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Lorac
Lorac no se propuso ser la voz del océano, pero cuando el futuro está en juego, ser un héroe es la única opción.
Lorac, el más joven e inseguro de una familia de nómadas del mar, se ve envuelto en una serie de eventos inesperados que lo llevan a refugiarse en el corazón del océano.
La inmersión está llena de desafíos, pero con la ayuda de su nueva amiga Zoe, Lorac se une a una familia de criaturas centenarias y descubre los secretos del arrecife coralino: su verdadero hogar.
Sin embargo, una amenaza que afecta al mundo marino lo obliga a partir hacia el lugar que una vez conoció y ahora desconoce, en una atrevida misión para salvar a sus seres queridos y el océano.
Lorac deberá tomar decisiones difíciles, vivir en mundos que le son ajenos y demostrar su valía por el bien de todos, en una cautivadora historia que fusiona fantasía y ciencia para luchar por nuestro planeta.
~~~~~~~~
Recomendado para adultos y adolescentes a partir de 12 años, esta emocionante historia aborda temas universales como el valor de la familia y la amistad, el crecimiento personal y los desafíos globales que enfrenta nuestro mundo actual.
Incluye 15 ilustraciones originales del artista Evan Piccirillo.
Todo lo recaudado se invertirá en divulgar el libro para contribuir a la urgente tarea de preservar la vida en la Tierra.
~~~~~~~~
Lorac, el más joven e inseguro de una familia de nómadas del mar, se ve envuelto en una serie de eventos inesperados que lo llevan a refugiarse en el corazón del océano.
La inmersión está llena de desafíos, pero con la ayuda de su nueva amiga Zoe, Lorac se une a una familia de criaturas centenarias y descubre los secretos del arrecife coralino: su verdadero hogar.
Sin embargo, una amenaza que afecta al mundo marino lo obliga a partir hacia el lugar que una vez conoció y ahora desconoce, en una atrevida misión para salvar a sus seres queridos y el océano.
Lorac deberá tomar decisiones difíciles, vivir en mundos que le son ajenos y demostrar su valía por el bien de todos, en una cautivadora historia que fusiona fantasía y ciencia para luchar por nuestro planeta.
~~~~~~~~
Recomendado para adultos y adolescentes a partir de 12 años, esta emocionante historia aborda temas universales como el valor de la familia y la amistad, el crecimiento personal y los desafíos globales que enfrenta nuestro mundo actual.
Incluye 15 ilustraciones originales del artista Evan Piccirillo.
Todo lo recaudado se invertirá en divulgar el libro para contribuir a la urgente tarea de preservar la vida en la Tierra.
~~~~~~~~
- GenresSolarpunk
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2019
31 people want to read
About the author
Neus Figueras
3 books24 followersNeus Figueras is a scientist and writer who combines magic and reality in stories that will make you laugh, move you and make you dream, while challenging injustices and inviting you to reconnect with nature.
She has written a play, two comics and numerous stories for children and adults, six of which have won awards in literary contests. After the success of her first novel, Lorac, which immerses the reader in the marine world and resulted in her being appointed Young Ocean Advocate by the European Commission, she is excited to create new adventures that bring a ray of light to her readers' day-to-day lives.
~~~ Español ~~~
Neus Figueras es una científica y escritora que fusiona magia y realidad en historias que te harán reír, conmoverte y soñar, mientras desafían injusticias e invitan a reconectar con la naturaleza.
Ha escrito una obra de teatro, dos cómics y numerosos relatos para niños y adultos, seis de los cuales han sido galardonados en certámenes literarios. Tras el éxito de su primera novela, Lorac, que sumerge al lector en el mundo marino y la llevó a ser nombrada Joven Embajadora del Océano por la Comisión Europea, está entusiasmada por crear nuevas aventuras que aporten un rayo de luz al día a día de sus lectores.
She has written a play, two comics and numerous stories for children and adults, six of which have won awards in literary contests. After the success of her first novel, Lorac, which immerses the reader in the marine world and resulted in her being appointed Young Ocean Advocate by the European Commission, she is excited to create new adventures that bring a ray of light to her readers' day-to-day lives.
