Continuing its book launch series and to kick off the international month-long challenge of “Plastic Free July,” the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is pleased to host a book signing and reading for Makana is a Gift, a new children’s book, written by local award-winning author Janet Lucy and illustrated by Mexican watercolor artist Alexis Cantu. This special community event on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. will take place on the museum’s patio. It will also include a brief discussion about the story, and a family art activity. Cost is free, but space is limited. Registration is required by emailing reservations@sbmm.org or online at: https://sbmm.org/santa-barbara-event/makana-is-a-gift/

About the Book
Makana is a Gift is the story of a little green sea turtle’s quest for identity and purpose, and an all-too-common life-threatening encounter with a plastic bag he mistakes for a jellyfish. Vibrant, life-like watercolor illustrations by Alexis Cantu introduce children to the undersea world and its diverse inhabitants. Through the story, children will learn about the biological beginnings of a sea turtle’s life as well as their ancient legacy, significance, and symbolism as well as the importance of ecological protection. The book also includes a “Discussion and Activities Guide” that explores the story’s themes as well as ways to eliminate plastic consumption. A “Resources” section lists ocean and sea turtle protection organizations worldwide plus more books on the topic for children and adults. Recommended for children ages 4 – 8, the book will inspire people of all ages and is available in both English and bilingual (Spanish-English) versions.

About the Author
Janet Lucy, M.A., is an award-winning writer and poet, who has authored and co-authored numerous books. She is the author of three award-winning children’s books in English and Spanish--The Three Sunflowers/Los Tres Girasoles, Mermaid Dreams/Sueños de Sirena, and Makana is a Gift/Makana es un Regalo. In addition, she is the co-author of Moon Mother, Moon Daughter – Myths and Rituals that Celebrate a Girl’s Coming of Age and the new Moon Circles Facilitator’s Guide and the By the Light of the Moon companion journal. Her most recent publication is the Ukranian-English version of The Three Sunflowers