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The Brave Little Whale

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Book Synopsis

“Be brave, little Uki, be brave,” calls Grandpa Yuka. But Uki doesn’t feel brave at all!

Uki is a young Humpback Whale. Every year his beloved grandpa Yuka leads little Uki and the whale pod from tropical seas to the icy waters of the Arctic. But this time is different – this time Cousin Amka will be the leader….

There are dangers ahead for the whales, terrible storms and hungry sharks. And when sharp-toothed Orcas attack, Amka becomes trapped deep down, in an old fishing net.

Can Uki remember the song of peace his grandfather taught him? Can he save the pod and will he now be brave enough to lead the whales to safety?

This exciting story with richly coloured illustrations, is inspired by the real lives of Humpback Whales, and includes fascinating facts about the whales and their amazing journey.

Our Review Panel says...

Uki is a little Humpback whale who lives in his pod which is led by his adored Grandfather Yuka. It is the time of year when the whales make their long journey from the tropical seas to the icy Arctic waters. Usually led by Grandpa Yuka, the whales prepare to leave but Grandpa is too old and decides that he will remain in the warmer seas. Uki is sad to leave his grandpa, especially as he is the one who knows the way and the songs to sing and help them on their journey. As the whales start their journey, they face many different dangers – sharks, storms and a pod of Orcas. Will they make it to their final destination and what part will little Uki play?

The story is one of excitement, adventure and coming of age courage. The story is illustrated beautifully and full of lovely bright colours. As you read through the story, there are little circles full of factual information that backs up what you are reading. This was a really nice touch and could be read aloud for older children but also missed if the audience was younger. At the end of the story, there is a double page map showing migration patterns which links beautifully to the story and the journey that Uki takes. We (myself and my 5-year old) really enjoyed reading the story and discussing about whales afterwards. A fantastic book that brings fiction and non-fiction together.