by Tim Winton
First published 2004
Alice makes her home beside the ocean, where snakes and spiders pose no threat to her brave spirit. The deep blue waters beyond the shallows tell a different story. While her family dives and splashes in the deeper parts of the sea, Alice remains trapped in the shallow green water near shore. Her relatives call to her, encouraging her to join their aquatic games and adventures. Alice wants to overcome what holds her back. She makes attempts to venture beyond her safe zone, but the deep water continues to defeat her efforts. The story follows Alice as she struggles against the fear that keeps her from joining her loved ones. Her journey toward courage unfolds against the backdrop of sun-drenched waters and the patient encouragement of family members who understand her battle.
Genres: literary-fiction, family-life, adventure
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, thought-provoking
Tropes: family-encouragement, overcoming-fears
Setting: Ocean
32 pages · Hardcover · Tricycle Press