Advance Praise from teachers and students
"The story masterfully explores how grief changes individuals within a family and the interpersonal dynamics of the family group. It’s an especially accurate depiction of how children take on responsibility for death losses and how challenging it can be to rewrite those narratives of guilt and self-blame. Sophie Kai’s process of finally talking with her mother about their loss was beautiful and a powerful model for how honest conversation can completely transform family connections and create space for healing."
—Leila Salisbury, Founding Director at The Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families
"In What the Sea Horse Told Me, author Mary Knight delivers another captivating narrative that seamlessly intertwines spiritual beliefs, nature, and the complexities of modern-day adolescence.
"Leaving the hollers of the Appalachian Mountains in Eastern Kentucky from Knight’s debut novel, Saving Wonder, this novel travels to Hawaii—embarking readers on a profound journey of self-discovery and acceptance through the eyes of a dynamic middle school-aged protagonist. Sophie Kai, with a little inspiration from a sea horse, offers a refreshing perspective on themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of embracing one's unique talents.
"The novel transcends genres with readers being drawn into a journey where the ordinary and the extraordinary coexist, inviting them to ponder what is truly possible. While rooted in Hawaiian spirituality, the novel speaks to universal truths about the interconnectedness of all beings and the power of intuition, perception, and friendship. It challenges readers to see and feel beyond the limitations of the physical world, encouraging them to embrace their inner selves. What the Sea Horse Told Me is sure to resonate with readers, igniting deep and thought-provoking conversations—an experience that I am eagerly anticipating sharing with the students in my class."
—Jesse Fawess, middle school ELA teacher, Long Island, NY
"Here, beautifully bundled in one 280 page book, is coming-of-age, self-acceptance, empathy, moral imperative, friendship, action and just plain fun."
—Robert Topp, Read Me A Story, Ink
"I simply adore the multiple themes woven throughout the story: acceptance and appreciation for any and all differences in people, acceptance of oneself, learning that coping with the death of a loved one is incredibly difficult - but possible, an appreciation for our precious environment, an appreciation for the wisdom of others, past and present, the power of friendship, compassion for others, belief in oneself....just WOW!!!!"
—Allison O’Connor, 7th grade ELA teacher, Wappingers Falls, NY
"“A heartwarming story that celebrates the aloha culture of Hawaii, while deftly weaving the nuances of growing up with the complexities of healing from grief. The young protagonist is gifted with believable, supernatural abilities that are embraced through the help of genuine friendships found in the unlikeliest of acquaintances. I enjoyed the thread of seahorse facts and of the innocence of youth bravely stepping up to intervene on behalf of vulnerable animals. An uplifting story that you’ll want to snuggle up and read."
—Jen Molitor, principal and former middle school ELA teacher, OH
"Exquisitely beautiful! Knight’s writing took me on an emotional journey of protagonist Sophie Kai’s healing and transformation, and her themes of friendship, family, love, empathy, justice, mercy, and compassion spoke volumes as to why this novel needs to be in the hands of our young people. Thank you, mahalo, Mary Knight for sharing this book with the world!"
-Rosie Sansalone, middle school ELA teacher for 27 years, Cincinnati, OH
"Mary Knight uses strong language and descriptive sentences to bring the book to life. Readers will feel Sophie Kai’s troubles and victories as she finds her special place at camp and finds her love for the island animals. I couldn't stop thinking about Sophie Kai from the moment I opened the book to flipping the last page shut. Every middle schooler should read What The Seahorse Told Me!"
Elsie Fricke, 6th grader
"This book is amazing! Parts were sad, happy, funny, helpful, and the biggest one is friendly. I give it 5 stars!"
—Hunter Tigar, 6th grader
"Themes of friendship, family, and love make this heartwarming story one you will love! The Hawaiian culture that is weaved throughout will make you wonder for more and desire to pay the island a visit. Sophie Kai, and her friends and family, take readers on a journey that is endearing with just enough action to keep the pages turning. Her story of finding and accepting herself will resonate with readers both young and old. What The Seahorse Told Me will become a treasure for readers! 5 stars!"
—Mindy Logan, Library Media Specialist, Sandersville Elementary, Lexington KY
"What the Seahorse Told Me is an inspiring story about how a young girl with Hawaiian roots learns the power of using her unique gifts to make the world a better place. The book's main character, Sophie Kia, deeply connects and empathizes with animals. This empathy leads her on a quest, and all along the way, we see how much the world needs her—and all of us—to share that empathy. The book urges the readers to think about global environmental issues and calls us all to action, to use our voices and gifts to protect ocean animals and the world around us."
