New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe has teamed up with first-time author and friend Angela May on a new children's novel set on Dewees Island. The Islanders releases on June 15th and is a good option for younger readers ages 8 to 12. It’s Monroe's first middle grade novel, introducing a new generation of readers to her trademark passion for the environment.
The novel focuses on environmentalism and animal conservation, specifically loggerhead turtles, all while covering important middle grade topics of family, friendships, and mental health.
The Islanders tells the story of 11-year-old Jake and the summer he's forced to spend on tiny Dewees Island with his grandmother. Everything in his life is turned upside down: Jake does not know anyone, the island is a nature sanctuary with no cars or paved roads, no stores or restaurants and to make matters worse, Jake's grandmother doesn't believe in having cable or the internet at her house. When Jake meets new friends Macon and Lovie, the three embark on island adventures until one mistake changes everything. Ultimately, Jake discovers a deep love for the island and the healing power of nature.
Purchase The Islanders wherever books are sold. Learn more at maryalicemonroe.com/childrens-
Monroe is bestselling author of 27 books, including the beloved “Beach House” series. Her latest book in the series, The Summer of Lost and Found, was released in May by Gallery Books/Simon and Schuster. Monroe lives on Isle of Palms where she finds inspiration for the environmental and animal conservation themes that permeate many of her novels.
May is an award-winning journalist who spent more than a decade working in television newsrooms before launching her own company, May Media and PR, to help local businesses and individuals promote their stories in positive and effective ways. May has been working with Monroe for more than 10 years as her assistant and PR manager. May lives in Mount Pleasant with her husband and two sons.
Monroe approached May four years ago about co-writing a book for middle grade readers. They chose Dewees Island, S.C., as their setting because of their shared love for this residential barrier island that is also a nature sanctuary. They dedicated The Islanders to Monroe's grandchildren and May's children.
“When they are ages 8 to 12, children are so impressionable. They dream big and believe they can change the world,” Monroe said. “And I wanted to create a story that helps encourage that passion to help our planet through my own passions for storytelling and coastal conservation.”
A second book in this series is planned for release in 2022.
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