~~~ Español ~~~
Neus Figueras es una científica y escritora que fusiona magia y realidad en historias que te harán reír, conmoverte y soñar, mientras desafían injusticias e invitan a reconectar con la naturaleza.
Ha escrito una obra de teatro, dos cómics y numerosos relatos para niños y adultos, seis de los cuales han sido galardonados en certámenes literarios. Tras el éxito de su primera novela, Lorac, que sumerge al lector en el mundo marino y la llevó a ser nombrada Joven Embajadora del Océano por la Comisión Europea, está entusiasmada por crear nuevas aventuras que aporten un rayo de luz al día a día de sus lectores.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 6, 2020
**ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest review**
Wow!! It was a very different book with enthralling storyline and message. I really loved the way author started the story and took it to another level by adding the modern day twists. We can very well connect to the story and feel the need to protect our environment.
The beautiful pictures provides anchor to keep going ahed with the story.
Readers end up getting emotionally attached with Lorac for being strong and honest. Qualities of Lorac made us feel shallow, that a century old human is more compassionate about nature and world than us.
A beautiful story.
Wow!! It was a very different book with enthralling storyline and message. I really loved the way author started the story and took it to another level by adding the modern day twists. We can very well connect to the story and feel the need to protect our environment.
The beautiful pictures provides anchor to keep going ahed with the story.
Readers end up getting emotionally attached with Lorac for being strong and honest. Qualities of Lorac made us feel shallow, that a century old human is more compassionate about nature and world than us.
A beautiful story.
June 25, 2020
An adventure dramatic book with a humorous personality. An educational story about the coral reef ecosystem too. To add even more flavor, one of the main characters is an algae, Zoe, the short for Zooxanthella, a hard name indeed. She enters in symbiosis with Lorac, the other main character, and saves his life in the process. The transition to a symbiotic life is not easy, but they are managing it with a lot of humor.
The description of the ocean’s capital, the reef, was a continuous exercise of imagination (the animals are revealing its secrets to the reader) and an interesting source of information about marine ecology, the book is very educational - the author knows her oceans. I learned along with Lorac, our involuntary oceanographer. And here we come to the only problem, the author tries too much to push a message into the reader.
In the end, it’s a book for children, and the illustrations bring even more color into it.
The description of the ocean’s capital, the reef, was a continuous exercise of imagination (the animals are revealing its secrets to the reader) and an interesting source of information about marine ecology, the book is very educational - the author knows her oceans. I learned along with Lorac, our involuntary oceanographer. And here we come to the only problem, the author tries too much to push a message into the reader.
In the end, it’s a book for children, and the illustrations bring even more color into it.
May 3, 2020
I like stories that have a powerful message, and this one surely does: protect your oceans, protect your planet.
This story follows Lorac, who was was a likeable character and easy to connect with, as he tries to save the oceans from ocean climate change and pollution. This books has lots of likeable characters, Zoe is worth to mention, her fun dialogues and her interactions with Lorac were some of the most enjoyable aspects of this story.
This book comes with with amazing illustrations, a great addition to a nice story.
The only thing I struggled a bit with was the fact that were was a bit of too much info dumping for my liking. Of course, people who'd want to learn more about the ocean and marine creatures will find this aspect really interesting.
This story follows Lorac, who was was a likeable character and easy to connect with, as he tries to save the oceans from ocean climate change and pollution. This books has lots of likeable characters, Zoe is worth to mention, her fun dialogues and her interactions with Lorac were some of the most enjoyable aspects of this story.
This book comes with with amazing illustrations, a great addition to a nice story.
The only thing I struggled a bit with was the fact that were was a bit of too much info dumping for my liking. Of course, people who'd want to learn more about the ocean and marine creatures will find this aspect really interesting.
February 13, 2020
A wonderfully written tale with gorgeous illustrations and such an impactful message! This book takes you on the journey of Lorac, a young man who loves the sea. In order to avoid any spoilers, I will not go too into detail, but the reader follows the lovable character Lorac in his efforts to save the ocean from pollution and climate change. Though he endures many hardships, he also has quite a bit of fun. The reader not only gets to follow Lorac and his friends on his journey, but they get to hear a powerful message about saving the oceans and the planet. This book is both enjoyable and educational; I hope that Lorac and his message will continue to reach many people.
