Following the death of her mother, Lucy finds a sketchbook filled with her mom’s research on sharks. To feel close to her, Lucy decides to continue the project, uncovering secrets about her mom, her town, and the nature of grief itself.
Kate Allen’s “The Line Tender” is a heartfelt middle-grade novel that blends marine science with themes of grief and resilience. Set in the coastal town of Rockport, Massachusetts, the story follows twelve-year-old Lucy, the daughter of a rescue diver and a late marine biologist mother whose shark research left a lasting legacy. When a great white shark is caught near shore, Lucy and her best friend Fred begin documenting marine life for a summer project; a pursuit that connects Lucy to her mother’s work. After a sudden tragedy upends her world, Lucy grapples with loss while piecing together her mother’s unfinished research on sharks, finding solace in community and the mysteries of the ocean.
“The Line Tender” is an excellent choice for fostering awareness of SDG 14: Life Below Water, as it underscores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and human curiosity. Lucy’s journey provides classes with a gateway to discussions about biodiversity, overfishing, and humanity’s role in protecting marine life.
Educators can use the book to explore how scientific inquiry combats ecological challenges, tying in real-world examples like marine sanctuaries or plastic pollution. Lucy’s empathy for others and her introspective processing of grief exemplify being Caring and Reflective. Classroom activities could include analyzing how coastal communities rely on oceans, creating “field guides” for local ecosystems, or partnering with marine conservation groups for action projects.
The story’s emotional core also invites reflective writing prompts about resilience, allowing students to connect Lucy’s growth to their own experiences with adversity. A gem for libraries and classrooms, The Line Tender gently bridges science and heart, inspiring young readers to care deeply about the natural world and their place within it.
