It’s impossible to ignore, our planet needs looking after. A climate in crisis, rainforests at risk, the seas in strife, a planet in a pickle. Inspired by Jasbinder Bilan’s love of nature and the many heartwarming stories of young eco-warriors, conservationists and climate campaigners comes a timely, vital and impactful story that will encourage everyone to be more mindful of the effect their actions have on oceans and marine life.

Friends Satchen and Tulsi love climbing the ancient volcanic hill. From the top, stood next to the old whale jawbone monument, they can see everything; the town, the sea and their special island with the lighthouse. When Tulsi spots something amiss in the waves, the two decide to investigate. What they discover is beyond their wildest dreams. A rescue mission is needed. But when a storm arrives it is the two friends who need saving and help comes from a most surprising source…
Stunningly illustrated by Skylar White - the humpback whale breaching is particularly special - Calling the Whales is a pulsating read that weaves friendship, bravery and a passion for protecting the natural world into a perilous ocean adventure. High stakes and high drama are all packed into a tightly written narrative that delivers powerful and heartfelt messages around conservation and the role we all have in looking after the planet, especially the oceans.

Tweens Satchen and Tulsi are brilliant characters and inspiring role-models. Caring greatly about the planet they do whatever they can to help look after it from fundraising and beach cleans to risking their lives to save a stranded whale. Living by the ocean they feel closely connected to it and are all too aware of the problems that marine life face. Like many children this pair are unwilling to just let things be, they know they can make a difference and that every action, no matter how small, is important.

The moving homage to oceans and whales implores us all to respect and to care, and to ultimately protect and save. Raising the issues is just the start, more important are the actions that need to be taken to fix the damage. Through the story and some excellent bonus content including information on humpback whales and ways to help, readers will not only feel informed and encouraged but empowered and equipped to take action. We can save the seas and we can ensure waters are a safe place for these magnificent and intelligent creatures to not only survive, but thrive.

There is hope for the future; humans do have the ability to change their ways and to make a difference - the biggest and most meaningful of differences. We are, after all, guardians of the planet, and it is our responsibility to persevere it for generations to come, and maybe, just maybe, like Satchen and Tulsi, save the natural world (embarking on solo ocean rescue missions not advised).

A wonderful read and with Barrington Stoke’s trademark high-interest low-readability text and dyslexic-friendly font and page tint everyone can enjoy, benefit and be challenged by this powerful novella. Perfect for children in upper key stage two.

Recommended for 8+.

With huge thanks to Barrington Stoke for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.

Perfect for fans of Hannah Gold's The Lost Whale, Jasbinder Bilan has penned a dramatic and touching story with a strong ecological message. Set in Scotland, it is a race against time to see if Tulsi and Satchen can save a whale caught up in fishing gear.

When Tulsi and Satchen set off in a boat to their favourite remote island, they soon find themselves embroiled in a desperate rescue mission. A whale is ensnared in the shallows and, with no way of calling for help, it's up to them to save it.

But when a vicious storm hits, it's not long before Tulsi and Satchen realise that they are the ones in serious danger. But is it too late for anyone to help them?

This is a lovely, gentle story about nature and friendship and about the bonds humans can forge with animals. Tulsi and Satchen demonstrate the level of love and care we should all have for the planet's wildlife, albeit in the most hair-raising way possible. Jasbinder Bilan doesn't let this slide, however, by showing us the dangers of the elements.

There's some beautiful descriptions of the setting throughout the book and we particularly loved Tulsi and Satchen's friendship. There are also some tender family issues for the characters to deal with, which adds an extra layer to the story. If you're looking for something powerful and enchanting, then this could be one for you.

The most gorgeous lyrical read with an important message about the protection of wildlife today. Another fabulous book from this author.

A really quick read that has a great message about protecting our oceans' wildlife. I love how this was set in Scotland and inspired by an area near where I live. I was able to picture it clearly in my head - helped by Jasbinder's writing!
I would love to read a full length novel (middle grade or other wise) from this author!

In a Nutshell: A brilliant story that combines friendship and love for nature into a powerful, adventurous narrative.

Story Synopsis:
Tulsi and Satchen, best friends, are making the best of their school vacation to go on a moonlight excursion up Craig Hill. While there, they see a strange ripple in the ocean and decide to go there the next day in their boat to investigate. To their surprise, they discover.... (You can guess the rest from the title and cover, and from these clues: whale, net, storm, rescue)
The story comes to us in the first person perspective of Tulsi.

This book contains an impressive story that impacts on the personal as well as social level. It has elements of adventure, environment and thrill.
The story is set in the imaginary location of Craig Hill, which is modelled after the North Berwick hill in Scotland. It makes great use of the setting, with the scenic beauty and the oceanic wonders, and dangers, adding a fabulous atmosphere to the plot.
The most impactful theme of the book is its stress on saving the environment. It highlights several repercussions of human activities on animals and the oceans. When Satchen states, “We can’t wait around for the adults to take action”, I felt pride as well as shame. What kind of a world are we leaving for our kids? We’ve made a mess of it and now they are feeling the pressure of cleaning up behind us. Such kind of books are needed to create more awareness not just among kids but also for adults who still act as if the entire planet is their dump yard.
The adventure that Tulsi and Satchen embarked upon was quite dangerous. That’s why I loved how the book stressed on their safety in two ways: one - by showing how they were well-prepared and attentive before embarking on and during their voyage, and two - by depicting their parents reprimanding them for handling such a dangerous task without adult help. I truly appreciate this point because adventure stories must also highlight the importance of careful and responsible behaviour, and this book does exactly that.
Tulsi and Satchen are both supportive and respectful of each other. I loved how their friendship was based on an equal footing. Their concern for Satchen’s new baby sister, who was born premature, adds a level of poignancy to the proceedings. The best thing is that the kids sound their age, which would about 11-12 years.
Tulsi, as you might have guessed by the name, is a Hindu girl possibly of Indian origin. She isn’t used simply to add diversity to the book, nor is her skin colour or ethnicity dwelled upon. Rather, she is treated as a regular child character, with one scene making use of her heritage to enhance a scene. I loved the way she was written.
Every children’s book benefits with the presence of memorable illustrations, and this one is no exception. I adored the richly detailed B&W illustrations by Skylar White. The story is outstanding on its own, but the illustrations turn the book into a must-have.
There are two notes at the end of the book – one providing facts about humpback whales and one by the author, penning her reasons behind writing this book. Both are worth a read.
The book is written in the Hi-Lo style typical to this publishing house, with the story being aimed at middle graders, but with the reading age being 8 years, thus making the story accessible to a wider audience.
Definitely recommended to every little reader who loves animals and wonders what they can do to save the planet. Remember, no action is ever too small to make a difference.

