Olive's Ocean

In Kevin Henkes' Newbery Honor-winning novel, 'Olive's Ocean,' 12-year-old Martha's summer vacation takes an unexpected turn when she learns of a classmate's death. A journal entry reveals Olive's secret admiration and shared dreams, prompting Martha to reflect on unspoken connections and the nature of grief. Set against the backdrop of her grandmother's ocean cottage, Martha also navigates a first crush, family tensions, and her burgeoning identity as a writer. The book sensitively explores themes of loss, betrayal, self-discovery, and the power of memory, offering a poignant and contemplative read for middle-grade children.

On a summer visit to her grandmother's cottage by the ocean, twelve-year-old Martha gains perspective on the death of a classmate, on her relationship with her grandmother, on her feelings for an older boy, and on her plans to be a writer.