The Speaking Seashell - Hardcover

by Olivia Keller (Author), Blueberry Illustrations (Illustrator)

A magical seashell that would give him his best friend? Jordan couldn't believe it... until it happened. As a young boy who has trouble making friends, Jordan finds a seashell and discovers he can talk with his very first friend by speaking into the shell. This new friend is Mabel, an 80 year-old woman of a different culture than Jordan. They instantly become friends and develop a deep bond, sharing stories and playing games together. But as Jordan gets older and finds new friends, he becomes distant with Mabel. Years later, Jordan finally realizes the profound impact Mabel had on him, but is no longer able to reach her from the seashell. Jordan eventually finds a way to continue the legacy of the speaking seashell, capturing the special moments of intergenerational bonds.

Author Statement: There is really something special about the bond between youth and elderly - I have learned this partly through my years of work at a nursing home. Seeing the face of a resident, especially on one of their tougher days, light up in the presence of a child is something indescribably heartwarming. Likewise, I have seen residents in memory care have the ability to recall specific things from their past to pass on to their grandchildren. I genuinely think both our young and older generations can impact each other in ways much greater than we currently appreciate. The prominence of these intergenerational bonds is the overarching message I want to get across with this story. I truly hope this book can encourage kids to get to know their grandparents and elders a bit more and make this important connection early on in their lives!