Book details
Blue Skin of the Sea
Description
Eleven interlinked stories tell the tale of a boy coming of age in Kailua-Kona, a Hawaiian fishing village. Sonny Mendoza is a little different from the rest of the men in his family. Salisbury explores characters like Aunty Pearl, a full-blooded Hawaiian as regal as the queens of old; cool Jack, from L.A., who starts a gang and dares Sonny to be brave enough, cruel enough, to join; mysterious Melanie, who steals his heart; and Deeps, the shark hunter.But the most memorable character is the sea itself: inviting, unpredictable, deadly. Mendoza men are brave men, but Sonny's courage is of a different kind. Why can't he love and trust the water as the men of his family are meant to do?From the Paperback edition.
Age
12-17
Text complexity
proficient
Length
224 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Blue Skin of the Sea' offers readers a vivid portrayal of Hawaiian culture, traditions, and the unique lifestyle of growing up in Hawaii. It provides an immersive experience that can broaden one's understanding and appreciation of this distinctive cultural setting.
- Coming-of-Age Stories: The book is a collection of linked short stories that follow the protagonist, Sonny Mendoza, as he grows up. These stories capture the universal themes of coming of age, such as self-discovery, friendship, family, and the transition from childhood to adulthood.
- Engaging Narrative: Graham Salisbury's storytelling is engaging and accessible, making it a great read for both young adults and adults. The narrative is filled with adventures, emotional depth, and relatable characters that keep readers invested in the story.
- Environmental Awareness: Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Hawaiian landscape, 'Blue Skin of the Sea' touches on the relationship between humans and nature. It encourages readers to think about environmental conservation and the impact of human activities on the natural world.