Into the Mighty Sea

When Mariel’s emotions become a big sea of color, she must learn to sail through or get lost in the swells in Into the Mighty Sea by debut author Arlene Abundis and acclaimed illustrator Cynthia Alonso.

Mariel’s family is a big POP of color! But when her tíos, tías, and cousins arrive for her hermanito’s birthday party, their many besos, noises, and colors start to feel overwhelming. As Mariel’s tears grow into an ocean, she paints a boat to stay afloat and dives into the mighty sea.

When an island calls to her through the swells, she discovers sights, smells, and sounds on its shores that bring back memories of the people she loves the most to guide her back home.

Beautifully illustrated and lyrically written, Into the Mighty Sea is about a girl with big emotions who learns that sometimes taking a step back can be exactly what you need.

"Alonso's impressionistic illustrations swirl with vibrant colors and dreamlike images. Debut author Abundis offers poetic and prescient insight into social anxiety and mental wellness. This picture book will open the door to conversation and understanding." -- Booklist

"A tribute to refugee families, with calmness at the heart of the story. Colorful and lively, yet peaceful, this story offers a glimpse of the hope that follows pain. Beautiful!" -- Margarita Engle, Newbery Honor-winning author of The Surrender Tree and Young People's Poet Laureate Emeritus

"A lyrical, tender, and colorful ode to how a child might navigate a sea of overwhelm using art, family, and courage to heal." -- Aida Salazar, author of the Caldecott Honor book, Jovita Wore Pants

Arlene Abundis is a Cuban American author whose work honors resilience through mental and emotional health. She has struggled with social anxiety and post-traumatic stress for over two decades. A former preschool teacher, she lives nestled with her husband and three children between the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains in California. Pastelitos that drip guava jelly, gardens, and library adventures with her kids calm the swirling thoughts of her mind.

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