"I'm with Lorac!"
"I'm with Lorac!"
May 30, 2020
Lorac by Neus Figueras is a fantastically crafted YA adventure following the story of Lorac, who, after a devastating and surprising loss early on, embarks on an enthralling adventure with Zoe, an algae that lives inside him and enables him to breathe underwater. The premise is unique and refreshing, the story a little simple at times but very engaging, and the characters (particularly Lorac) are likeable from the very start.
The most striking thing about this book that I found when I picked it up was the cover - it is beautiful. And the artwork doesn’t stop there, as there are around a dozen or so other drawings dotted throughout the pages. I sometimes found myself stopping and looking at these for long periods of time as they complement the story beautifully. I did feel that they detracted a little from any description, and at times they seemed to allow the author to skip over writing them; for example, we get very little description of Lorac at the start and have to base our thoughts off the pictures of him. At times I found this distancing me a little from the text and would have liked the author's skill to shine through.
The first plot twist that ignites the story really took my breath away. It came out of left field and I was completely stunned. From then on I was enthralled with watching how Lorac would cope on the island, and then further on through his underwater adventures to the present day. I honestly did not expect to feel such sorrow from a YA novel and the author must be applauded for that.
There are a few things that bothered me but I don’t feel such detract from such a good rating. My main issue was that, while this is a well-researched book, there are a number of scientific terms and processes explained that felt out of place. Lorac, a boy from a rural boating community with no schooling background and who lives in 1908, somehow seems to understand what these words and processes are (such as oxygen in the bloodstream, the method of photosynthesis) and does not question it or give it any further thought. While I agree that it would be boring to explain them over and over until we felt he understood, it did seem like a convenient way to force something in just to drive the story.
Ultimately, Lorac’s message is as crystal clear as the waters in which he swims in, and the book highlights the issues around ocean conservation in a very impactful way. After finishing this book I was left with three words to say: I’m with Lorac. Well done Neus Figueras on an outstanding piece of work.
The most striking thing about this book that I found when I picked it up was the cover - it is beautiful. And the artwork doesn’t stop there, as there are around a dozen or so other drawings dotted throughout the pages. I sometimes found myself stopping and looking at these for long periods of time as they complement the story beautifully. I did feel that they detracted a little from any description, and at times they seemed to allow the author to skip over writing them; for example, we get very little description of Lorac at the start and have to base our thoughts off the pictures of him. At times I found this distancing me a little from the text and would have liked the author's skill to shine through.
The first plot twist that ignites the story really took my breath away. It came out of left field and I was completely stunned. From then on I was enthralled with watching how Lorac would cope on the island, and then further on through his underwater adventures to the present day. I honestly did not expect to feel such sorrow from a YA novel and the author must be applauded for that.
There are a few things that bothered me but I don’t feel such detract from such a good rating. My main issue was that, while this is a well-researched book, there are a number of scientific terms and processes explained that felt out of place. Lorac, a boy from a rural boating community with no schooling background and who lives in 1908, somehow seems to understand what these words and processes are (such as oxygen in the bloodstream, the method of photosynthesis) and does not question it or give it any further thought. While I agree that it would be boring to explain them over and over until we felt he understood, it did seem like a convenient way to force something in just to drive the story.
Ultimately, Lorac’s message is as crystal clear as the waters in which he swims in, and the book highlights the issues around ocean conservation in a very impactful way. After finishing this book I was left with three words to say: I’m with Lorac. Well done Neus Figueras on an outstanding piece of work.
April 19, 2020
Underwater Tarzan
This middle-grade novel felt like two stories joined at the middle. The first started dark and became happier and light. I enjoyed this story and learned about marine life. The second was cynical. It started happy and became depressing. It wasn't as much fun. Taken separately, the first half is four stars and the second is two stars. The writing was strong throughout and many will enjoy the full story of Lorac's life. The rest of my review will have spoilers.
The Good.
I enjoyed the illustrations.
Lorac and his family had great chemistry. I liked the dizzy duck taunt. I wish he'd spent more time thinking of them.
I read this in my former twelve-year-old mindset, so the fate of Lorac's family thrilled me. I also liked how he learned of Zoe and what was essentially algae magic.
