Charlie calls out that the nest is clear, and the group gathers together to watch the last couple of babies make it to the water. Before long, they are all gone. It only took about fifteen minutes, but it was definitely one of the best moments in Morgan’s life.
Morgan knows from her book on sea turtles that no one really knows what happens to the babies once they leave the area until they are grown up. She also knows that there are more predators waiting for them in the water. But she can’t help but feel happy about giving them a better chance at growing up by protecting them on the beach. Since the nests will hatch through September, Morgan can’t wait to keep coming back every week. She knows that she won’t get to see another hatching every time, but she wants to make sure that she is there to be a superhero for the sea turtles every chance she can get.
As they walk back towards the parking lot, Morgan thinks about how much has changed in the past month. She still misses her home in Phoenix and really misses Sara. But when she thinks about how much fun she has had at camp and protecting the baby sea turtles, she realizes that this move to Georgia hasn’t been all bad. She’s even made a couple of friends, although she won’t see some of them, like Robbie and Ruby, as much as others. She knows that Claire will be in her class at school, which makes her less nervous about her new school. She’s not mad at her parents anymore. She might even end up happy living in her new city.
About the Author
Author Tara V. Thompson has lived all over the South, which serves as an inspiration for her writings. As a kid, her first love was science—one that is shared by her character, Morgan. She currently lives in Savannah, Georgia with her family and two cats.
About the Illustrator
Candace grew up in a creative family, inspired by flora, fauna, and the Victorian era. She works away among books, antiques, and woodland findings in mixed media and watercolors on paper. She lives currently on the outskirts of Salt Lake City in a 1920s Tudor with her son, boyfriend, and armful of animal companions.
Morgan Otter Saves the Sea Turtles Page 5
