Yoshi's Big Swim - by Mary Wagley Copp (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Yoshi's Big Swim chronicles the impressive true story of Yoshi, a loggerhead turtle who was rescued by fishermen, then rehabilitated and cared for by scientists for many years. The scientists adored her, and Yoshi was happy in her aquarium home. But then, many years later, Yoshi let them know that it was time for her to move on. Would Yoshi be safe? Would she know what to do? After lots of preparation-and plenty of friendly back scratches for Yoshi-the determined loggerhead set off on her journey. Discover an amazing story celebrating teamwork, science, and an animal hero who swam more than 22,000 miles to her true home-the longest journey of any animal ever tracked. In addition to being awe-inspiring, Yoshi's story underlines the importance of wildlife conservation and the power of one animal to unite people around the world for a common cause"--

Book Synopsis

Yoshi's Big Swim chronicles the impressive true story of Yoshi, a loggerhead turtle who was rescued by fishermen, then rehabilitated and cared for by scientists for many years. The scientists adored her, and Yoshi was happy in her aquarium home. But then, many years later, Yoshi let them know that it was time for her to move on. Would Yoshi be safe? Would she know what to do? After lots of preparation--and plenty of friendly back scratches for Yoshi--the determined loggerhead set off on her journey. Discover an amazing story celebrating teamwork, science, and an animal hero who swam more than 22,000 miles to her true home--the longest journey of any animal ever tracked. In addition to being awe-inspiring, Yoshi's story underlines the importance of wildlife conservation and the power of one animal to unite people around the world for a common cause.

Review Quotes

Copp and Kajfez's child-friendly take on the famous loggerhead's incredible story focuses mainly on Yoshi's life before her nearly 23,000-mile swim back to her Australian breeding grounds. Colorful, cartoon-style illustrations depict her rescue, her rehabbing at a South African aquarium (becoming "Queen of the Ocean Exhibit" and growing to 400 pounds), and the endurance training there that readied her for a return to the sea ("She trained for a year and a half, swimming between divers who enticed her with sea squirts"). The narrative personifies the tenacious turtle, emphasizing through a refrain ("and she crept into their hearts") Yoshi's impact on her human caretakers and admirers. On the fifth anniversary of her ocean release, this animated account will also endear her to young readers. Human characters are portrayed as racially diverse. Back matter about Yoshi and loggerhead turtles concludes. Ages 8-10. (Jan.)-- "Publisher's Weekly"