High and Dry - (Orca Echoes) by Eric Walters (Paperback)

About the Book

In this illustrated early chapter book, a young boy and his grandfather work together to save a beached orca.

Book Synopsis

★ "Walters has woven a touching story about the connection humans have with other living beings on Earth. Recommended for wide purchase."--School Library Journal, starred review

Dylan lives on a remote island in the Pacific Northwest with his parents, but when they have to go to the mainland, his grandfather weathers a storm to come spend time with him. Grandpa's brought Dylan a number of gifts, and one comes in handy the next day while they are exploring the coast. In fact, this gift leads the duo to a dangerous discovery: a young orca got stuck on the rocks during the storm. Racing against the sun and the heat, Dylan and Grandpa need to work together to figure out how to save the calf while his pod circles nearby.

Review Quotes

"[A] page-turner...great for literature circles, guided reading groups, or whole class novel study."-- "Canadian Teacher Magazine"

"A beautifully written story that gives the reader a true feeling of life on a remote island."-- "Must Read Lit: K thru YA"

★ "Walters has woven a touching story about the connection humans have with other living beings on Earth. Recommended for wide purchase."-- "School Library Journal, starred review"

"A delightful early chapter book... Carefully yet simply crafted with just the right amount of detail, this tale will engage early nature and adventure readers who are yearning for chapter books."-- "School Library Connection"

"Scientific information is seamlessly woven in. Accessible for transitioning readers and graced with the occasional grayscale illustration, the book offers fast-paced action and tension surrounding the whale's fate--both will keep readers invested."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"The story highlights grandparents (and other adults) as support systems, sounding boards, and sources of advice, but sets the stage for children as heroes of their own tales. Children can experience vicarious empowerment and hopefully translate that fearlessness and determination into their own lives. Highly Recommended."-- "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"

About the Author

Eric Walters is a Member of the Order of Canada and the author of over 125 books that have collectively won more than 100 awards including a 2020 Governor General's Literary Award for The King of Jam Sandwiches. A former teacher, Eric began writing as a way to get his fifth-grade students interested in reading and writing. Eric is a tireless presenter, speaking to over one hundred thousand students per year in schools across the country. He lives in Guelph, Ontario.