Publishers Weekly
04/29/2024
Two sea creatures seek to consult an Aztec deity about the ocean’s darkness in this teamwork tale from Márquez (Mother of Sharks) and Arreola Mendoza (Paula’s Patches). When the ocean inexplicably dims one day, Maren the whale shark and remora Remy head to visit Huixtocihuatl, who “rules the sea and probably knows what is going on.” Encountering frightened marine friends along the way, Maren, whose shiny spots make her the brightest thing going, shares her shiny scales with first Remy, and then a variety of other creatures seeking light. Finally, having given away all her scales, Maren and Remy find themselves unable to navigate their way to the goddess, until communal generosity brings answers to the creatures’ questions—and delivers a sparkling change of fate. An azure palette mimics different sea depths alongside the creatures’ friendly expressions throughout this epic work with The Rainbow Fish vibes. Back matter offers more about Aztec deities and the animals featured. Huixtocihuatl is portrayed with goldenrod skin. Ages 5–8. (May)
From the Publisher
"Touching upon the importance of sharing and kindness, this lovely picture book also introduces a beautiful ocean world and Aztec mythology to young readers." —School Library Journal, starred review
"This gentle aquatic fable reminds us that friendship and selflessness can be powerful beacons against fear and hopelessness, even in times of darkness. A visually appealing tale with a sound message sure to resonate with readers." —Kirkus Reviews
School Library Journal
★ 07/01/2024
K-Gr 3—Maren the whale shark and her best friend, Remy the remora, love spending time side-by-side in their vast and beautiful ocean home. But when the ocean grows dark, Maren and Remy wonder what could be happening. Remy suggests visiting Huixtocihuatl, the Aztec goddess of salt and salt water, to find out why. As Maren and Remy set off, the only light they have comes from Maren's illuminating scales. Maren gives one of her shiny scales to Remy, and along the way, more and more ocean creatures request scales to light their way. As the journey progresses, it grows darker because Maren has given away all her glow. However, the creatures she helped along the way return in gratitude for her kindness, guiding them to their destination where something special awaits. Breathtaking illustrations limn the beauty of the ocean teeming with unique life, expressing lively emotions on the faces of the characters. The soothing text expresses the vibrance of this underwater world, while also conveying Maren's selflessness. Additional information on Huixtocihuatl, Huitzilopochtli, and several of the underwater creatures featured is included. VERDICT Touching upon the importance of sharing and kindness, this lovely picture book also introduces a beautiful ocean world and Aztec mythology to young readers.—Selenia Paz
Kirkus Reviews
2024-03-23
When the ocean is suddenly plunged into darkness, a whale shark embarks on a quest to put things right.
Maren loves living in the deep blue sea and traveling the world with her best friend, Remy the remora. Fear and confusion grip Maren and the other ocean creatures when they find themselves lost in their home after the light in the ocean goes out. Remy suggests that they seek help from Huixtocihuatl, the Aztec goddess of salt and salt water. They set out, Maren lighting the way with her soft, glowing scales. On the way, the pair encounter a scared fish, and Maren gives him a scale to use as a light source. Maren has a good heart and a generous spirit, and she gives most of her scales away to other frightened fish along the way. She and Remy end up in the dark again before reaching the goddess. Maren is ultimately repaid for her good deeds by her friends and is rewarded for her altruism by Huixtocihuatl herself. Bright-white highlights stand out against shades of deep blue, which make the illustrations sparkle and shine as readers follow Maren’s journey across the ocean. The adorably anthropomorphized sharks, anglerfish, and other creatures cut endearing figures. This gentle aquatic fable reminds us that friendship and selflessness can be powerful beacons against fear and hopelessness, even in times of darkness.
A visually appealing tale with a sound message sure to resonate with readers. (information on Huixtocihuatl and the animals featured in the book) (Picture book. 4-8)
