JEWELS OF THE SEA… The Hunt For Floating Treasure tells the magical tale of Amy and Bart who go on a treasure hunt with their grandfather. The second half of the book is packed with leading-edge science all about diatoms, nicknamed the ‘jewels of the sea’ because of their breathtaking beauty. Diatoms are also priceless for what they do for life on earth. Sheean Haley, Senior Staff Associate III of Biology and Paleo Environment at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory was the chief consultant for the book.

“I can’t tell you how many adults are amazed at what they learn,” says Franco-Feeney. “This is definitely one of those picture books that is not just for kids.”

Franco-Feeney is passionate about presenting real science to children in a creative way, referring to her books as ‘edutainment’. Releasing her book on Earth Day brings attention to the fragile state of the natural world. A fervent recycler, composter and hybrid driver, she believes parents need to lead by example. Franco-Feeney wants to help the next generation weather the increasing challenges of climate change. “With my books, I am planting seeds to grow a scientist or two. I hope to peek children’s curiosity of nature, to explore it and respect it.”

Learning about the environment is part of STEM education (science, technology, engineering and math). It is emphasized in most schools and when it is introduced with art as in picture books, you create STEAM.

CHOSEN BY KIRKUS MAGAZINE AS ONE OF ITS “GREAT INDIE BOOKS WORTH DISCOVERING”  

“The world’s oceans and freshwater environments teem with beneficial microscopic organisms called diatoms. In Franco-Feeney’s well-conceived work, sure to spark a sense of discovery, grade school–age readers are introduced to these creatures and to the essential roles they play in the aquatic food chain, medicine, biomedical research, industry, and the very health of the planet.”  (Read Full Review)

–Kirkus Reviews

“…diatoms are the most important organism people have never heard of. This book will take the reader on a whimsical adventure into the microscopic world of diatoms that highlights their importance in the world.”

– Victoria Chraibi, PhD, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, Tarleton State University

“…a phenomenal job of taking the microscopic world of diatoms to a macroscopic scale, giving readers an appreciation for their beauty and significance. The combination of imagination and reality takes us on an unforgettable treasure hunt. Come get immersed in this delightful exploration!”

– Shelly Wu, Science Educator, K-12, Texas Christian University

“…this book does a wonderful job of explaining what diatoms are and why they are important in common English. It is a true gift to be able to do that. …books like this are especially important as children increasingly have so few chances to experience nature first-hand. I look forward to the actual invention of micro-goggles!”

– Dr. Edward C Theriot, Professor, Director, Department of Integrative Biology, Texas Memorial Museum