What This Book Is About
Hector lives with his family at a small marina on the Italian coast, where they run a diving centre and take tourists on underwater expeditions. More than anything, Hector dreams of becoming a deep-sea diver, just like his father and grandfather before him. The sea is his whole world—full of colour, mystery, and creatures he knows by name.
Then everything changes. An unscrupulous businessman opens a flashy new centre next door, stealing all their customers and threatening to shut them down for good. But this rival has a darker purpose: he's hunting for a legendary pearl said to possess extraordinary power, and he doesn't care what damage he does to the ocean floor in the process. Hector decides he must stop him. With courage, quick thinking, and a little help from the sea itself, Hector embarks on an underwater quest to find the pearl first and protect the place he loves. Originally published in Italian and beautifully illustrated by Iacopo Bruno, this enchanting story blends fantasy, adventure, and a powerful message about protecting our oceans.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
The Secret of the Magic Pearl aligns perfectly with UWC's emphasis on environmental stewardship and global perspectives. The story gives young readers a vivid understanding of why protecting marine ecosystems matters—not through lectures, but through a hero they can root for. Hector's determination to stand up against greed and defend his community models exactly the kind of courageous, principled action UWC hopes to cultivate.
At just 92 pages with generous illustrations, the book is an ideal stepping stone for Grade 3 readers transitioning from picture books to chapter books. The Italian coastal setting also broadens students' cultural horizons, showing them a world beyond their own while exploring universal themes of family, courage, and caring for the natural world.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
The sweet spot. Short chapters and beautiful illustrations keep the story moving, while new vocabulary builds naturally through context.
A quick, easy read. Great for building reading speed and confidence.
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.