The Zoe and Lorac relationship was the highlight of the book. She was a great friend and literally saved him.
The author knows her oceans. I learned along with Lorac. It will lead to more oceanographer in the future.
The sharks as ocean agents! Classic.
Lorac's encounter with the scarred dolphin and San Win statue were cathartic moments.
The concept of water language.
How Zoe and Coalman came to their understanding. It was a great conclusion.
The Bad.
The first pages were exposition heavy.
Lorac didn't seem to mourn his family. I understand MG novels tend to gloss over trauma, but he never even considered searching for his brother. Why?
The back half felt like heavy handed finger wagging. When an author has a message, that's fine. When the target audience is kids, the finger on the scale veers toward propaganda. A shame because the conservation message is important. I feel a little more tact would have been better for me.
The back half felt rushed. Lorac went viral rather easily. A few scenes of depression would have felt more natural.
The Technical.
There are multiple POVs.
This middle-grade novel felt like two stories joined at the middle. The first started dark and became happier and light. I enjoyed this story and learned about marine life. The second was cynical. It started happy and became depressing. It wasn't as much fun. Taken separately, the first half is four stars and the second is two stars. The writing was strong throughout and many will enjoy the full story of Lorac's life. The rest of my review will have spoilers.
The Good.
I enjoyed the illustrations.
Lorac and his family had great chemistry. I liked the dizzy duck taunt. I wish he'd spent more time thinking of them.
I read this in my former twelve-year-old mindset, so the fate of Lorac's family thrilled me. I also liked how he learned of Zoe and what was essentially algae magic.
The Zoe and Lorac relationship was the highlight of the book. She was a great friend and literally saved him.
The author knows her oceans. I learned along with Lorac. It will lead to more oceanographer in the future.
The sharks as ocean agents! Classic.
Lorac's encounter with the scarred dolphin and San Win statue were cathartic moments.
The concept of water language.
How Zoe and Coalman came to their understanding. It was a great conclusion.
The Bad.
The first pages were exposition heavy.
Lorac didn't seem to mourn his family. I understand MG novels tend to gloss over trauma, but he never even considered searching for his brother. Why?
The back half felt like heavy handed finger wagging. When an author has a message, that's fine. When the target audience is kids, the finger on the scale veers toward propaganda. A shame because the conservation message is important. I feel a little more tact would have been better for me.
The back half felt rushed. Lorac went viral rather easily. A few scenes of depression would have felt more natural.
The Technical.
There are multiple POVs.
January 9, 2021
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
LORAC is a YA fantasy adventure. The main character, Lorac, finds himself having to make important decisions, while learning more about the world and his role in it.
Plot
It was a pleasant surprise to find illustrations in the story, but it was a wonderful addition. The story started off strong. Learning more about the coral reefs and their connection to the Big Five Mass Extinctions was eye-opening and the ending was unexpected. The author does a wonderful job including real facts, unfortunately it was rather overwhelming at times and overshadowed the story especially during the second half of the book. In addition, there was a character introduction that felt misplaced. We received one page of a new character’s background and did not hear anything more for 20 chapters, which was a bit confusing.
Language
There were some awkward phrases, such as “in this story,” that could have been left out and others that could have been modified. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing throughout the story, which is further enhanced by the amount of information and facts the reader receives.
Audience
The target audience is stated as 12+ and adults however, it is still unclear at the end of the story. The first half felt like it was appropriate for a young audience, since it read more as a fun adventure while learning a bit more about our planet. The second half was very different and felt more appropriate for teens due to the language (there is one curse word) and the amount of information that is received.
In conclusion, the topic is important and the message is great. We definitely need more books like this and I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the coral reefs. As the author wrote, we can all be a part of the solution.
LORAC is a YA fantasy adventure. The main character, Lorac, finds himself having to make important decisions, while learning more about the world and his role in it.
Plot
It was a pleasant surprise to find illustrations in the story, but it was a wonderful addition. The story started off strong. Learning more about the coral reefs and their connection to the Big Five Mass Extinctions was eye-opening and the ending was unexpected. The author does a wonderful job including real facts, unfortunately it was rather overwhelming at times and overshadowed the story especially during the second half of the book. In addition, there was a character introduction that felt misplaced. We received one page of a new character’s background and did not hear anything more for 20 chapters, which was a bit confusing.
