information from the Whale Trail
Whale Trail founder and local author Donna Sandstrom's book Orca Rescue! The True Story of an Orphaned Orca named Springer was published this month by Kids Can Press.
On Sunday Oct. 17 you can meet Donna at the book launch and signing event at C&P Coffee from 3 to 5pm.
The middle grade nonfiction book tells the riveting story of how a young orca was discovered in Puget Sound - lost, alone and 300 miles away from home. Six months later, the 2-year-old orca was rescued, rehabilitated, and returned to her family on the north end of Vancouver Island.
It's the first and so far only successful orca reunion in history. Almost twenty years later Springer is thriving, tending her two calves. And on the day the book was published, Oceanwise announced that she is expecting again!
The story is told as it happened, from Donna's perspective as a community organizer on the project. Many of the events described in the book happened locally, including Springer's initial discovery by researcher Mark Sears, and a pivotal town meeting at the Hall at Fauntleroy.
The book features watercolor illustrations, and includes maps, matrilines and a glossary. Fact spreads are interspersed with the narrative. The book recently received a starred review in Kirkus Review, and is a selected pick by the Junior Library Guild.
Join Donna and other team members this weekend at C&P Coffee in West Seattle to celebrate the book's publication, and Springer's continued success. Books will be available to purchase on site from Paper Boat Booksellers. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public. Please bring proof of vaccination and wear a mask. The event will be held mostly outside (weather permitting). Dress warmly! We look forward to celebrating with you.
When: Sunday October 17, 3 to 5 PM.
Where: C&P Coffee, 5612 California Ave SW
Cost: Free!
Event Links:
Whale Trail website: https://thewhaletrail.org/connect/events/
Facebook: https://fb.me/e/15WtL0UUc