Inspired by Monterey Bay — its real coastline, the threats it faces, and the scientists at MBARI, Hopkins Marine Station, and Moss Landing Marine Labs working to study and protect it.
The Mia Kingtide series begins when 10-year-old Mia, growing up in the small coastal town of Sand City, rescues a stranded octopus and receives a magical shell that lets her breathe underwater and speak with sea creatures. In The Octopus' Gift, her connection to the ocean begins with a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the real scientists who inspired her journey. In Guardian of the Coast, 12-year-old Mia confronts illegal fishing and environmental threats from Año Nuevo to Half Moon Bay. In Journey to the Sea of Cortez, she sails two months aboard the family trawler Pegasus, retracing the route made famous by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts. In The Vanishing Sanctuary, 13-year-old Mia races to stop a deep-sea mining operation off Pacific Grove before Monterey Bay's marine sanctuary is lost for good.
Mia Kingtide Book 1
After rescuing a trapped octopus, Mia receives a magical shell that forever changes her life. With her newfound ability to communicate with sea creatures, she begins a journey of discovery, compassion, and marine conservation. Features real-world ocean issues such as urchin barrens, whale entanglements, and pollution.
Mia Kingtide Book 2
Now empowered with her gift, Mia steps up to protect coastal ecosystems from illegal fishing and pollution. A story of action, friendship, and what it means to truly care for the sea. Featuring real-world issues such as shark finning, pop-up crab traps, and the Western Flyer.
Mia Kingtide Book 3
Mia and her family set off aboard Pegasus, journeying down the California coast into the Sea of Cortez. They dive with marine wildlife, explore the towns and life of Baja, and confront challenges threatening delicate ecosystems. Inspired by John Steinbeck's Log from the Sea of Cortez.
Mia Kingtide Book 4
With Monterey Bay's protected status under threat, Mia must confront political and environmental forces beyond anything she's faced. As the ocean itself sends her warnings, a deep and ancient secret stirs in the depths.