Language
There were some awkward phrases, such as “in this story,” that could have been left out and others that could have been modified. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing throughout the story, which is further enhanced by the amount of information and facts the reader receives.
Audience
The target audience is stated as 12+ and adults however, it is still unclear at the end of the story. The first half felt like it was appropriate for a young audience, since it read more as a fun adventure while learning a bit more about our planet. The second half was very different and felt more appropriate for teens due to the language (there is one curse word) and the amount of information that is received.
In conclusion, the topic is important and the message is great. We definitely need more books like this and I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the coral reefs. As the author wrote, we can all be a part of the solution.
November 4, 2020
This gorgeously illustrated book is a feast for the eyes and a treat for the soul. It's written for a younger audience, obviously, and the narrator chooses a simple, conversational style that could appeal to even the youngest of readers (or could at least be read to them). But even as an adult, LORAC is a pleasant and easy read, as entertaining as it is educational (touching on family values, friendship, the importance of a symbiotic ecosystem, and climate change).
Lorac is a young member of the Moken tribe, an unusual group of sea nomads, an unconventional sixth son in a familial structure that traditionally calls for only 5 children, and a really decent kid. I loved how his differences set him apart immediately -- his sea-sickness despite his family's legacy as sailors -- and how they evolved to showcase his strengths rather than his weaknesses. As is often the case in coming-of-age stories, an unexpected tragedy quickly pushes him outside of his comfort zone. (This line is gold: "Like most people, Lorac hadn't really understood life wasn't forever until he had been at risk.") And that's where the adventures and a whole new underwater world of incredible characters come into play.
I especially loved that there's no Moken word for "goodbye", by the way... just see you later. And the concept that dolphins are a link between the living and the dead. :)
Lorac is a young member of the Moken tribe, an unusual group of sea nomads, an unconventional sixth son in a familial structure that traditionally calls for only 5 children, and a really decent kid. I loved how his differences set him apart immediately -- his sea-sickness despite his family's legacy as sailors -- and how they evolved to showcase his strengths rather than his weaknesses. As is often the case in coming-of-age stories, an unexpected tragedy quickly pushes him outside of his comfort zone. (This line is gold: "Like most people, Lorac hadn't really understood life wasn't forever until he had been at risk.") And that's where the adventures and a whole new underwater world of incredible characters come into play.
I especially loved that there's no Moken word for "goodbye", by the way... just see you later. And the concept that dolphins are a link between the living and the dead. :)
June 16, 2020
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(4.2) What an interesting book! I have to admit, at around 15% in, I got a little skeptical, what with the fantasy element of this book and all. BUT, I kept reading and it really is an excellent book.
This book is a great book to read right now, in fact the world needs a book like this at these times. It follows the story of Lorac, a boy who, at the beginning of the book, suffers several misfortunes that lead to him becoming stranded on an island! Lorac manages to survive, with the help of his new friend, and while this sounds like a typical "stranded on an island" situation--something like "Island of the Blue Dolphins," I assure you, it's nothing like that. This book raises important questions and thoughts about climate change and how to stop it. While some of the things that happened really could not happen in real life, everything about climate change and how Lorac strives to stop it is completely true. This is a very important book to read for times like this when climate change is becoming bigger and bigger every day.
(4.2) What an interesting book! I have to admit, at around 15% in, I got a little skeptical, what with the fantasy element of this book and all. BUT, I kept reading and it really is an excellent book.
This book is a great book to read right now, in fact the world needs a book like this at these times. It follows the story of Lorac, a boy who, at the beginning of the book, suffers several misfortunes that lead to him becoming stranded on an island! Lorac manages to survive, with the help of his new friend, and while this sounds like a typical "stranded on an island" situation--something like "Island of the Blue Dolphins," I assure you, it's nothing like that. This book raises important questions and thoughts about climate change and how to stop it. While some of the things that happened really could not happen in real life, everything about climate change and how Lorac strives to stop it is completely true. This is a very important book to read for times like this when climate change is becoming bigger and bigger every day.
