Tortuga

by Paul Geraghty

Visually stunning, this book tells both an absorbing story of Tortuga and a gentle lesson in how wildlife species become established in new territories.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2000

Reviews

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tortuga has a special place in my family's hearts, because it was one of our first-born daughter's 3 favorite books before she learned to read the alphabet. I daresay it left a lasting impression on her, because along with a non-fiction DK book about reptiles (one of her other 3 favorite books at that time), it seems to have left an indelible love of animals and particularly all things scaly in her heart. From that time at around 2 to now 8 years of age, she's consistently said she wants to become a zoologist specializing in reptiles. I think that is in no small part due to Tortuga. The text was so well written, and the artwork so beautiful and engaging, that she was somehow driven to memorize the entire text at 2, by virtue of having heard it read to her every night for months. It reached the point where we needed only to read the first word on a page, and she could recite the rest of text. Obviously, I was proud of her enjoyment of being read to and her impressive feat of memory, but I think that really just stands as a testament to how well crafted this book is. There is even a plot and tribulations, helping readers relate to Tortuga, even though this is not a 'talking animal'-style kids' book. It can be enjoyed by all ages and, in my opinion, should be read to any young animal lover whom you may hope to inspire.

[Grace Gayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of a tortise finding a home. A journey with highs and lows...and beautiful illustrations.

[Sula · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Visually memorable with an engaging narrative. Text could flow a tiny bit better, but its a very minor issue.

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tortuga is a tortoise blown onto an isolated island during a bad storm. She soon realises she is alone, her eggs are eaten by the birds of the island, and she goes off in search of tortoise company on the island. Nice illustrations.