PEARLS IN THE SAND

A poacher turned protector teaches his grandchild about sea turtle preservation.

An Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor recipient, Gutiérrez Hernández draws from her own experiences visiting Oaxacan turtle sanctuaries to craft an intimate portrait of conservation work, seen through the eyes of young Gabriela, who joins Papá Grande on nighttime beach patrols as he watches over transported “nidadas” (sets of eggs laid by turtles). The author doesn’t shy away from the challenges; when beetles destroy a nest, leaving only broken shells, the moment provides authentic emotional weight that distinguishes this tale from more sanitized nature books. Papá Grande’s transformation from turtle hunter to “tortuguero” (turtle enthusiast) reflects the real stories of many Mexican coastal communities that shifted from exploitation to protection. The lovely gouache and colored pencil illustrations capture both the magical nocturnal world of nesting turtles and the methodical work of egg collection and hatchery maintenance. Rich blues and teals dominate the underwater scenes, while warm oranges and pinks highlight moments on the beach. The art particularly shines in depicting the four turtle species that visit Oaxaca’s coast. Extensive backmatter elevates this work beyond a simple story: A comprehensive glossary, detailed life cycle information, a map of conservation sites, an author’s note with photographs, and additional resources make it invaluable for reports or curious readers wanting deeper knowledge.

A satisfying blend of storytelling and science that honors both sea turtles and the people working to save them.