Story and information books on sea turtles
Sea turtles are such fascinating creatures, it’s no wonder they have inspired so many engaging books for children both fiction (tales) and non fiction (truths).
Reading turtle tales or truths can spark wonder about the oceans in the minds of children. Because turtles are endangered, their plight can inspire youngsters into becoming ocean heroes.
Here are some recommended books on sea turtles. Unless stated, the books are available on Amazon and links take you there to find out more. Teachers Telling Tales are not affiliates and recommend supporting local, independent book stores where possible.
Learning about Life Cycles, for younger readers
The tale of a baby turtle and his journey down the beach to the sea.
Part of the Nature Storybooks series, this picture book combines story with information to show how one tiny sea turtle grows before she heads back to the beach to become a mother herself.
The classic turtle picture book with over 2 million copies sold! Opening simply in the baby sea turtle’s voice: “I’m coming Mama, I’ll see you soon, I know just how, I’ll follow the moon.” Celebrating the love between mother and child and proceeds from sales support turtle conservation.
From the moment it hatches from its shell through its journey across an ocean filled with wonders and dangers to its return to the beach where it was born to lay its own eggs, a female sea turtle’s life is one of survival.
Non fiction
Did you know turtles spend their entire lives travelling the ocean to find food and a mate? And they have a great sense of direction, returning to lay their eggs on the exact beach where they were born. This level 2 reader is great for independent research and discovery.
With inspiring photographs, children are given a well-rounded understanding of turtles’ anatomy, feeding habits, and behaviour in this information text.
Ocean Heroes
Six of seven species of turtle are endangered. These books help children understand why and provide hope through inspiring action for conservation.
Little Turtle Turns the Tide is the first children’s book by novelist and screenwriter Lauren Davies. Carrying a strong and positive environmental message, the book tells the story of Little Turtle, who finds himself swimming in an ocean of plastic debris. So he sets off on a journey to make a difference, with the help of his friends and the children of the world. Beautifully illustrated by Nico Williams, Little Turtle Turns the Tide will appeal to young children who love the ocean, and inspire them to be heroes.
Children will enjoy this inspiring story. Viv has a new home and a new school by the sea. Follow her as she finds her way in a new place and helps bring together a whole community to save the sea turtles of the South Carolina coast. Acclaimed activist Philippe Cousteau and author Deborah Hopkinson team up to offer a story of the powerful difference young people can make in the world.
Nerin is a sea turtle who loves eating jellyfish. One day, she accidentally eats a plastic bag which puts her in a spot of bother. Luckily, Professor Penny, along with her canine friend, Wilson, is on hand to save the day! Professor Penny Stories are a series of children’s books written by staff and students of the University of Exeter’s College of Life and Environmental Sciences.
Myrtle’s Battle Against Climate Change is based on findings from PhD research. It explains what climate change is, how it affects turtles and what we can do in child-friendly text and pictures.
An empowering read for older readers about how one person can make a real difference. It’s time to save the turtles! Chellie loves the beautiful green turtles on her tropical island home, especially since their scientific name is so close to her own. Every year she would watch them swim in the sea and make their long journeys up the beach to lay their eggs. But one day, Chellie makes a grim and horrible discovery – the rubbish pollution is threatening her beloved turtles, so she is forced to act. Can she save them before it is too late?
Do you have any favourite turtle books not included here? Please add them in the comments.
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