July 9, 2020
I'm usually not into many of the sea-based books, but this one was able to keep my attention! A main character who feels that he's out-of-place and is often forced to adapt to very difficult situations keeps the story interesting. The book also ties into the importance of maintaining the environment while still maintaining the more story-like aspects of the book. Would definitely recommend this to someone looking to read something new and unique!
August 16, 2020
I read Lorac over the weekend, it was enjoyable, something very different and had an educational message.
The writer is definitely an expert in knowing her subject area, and this shines throughout the book, the illustrations were also beautiful and complimented the scenes.
I'm giving five stars as its always refreshing to read something so different, and the message is one we all need to hear!
The writer is definitely an expert in knowing her subject area, and this shines throughout the book, the illustrations were also beautiful and complimented the scenes.
I'm giving five stars as its always refreshing to read something so different, and the message is one we all need to hear!
September 28, 2021
Una tragedia asola la vida de Lorac mientras descansa junto a su familia en una isla. Su presente cambia por completo y se convierte en toda una prueba a superar, la supervivencia.
Cuando las cosas se ponen feas, no queda otra que tratar de seguir adelante, de aprender y de compartir, porque así todo es mejor. Al compartir, entra en juego la confianza, pieza fundamental sin la cual sería todo más complejo.
Este libro cumple una doble función, la de entretener y la de aportar conocimientos sobre el mundo submarino. Además, contiene importantes valores que jamás se tendrían que obviar y una parte de denuncia.
Cuando las cosas se ponen feas, no queda otra que tratar de seguir adelante, de aprender y de compartir, porque así todo es mejor. Al compartir, entra en juego la confianza, pieza fundamental sin la cual sería todo más complejo.
Este libro cumple una doble función, la de entretener y la de aportar conocimientos sobre el mundo submarino. Además, contiene importantes valores que jamás se tendrían que obviar y una parte de denuncia.
May 28, 2021
*ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest review*
Wow what can I say about this book, whilst I'm not used to reading books like this, all I can say is that I am glad I was given the chance to review it.
The main character Lorac, is one of a kind, it shows just how emotional you can get with a character as you go on a journey with them.
I also like the pictures that are in the book, it adds another layer to the story, as you go on a lovely journey with the characters.
Wow what can I say about this book, whilst I'm not used to reading books like this, all I can say is that I am glad I was given the chance to review it.
The main character Lorac, is one of a kind, it shows just how emotional you can get with a character as you go on a journey with them.
I also like the pictures that are in the book, it adds another layer to the story, as you go on a lovely journey with the characters.
May 22, 2020
Absolutely loved the book!! Had great illustrations and the storyline was so interesting!! Also loved how it was about the ocean and it’s creatures! Super way to teach kids about ocean health!! ♥️
January 14, 2024
Muy guay
March 29, 2020
Es un libro entretenido que engancha y se lee muy rápido, con un enfoque un poco infantil sobre un problema muy adulto así que tanto adolescentes como adultos pueden disfrutarlo. Tiene ciertas reflexiones sobre la relación de los seres humanos con la naturaleza, respaldas en ciencia, que conviene tener en cuenta. El libro brilla en su aspecto científico que refleja la faceta profesional de la autora.
Hay que tener en cuenta que es un libro autopublicado y podría mejorarse con una edición profesional, muy recomendable de todos modos.
Espero que Neus siga escribiendo y nos sorprenda con más libros!
Hay que tener en cuenta que es un libro autopublicado y podría mejorarse con una edición profesional, muy recomendable de todos modos.
Espero que Neus siga escribiendo y nos sorprenda con más libros!
March 27, 2020
This is the first book by this Author that I have read. A well written story that makes you stop and think, what more can you do to help our oceans. This is the story of Lorac a man of the ocean, and how important they are to our lifes. Once I started reading I was not putting the book down until I finished reading it. The story is done in parts PART I | 1903, PART II | 1903-2018, and PART III | 2018-2020. The illustrations a beautifully done. I recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2020
If any book could start a movement, this one might be it.
The story starts out with some elements that made me think of Disney's wonderful film, Moana, but then evolves into something quite different. I really wasn't sure where it was headed and I was surprised several times. I think this could make a nice Pixar film. It deals with themes of family, growing up, independence, and global earth issues.
