This wonderful tale from Italy has been translated into English. Colorful illustrations appear throughout. They are nothing short of fantastic. Along with the pictures is a story about 8-year-old Hector and his love for the ocean and diving. Young readers new to middle grade will find the plot appealing. The book also makes an excellent read-aloud.

Hector’s family operates a marina that caters to anyone wanting to explore the wonders of the sea. When a dishonest man opens up a new store, he puts the competition out of business. Now the family lives inland, but better times are ahead. A first sea dive with his dad makes Hector a celebrity after he finds the legendary and valuable Pearl. His good fortune doesn’t last long but he must make things right for the good of his family and the ocean he longs for.

Hector’s first person narration takes us through 13 chapters and the voice portrayed is strong. Each chapter has a unique title all beginning with “About.” Examples include “About how a starfish helps me to be brave” and “About why I am, and always will be, a deep sea diver.”

An added bonus is a two page spread of nautical flags and another two pages picturing the parts of a diving suit.

THE SECRET OF THE MAGIC PEARL is a charming and beautiful book.

ELISA SABATINELLI is a writer living in Milan, Italy, and works at a book publisher. She has published several of her own short stories and a novel for adults. This is her first book for children.

IACOPO BRUNO is a graphic designer and award-winning illustrator of numerous books including Sergeant Reckless, by Patrica McCormick which won the Texas Bluebonnet Award. He lives and works in Milan, Italy.

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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration.

All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com

Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book or author you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.

Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)

*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.