Oona

Oona and her best friend Otto love to search for treasure…and often find trouble instead.

Messy trouble.

Tricky trouble.

Even shark-related trouble.

That’s never stopped them before, though!

After all, no proper treasure hunt is without some adventure. But when the grandest treasure yet is stuck in a deep, dark rift, Oona’s not sure if she can dive right in. What might be waiting for her in those unknown waters?

New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and illustrator Raissa Figueroa would like to introduce Oona—the big wide sea’s littlest mischief-maker.  

Kelly DiPucchio is the New York Times bestselling author of many beloved books for children, including Grace for President, Dragon Was Terrible, and Oona, illustrated by Raissa Figueroa. As a little girl Kelly wanted a pet otter but settled for a pet goat instead. When she’s not writing, Kelly loves to search for treasure and mermaids in Michigan’s Great Lakes.

Raissa Figueroa loves walking the beaches in search of tiny treasures of her own. She lives and works in sunny San Diego, CA. She’s the illustrator for several children’s books, including Oona, written by Kelly DiPucchio.

“This title celebrates independence, self-confidence, and bravery to try the new even after defeat as Oona becomes aware of the true treasure in her personal effort.” - School Library Journal (starred review)

"Oona is an adorable protagonist, with her dark skin, enormous Afro, and striped, orange tail. With her ups and downs and her fundamental ebullience, she will easily win fans... [T]he messages of persistence and of valuing the work of one’s own creation are strong and effective. A small heroine young readers will be happy to meet."  - Kirkus Reviews

"Oona is undeniably adorable, and her pal Otto is similarly charming. The playful humor is, like Oona herself, “sweet . . . and a little bit salty,” bringing together gentleness with just a dash of sass. Disney kids will recognize the book’s many nods to The Little Mermaid and appreciate its attempts to diversify the underwater world. "  - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books