Turtles of the Midnight Moon

05/19/2023

Turtles of the Midnight Moon written by María José Fitzgerald

Barana is a twelve-year-old who lives in a coastal village in Honduras. Her passion is to protect the sea turtles that lay eggs in her coastal village. She has a special connection to one turtle, Luna.

Abby is also twelve, lives in New Jersey, unhappily waiting until the end of the school year. It’s been rough since her best friend moved away.

Summer comes and Abby’s father plans a work trip to Honduras, his homeland. Abby begs to go along with her father. The two travel to Honduras and stay in Barana’s family’s guest house. This sets the stage for the girls to meet.

Barana is named Abby’s tour guide. But she has other plans, someone is stealing turtle eggs and she is determined to catch them. Before long Barana and Abby team together to discover the culprit. This eco-mystery explores the beauty of Honduras, compassion for all living creatures, community, and friendship. It also has a touch of magic with Barana’s uncanny connection to Luna.

This debut novel by María José Fitzgerald has been called, “a glittering gem”, “triumphant and utterly delightful”, and “a call of action to save our earth.” For animals lovers and future activists this is a gem.

Reviewed by Nancy Stetzinger, Penworthy’s Product Manager

Q& A with María José Fitzgerald

Q1: What was your favorite book to read as a child? Or favorite genre?

A1: There weren’t as many opportunities and book options when María was growing up, so she adventured into Junior Encyclopedias and Black Beauty.  

Q2: If you could have dinner with any writer living or dead, who would it be?

A1: Erin Entrada Kelly, EB White, and Aida Salazar

Q3: What did you want to be when growing up? Did you dream of being a writer?

A3: María wanted to be a vet or a marine biologist growing up, but always had a love for writing.

Q4: What was your favorite subject in school? Do you use it in your books to relate to kids?

A4: All subjects! But María really enjoyed language arts – poems, stories, and reading.

Q5: What do you want kids to take away from your book? What message?

A5: That they can make a difference. That they can be agents of positive change and work together – all living creatures are connected.