4.5 stars, happily round up.

My thanks to Barrington Stoke and NetGalley for the DRC of “Calling the Whales”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

Calling the Whales is, like all Barrington Stoke titles I've read, a beautiful and accessible read. I enjoyed the mirroring within the story as Satchen and Tulsi save Angus, allowing him to return to his family, and does the same for them. For a story that covers such a short time span, the stakes were raised well. Also, the illustrations by Skylar White were absolutely gorgeous and added so much. However, it did feel a little flat and unnatural at times (especially with the dialogue) as the need to educate the reader on projecting the planet seemed to supercede the storytelling. At times, Satchen and Tulsi's speech felt a little too scripted for a casual conversation between friends or with family.

Tulsi and Satchen are on a dangerous mission to rescue a whale in this charming short story about courage. They are drawn into protecting something so majestic that they don’t see the dangers to themselves until disaster is in on the horizon.

Bilan has created a tale that will engage & satisfy readers. The luscious illustrations perfectly counterbalance the dramatic story.

Satchen and Tulsi love hanging out together in their small Scottish fishing town. Sneaking out one night to climb the ancient volcanic hill called the Craig, they celebrate their last days of Primary School. Looking out over the dark bay under a night full of stars, they ponder the giant whale jawbone replica they stand beneath. Both avid whale lovers, they have raised hundreds of pounds towards saving them, but know they have to do even more. Maybe being in high school will help?

Satchen has even bigger worries, closer to home. His baby sister has been sick since she was born, and watching and worrying about her getting strong and well never leaves his mind. All they can do is wait. On the way home Tulsi sees something strange on the water, but it's too dark to see. She puts it out of her mind and hurries home, before her mum knows she's gone.

The next day the friends plan to row out to a nearby favourite island. They have done it many times before, but Tulsi's parents are worried. With quick reassurance, Tulsi races out the door to meet Satchen. Sharing the rowing, they are nearly at the island when they hear a strange noise. Could it be coming from the many nesting birds on the island?

Determined to work out the mystery, they begin to search. To their horror they discover a humpback whale - stranded in the waves out from the beach. They are good swimmers, but the choppy waves and the cold water soon take their toll. There is more to this whale stranding. It is caught up in something.

Desperate to help the whale, but suffering from the cold water, now it's not only the whale that's in trouble.


Another great tale from the Dyslexia experts at Barrington Stoke. Calling the Whales begins with friends celebrating finishing Primary School, who quickly become victims of a rescue mission for a whale. This makes for gripping reading woven with environmental themes about looking after the ocean, which in turn can then look after us.

There is a non-fiction section at the rear of the book about Humpback Whales, and also practical, easy ways young people can help the environment. Illustrations are peppered throughout the text, portraying the action and emotions of the characters as they plan to help another creature, but then find themselves in trouble too.

The extra thread of a sick baby sister adds another layer to these children who are growing up, thinking about the world around them and doing the best they can to help.

The setting of this novel (perfect for Dyslexic or reluctant readers) is based on a real seaside town on the East coast of Scotland.

A kind, courageous and environmentally friendly tale. I love the cover too!

Book Review 📚

Calling the Whales by Jasminder Bilan 4.5/5 ⭐

In my profession I am forever trying to find a story/book that I can either use in the curriculum to teach to children or even an enjoyable story I can read to them during quiet time! This book will fit in perfectly for the spring term when our topic is all about Oceans around the world and the animals that inhabit them. It's always a bonus when you randomly come across a book just to see if it's suitable for children, but then to actually be able to use it for a topic!

The story is so touching. I loved the fact that the children wanted to help this poor whale who has been entangled in netting. They put themselves in danger whilst doing so, but to have it that straight forward doesn't really work as much when using the story to teach (so I love that there's some elements of danger). The story is short, the illustrations are beautiful and the writing is phenomenal for children who struggle with long texts and huge chapters. It's exactly what I was looking for without even looking. The author and illustrator have made a fantastic and magical piece of writing that children are sure to love (I know I did). The only reason it got 4.5 ⭐ is because since I started reading for fun (20 years ago) I've only ever given 3 books 5 ⭐!

Thank you to NetGalley and Barrington Stoke for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.

The short story is about some children saving a whale tangled in netting. A good thing. But they put themselves in danger. Nice writing, artwork and editing brings an exciting story to life in a few words and chapters. This book has been written specifically for those that struggle with long texts or complicated words. (Thanks for that aim, successfully met.) But I want to say the story is enjoyable for all types of reader. Thank you to Barrington Stoke publishers and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

I love this book. It has a slow yet peaceful and magical opening. It is a story about a couple of children going out to the sea and coming across a trapped whale.

It is beautifully written without resorting to ornate words. The illustrations are just brilliant.