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“A Brazilian professional surfer recalls challenges overcome in her youth and expresses strong environmental concerns. Depicted in Kaulitzki’s nautical-themed illustrations as a figure of ambiguous age with light brown skin and evocatively flowing hair, Gabeira dives into her story as she dives visually over and under the waves—writing rapturously in third person about how neither asthma nor bullies kept her from catching waves or exploring and delighting in the wonders of the bright “rainforest of the sea.” …In more personal language, she closes with a restatement of that message, with leads to ocean conservation organizations with which she works.”

– Kirkus Reviews

Maya Makes Waves

Written by Maya Gabeira
Illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki
Published by Abrams Books for Young Readers

Maya Makes Waves is a conservation-themed picture book about appreciating and protecting our oceans, by professional big wave surfer and UNESCO Champion of the Ocean and Youth, Maya Gabeira.

There is nowhere Maya feels more happy and at home than in the sea. The water washes her worries away; there are countless wonders to experience and creatures to learn from. The dolphins show her how to be a stronger swimmer, the sea turtles make her feel calm, and the humpback whale inspires her to be mighty. But when Maya starts to notice plastic pollution and coral destruction, she realizes that her ocean home is in danger—and it’s up to her to take action. Professional surfer Maya Gabeira, known for surfing Guinness World Record–breaking big waves, shares a story—inspired by her own life—of finding the courage to speak up for the ocean.

Beautifully illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki, Maya Makes Waves is both a celebration of our big blue world, and a call to protect and restore it.

Primary ISBN: 9781419760013
Publication Date: August 2024
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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