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42 pages 1 hour read

Lalani of the Distant Sea

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Erin Entrada Kelly

Lalani of the Distant Sea

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sanlagita • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

600L

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Super Short Summary

In Lalani of the Distant Sea, a 12-year-old girl named Lalani Sarita embarks on a perilous journey across the Veiled Sea to find a mythical flower on Mount Isa to cure her mother and bring prosperity to her oppressed island of Sanlagita. Along the way, she faces monsters, encounters deceptive characters, and ultimately discovers her own strength and courage. The narrative explores themes of bravery, compassion, and the significance found in the smallest of individuals or actions.

Adventurous

Mysterious

Fantastical

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

3,803 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Erin Entrada Kelly's Lalani of the Distant Sea has been praised for its lush, poetic prose and rich, imaginative world-building reminiscent of folklore. Reviewers appreciate its strong, determined heroine and depth of cultural inspiration. However, some find the pacing uneven and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it's a captivating, heartfelt story suitable for middle-grade readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lalani of the Distant Sea?

Readers who enjoy Lalani of the Distant Sea by Erin Entrada Kelly are typically fans of rich, culturally-inspired fantasy. Similar to those who love Grace Lin's Where the Mountain Meets the Moon and Kelly Barnhill's The Girl Who Drank the Moon, they appreciate strong heroines, mythology, and enchanting adventures.

4.2

3,803 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Lalani Sarita

A compassionate 12-year-old girl on a quest to find a legendary flower to cure her mother, highlighting her determination despite societal challenges.

A banished thief from the island of Isa, recognizable by his horns and driven by greed, who poses a threat to Lalani on her journey.

A powerful guardian of the islands of Sanlagita and Isa, appearing as a small girl, tasked with maintaining balance and wary of humans.

The guardian of the Veiled Sea, with the appearance of a woman-faced eel, known for drowning those who attempt to reach Isa.

A resilient teenage mindoren filled with a desire for vengeance after the tragic death of her mother, who becomes Lalani's ally.

A formidable nine-foot-tall bird of prey, deeply affected by the loss of her sister and determined to avenge her.

Lalani’s best friend, known for her healing abilities and dedication to studying plants, who guides Lalani in finding a cure for her mother.

Veyda's younger brother, who struggles with confidence and navigates the traditional expectations of Sanlagita’s male professions.

Lalani’s caring mother, who suffers from a dangerous disease, motivating Lalani's journey to find a cure.

Lalani’s harsh stepfather, characterized by his temper and authoritarian demeanor, exerting control over the village.

Drum’s son, an intimidating figure who follows in his father's footsteps, bullying the younger villagers.

The authoritative village leader who oversees work and resources but lacks genuine healing power or concern for others’ well-being.

A handsome, kind 12-year-old who stands apart from his peers by respecting and supporting Lalani.

A concerned father who values Lalani's gentle nature and promotes community involvement in leadership decisions.

The misunderstood ghost of a drowned stowaway, who ultimately aids Lalani with her compassionate spirit.

A divine creator responsible for the islands and their guardians, emphasizing the value of compassion in her creations.

The gentle schoolmaster who mentors those like Hetsbi, encouraging them to embrace courage and self-improvement.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sanlagita • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

600L

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