Wed. Nov 20th, 2024

Bringing to the attention of her young audience the perils and horrific damage that plastic can cause on the beautiful inhabitants of our oceans and seas, Sprite and the Two Talking Turtles captivates readers, whilst also encouraging discussions about protecting our environment for all.

In a rhyming tale that showcases the passion this author and award-winning teacher has for developing children’s interest in the world around us, Carmen Powell’s storytelling and stunning illustrations are all about promoting inclusiveness, being kind and having fun.

With the issue of plastic in our oceans attracting significant media attention in recent years (and featured significantly on David Attenborough’s Blue Planet), Sprite and the Two Talking Turtles not only brings the issue into the consciousness of our youngsters but conveys a message that will stay for always.

Matthew and Sprite are playing a game on the beach when Sprite loses the stick. They both hear a cry for help and come to the rescue.

The author says:

“The story appeals to young children’s imagination. It is set outdoors, supporting Forest School ethos. Research shows that spending time in nature can help children’s concentration, whilst an element of risk and achievable challenge in their play helps to develop confidence and self-esteem.”

“I kept the same characters of Matthew and Sprite from the previous story. However, this time their adventure takes them to the seaside. Kindness and friendship are promoted throughout. For instance, the turtles are trying to get to Turtle Rock but get stuck in a plastic bag on the beach.”

“I wanted to write another story for this series that involved being by the sea. I spent many summers, in my childhood, by the sea in Malta.  My parents used to take us to the seaside very early in the morning, so we got the best spot and we stayed there for 12 hours. My brother, my sister and I spent many hours exploring the sea using our goggles and flippers. We enjoyed diving and jumping. These activities created a great love of learning and discovery.  This is why I am dedicating the book to my parents.”

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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