Books like How To Speak Dolphin by Ginny Rorby
Lily loves her half‑brother Adam, yet the complex dynamics of their blended family weigh on her. Adam’s autism challenges both Lily and step‑father Don, an oncologist who struggles to recognize the child’s needs. Driven by the wish for a healthier life, Lily seeks support for Adam.
When a young dolphin afflicted with cancer, Nori, captures Adam’s heart, Don proposes an unconventional remedy. He brings Lily and Adam to the dolphin’s sanctuary, where they witness a profound bond. However, Lily worries that captivity denies Nori—including her own children—freedom and dignity. Faced with the choice of supporting her brother’s development or championing the dolphin’s liberation, Lily must navigate family loyalty, responsibility, and compassion.
With themes of sibling bonds, autism, step‑family dynamics and animal advocacy, the story explores how one young girl grapples with the responsibilities of care and the desire for her own independence.
First publish date: 2015
Genre: Children's Fiction/Children's Adventure
Authors: Ginny Rorby
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The Hidden Life of Dolphins by Helen ScalesDolphin Confidential: Confessions of the Ocean's Smartest Animal by Caroline Casey
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