I'm no marine biologist but as a surfer I spend a lot of time in the ocean. Learning about the corals was so fascinating! At times the story was really depressing, especially reading it right now in the middle of the pandemic. But it was also filled with hope. I enjoyed the fact section at the end, it made a nice addition to the story. Last, the illustrations were beautifully done.
The story starts out with some elements that made me think of Disney's wonderful film, Moana, but then evolves into something quite different. I really wasn't sure where it was headed and I was surprised several times. I think this could make a nice Pixar film. It deals with themes of family, growing up, independence, and global earth issues.
I'm no marine biologist but as a surfer I spend a lot of time in the ocean. Learning about the corals was so fascinating! At times the story was really depressing, especially reading it right now in the middle of the pandemic. But it was also filled with hope. I enjoyed the fact section at the end, it made a nice addition to the story. Last, the illustrations were beautifully done.
January 14, 2025
Este libro está en mi top 3. Sin darte cuenta, la fantasía de esta historia te envuelve en un tema muy importante de actualidad. He aprendido sobre el mar y sus habitantes, así como de la situación medioambiental que nos atañe a todos. El relato engancha desde el minuto uno. Está escrito tan bien que te sumerges en la vida de Lorac mientras adquieres conocimientos sin percatarte de ello. Ya la he leído tres veces. El final... sin palabras. Es un orgullo para los españoles tener a una escritora científica motivada. ¡Gracias!
May 11, 2020
LORAC is the story of a young boy and his hundred-and-seventeen-year fantasy adventure on and in the sea. His family is gone. He's totally alone and marooned on a deserted and uncharted island. How will he survive? He really hasn't learned how to do much of anything but it's all on him. It's time to step up his game. At first, everything he tries fails. Then something miraculous happens—he meets an algae named Zoe. They forge a symbiotic friendship and Lorac is in for the adventure of two lifetimes. To say more would be a spoiler.
The premise of the storyline is both creative and engaging but unfortunately, the iron-handed "message" of the book overshadowed and replaced much of the story. It felt like I was being hit over the head with an environmental two-by-four. This is not to say the message isn't valid but less would have been more for the target audience. Perhaps an afterword about what has happened to ocean due to man's negligence would have served both the story and its message more effectively.
The premise of the storyline is both creative and engaging but unfortunately, the iron-handed "message" of the book overshadowed and replaced much of the story. It felt like I was being hit over the head with an environmental two-by-four. This is not to say the message isn't valid but less would have been more for the target audience. Perhaps an afterword about what has happened to ocean due to man's negligence would have served both the story and its message more effectively.
September 20, 2020
* provided by the author in exchange for an honest review *This book is divided into two halves. The first half tells Lorac's grief and adjustments to being orphaned and his new life living with the coral. The second half is about how he can make a difference in the ongoing battle against climate change and, more specifically, pollution of the oceans. I applaud anyone that takes on a bold and outspoken approach to this divisive topic, but I struggled at times with the target audience. The first half clearly read like a child's adventure story and that was fun. The second half had a darker tone and at times, I felt bogged down with purple prose. '"Picked up the books and left them in precarious equilibrium on the shelf.'" Was one example. All in all it is a well told story with an important message, but I felt it was too adult at times when the audience was meant to be 12-14 year olds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2023
Un libro que sin lugar a dudas debería de leer todo el mundo.
Estando en un momento más que crítico con el medio ambiente, Lorac te enseña cuánto de grave es el problema, desde un punto incluso científico, con datos reales (incluyo esto ya que muchas veces me he encontrado con libros que dan datos que duele leerlos y en este libro es todo lo contrario). Te va adentrando en un aprendizaje de manera muy amena, casi sin darte cuenta, solo siguiendo la historia del personaje principal.
Es una lectura fresca, amena y con mucho valor.
Estando en un momento más que crítico con el medio ambiente, Lorac te enseña cuánto de grave es el problema, desde un punto incluso científico, con datos reales (incluyo esto ya que muchas veces me he encontrado con libros que dan datos que duele leerlos y en este libro es todo lo contrario). Te va adentrando en un aprendizaje de manera muy amena, casi sin darte cuenta, solo siguiendo la historia del personaje principal.
Es una lectura fresca, amena y con mucho valor.
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