Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly is a beautiful story. The main character, Iris, is deaf and often feels alone. When she hears about a lonely whale called Blue 55 who cannot communicate with others of his kind, Iris feels a deep connection. Inspired, Iris puts together a special song for him at his own frequency to encourage him. Iris sends her song to the sanctuary aiding Blue 55, who decide to play her song. Iris desperately wants to be there for the sanctuary’s mission, but there’s only one problem. The sanctuary is in Alaska, and there is no way she can convince her family to make a trip to Alaska in time to see Blue 55. If you want to find out how and if Iris will be able reach Blue 55, I highly recommend that you read Song for a Whale.
It is evident that Lynne Kelly put plenty of thought into this heartfelt book. Being an American Sign Language interpreter, she sprinkles interesting insights on deaf culture throughout the book. Iris is a very loveable character, and when Kelly describes Iris’ feelings, the reader feels them too.
If this interests you at all, please go read Song for a Whale. Get to know Iris. Get to know Blue 55. Go embark on a beautiful journey.
Please check out these additional resources.
In the video below, Lynne Kelly herself will introduce you to her book.
Song for a Whale was based on a real whale, Blue 52. Above, you can listen to his song, and read what Lynne Kelly has to say about him and how he inspired her book.