What This Book Is About
Rio has always felt a little lost. When his grandmother falls ill, he is sent to spend the summer in California with a marine biologist named Marina. Rio isn't thrilled about the arrangement, but everything changes when he encounters a young grey whale named White Beak who has become separated from her pod during the annual migration. The whale is stranded, alone, and in danger. Rio knows exactly how she feels.
As Rio and Marina work to help White Beak find her way home, Rio discovers something remarkable: the ocean is alive with wonder, but it's also under terrible threat from pollution, shipping lanes, and climate change. Through his deepening bond with the whale, Rio begins to heal too, finding purpose and courage he never knew he had. From the bestselling author of The Last Bear, The Lost Whale is a moving, beautifully written story about the extraordinary connection between humans and animals, and about one boy's discovery that caring for the natural world can mend a broken heart.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
The Lost Whale connects directly to UWC's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The story weaves real science about whale migration, ocean ecosystems, and climate change into an emotionally gripping narrative, making complex environmental issues accessible and personal for young readers. For students in Singapore, an island nation surrounded by rich marine life, these themes feel especially relevant.
The book also models empathy and resilience. Rio learns to care for another living creature at a time when he himself is struggling, discovering that reaching out beyond your own pain is the beginning of healing. This message of connection and compassion is central to UWC's values, and the gentle, lyrical prose makes it a beautiful read-aloud choice for families to share together.
Reading Level Guide
Too challenging at A1. The descriptive passages about nature need stronger vocabulary. Start with The Last Bear or simpler animal stories first.
The sweet spot. The emotional story carries you through unfamiliar words, and the clear prose makes 304 pages feel effortless.
A gentle, enjoyable read at B2. Perfect for nature lovers. Try Pax for a similarly beautiful human-animal story with more literary challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.