tradition that goes back to the 17th century. Women aged up to their eighties dive down to 20 meters or more, using their skill and knowledge to collect the "treasures of the sea" in sustainable agricultural practices. The Ocean Calls is the story of one girl who longs to join her grandma but must first overcome her own fears.
Educational, encouraging, and interesting, this story is accompanied by boldly colorful and beautiful art. It is perfect for themes of grandparents, agriculture, being brave, and the ocean. Suitable for ages 5 to 8.
Educational, encouraging, and interesting, this story is accompanied by boldly colorful and beautiful art. It is perfect for themes of grandparents, agriculture, being brave, and the ocean. Suitable for ages 5 to 8.