How to Speak Dolphin

About this book

Lily loves her half-brother, Adam, but she has always struggled with him, too. He's definitely on the autism spectrum -- though her step-father, Don, can barely bring himself to admit it -- and caring for him has forced Lily to become as much mother as sister. All Lily wants is for her step-father to acknowledge that Adam has a real issue, that they need to find some kind of program that can help him. Then maybe she can have a life of her own.

Adam's always loved dolphins, so when Don, an oncologist, hears about a young dolphin with cancer, he offers to help. He brings Lily and Adam along, and Adam and the dolphin -- Nori -- bond instantly.

But though Lily sees how much Adam loves Nori, she also sees that the dolphin shouldn't spend the rest of her life in captivity, away from her family. Can Adam find real help somewhere else? And can Lily help Nori regain her freedom without betraying her family?

Reviews

Praise for How To Speak Dolphin:

"Perfect for readers looking for a book about animals in captivity or tweens making a difference." -- Booklist

"In her newest exploration of animal-human relationships, Rorby's lonely, mature heroine faces tough but realistic situations. Siblings of children on the spectrum will identify with Lily [and] Dolphin lovers will appreciate this look at our complicated relationship with these marine mammals." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Rorby paints a vivid picture of life with a child with autism and the struggles a family can face. This book will raise questions about the ethics of marine life attractions and leave readers rooting for Lily, an appealing narrator." -- School Library Journal


Praise for Hurt Go Happy:

Schneider Family Book Award Winner

"This unusual and emotional story will intrigue animal lovers and those looking for a gripping family drama. The characters are well crafted... The novel is beautifully written and believable." -- Voices of Youth Advocates

Praise for Lost in the River of Grass:

"[An] authentic survival adventure... It's the identity questions as much as the taut rescue story that will resonate with readers." -- Booklist


Praise for Dolphin Sky:

*"Readers will dive right into this affecting first novel... Believable characters, convincingly portrayed relationships, a deeply moving plot and a wealth of intimate details... combine to make this debut a real winner." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review
"[A] distinctive voice and well-developed characterization, a beautifully-evoked setting, and an emotionally satisfying conclusion." -- Kirkus Reviews
"The characters are sensitively drawn... the issue of animal rights is provocatively and emotionally discussed." -- School Library Journal