Oona and the Shark [Hardcover]

The big sea’s littlest mischief-maker, Oona, is back in another delightful tale fromNew York Timesbestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner Raissa Figueroa.

Oona loves to share her inventions with her friends. They’re big and bold and LOUD—just like her! But there’s one underwater creature who doesn’t seem to enjoy Oona’s company, or her creations.

Stanley the shark! He doesn’t care for her squeaky unicorn. And he’s far too busy for the Sea Horse Carousel. And oh GOODNESS! Oona’s latest hopping, chopping, and poppinginventions just make him angry.

Oona may not know what Stanley likes, but she does know what hedoesn’t. And maybe that’s a good place to start. Because mermaids never stop trying…not when there’s a friend out there to make. 

Praise forOona: “This title celebrates independence, self-confidence, and bravery to try the new even after defeat as Oona becomes aware of the true treasure in her personal effort.” -School Library Journal (starred review)

Oona is an adorable protagonist, with her dark skin, enormous Afro, and striped, orange tail. With her ups and downs and her fundamental ebullience, she will easily win fans... [T]he messages of persistence and of valuing the work of one’s own creation are strong and effective. A small heroine young readers will be happy to meet.   -Kirkus Reviews

Oona is undeniably adorable, and her pal Otto is similarly charming. The playful humor is, like Oona herself, “sweet . . . and a little bit salty,” bringing together gentleness with just a dash of sass. Disney kids will recognize the book’s many nods to The Little Mermaid and appreciate its attempts to diversify the underwater world. -Bulletin of the Center for