Soft Shell - Teddy the Talking Turtle

INTRODUCTION

TEDDY THE TALKIN TURTLE!

Meet Teddy, a sea turtle with a unique and magical gift—the ability to speak. Teddy lives in the picturesque Navarre Marine Sanctuary, a vibrant underwater haven filled with diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs off the Florida Gulf coast. Teddy’s new best friend, Mia, is a curious and spirited young teen with a deep love for the ocean.

This all started with my trip to the Navarre Marine Sanctuary last fall. I have been a waterman since my teens when I became PADI SCUBA certified. My first visit had me see three turtles, many crabs, fish and one big shark! It was and is awesome and I visit my underwater friends all the time now.

I had 4 goals in telling this tale; First, increase awareness of the Sanctuary, second, marine conservation and respect for ocean Life. Next to foster curiosity and learning and the value of curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge. I also wanted to highlight Teamwork and the community. I hope this story shows how working together and involving the community can lead to meaningful change that can make a difference for all.

Lastly I hope this helps the young teen reader develop the courage to face today's challenges with the courage required to overcome the obstacles in preserving the Gulf of Mexico while at the same time providing for America's energy needs. We have treated the Gulf as America's sewer for to long now.

Geared toward young adults I believe this is a book that'll help them see our oceans more fully while parents and teachers will also appreciate the educational value and its ability to inspire. I hope it provides a perfect opportunity for discussions about marine conservation, the importance of biodiversity, and the ways in which everyone can contribute to protecting our oceans and ultimately, the planet.

I hope you find 'Soft Shell-Teddy the Talking Turtle' a heartwarming and impactful story that blends adventure, friendship, and environmental advocacy. Through the engaging semi-fictional tale of turtle Teddy and teenager Mia, readers will be inspired to cherish and protect the underwater world, making this book an invaluable addition to your child’s library.

See you on or in the water!

Tom

Fall 2024

CHAPTER ONE

HEART OF THE OCEAN

LEGENDARY LOCAL MAGIC

In the depths of the Navarre Marine Sanctuary, on Florida's 'Emerald Coast' in the Panhandle the legends speak of the magical powers of the Gulf,. Whispered among its inhabitants and locals for generations, according to these tales, every hundred years, during a rare 'super-moon', the ocean would bestow a special gift upon only one of its creatures. During such a night Teddy the Sea Turtle was born in the newly created sanctuary.

The full moon that illuminated the Navarre Marine Sanctuary that night was unlike any other its light casting a mystical glow. Ancient sea creatures, who had seen countless moons rise and fall, sensed that this night was special. Whales sang haunting melodies, and schools of fish shimmered in synchronized patterns, celebrating the celestial event. In a small cave hidden underwater and known to only a few as the 'Heart of the Ocean' a cluster of sea turtle eggs was nestled in the sand. Rare because turtles bury their eggs on the beach.

When Teddy hatched, the moon’s light enveloped him, and he felt a strange sensation—a surge of energy and awareness. As he made his way to the surface, he found himself understanding the clicks and whistles of dolphins, the low hums of whales, and the chattering of fish. However it wasn’t until he grew older that he realized he could do something no other turtle could: speak a language both humans and sea creatures could understand!

Teddy kept his gift a secret for many years, using it only to communicate with other marine animals. He listened to their stories, learned about their lives, and understood the challenges they faced. He became a solider of sorts, helping creatures in distress and guiding lost ones back to their homes. The sea creatures revered him for his wisdom.

As the years passed, Teddy saw the growing impact of human activities on the Gulf–from more Condos on the shore to run off from development. He witnessed the destruction of coral reefs, the entanglement of animals in fishing nets, and the pollution that tainted the once-pristine waters. Teddy truly believed that his gift could help bridge the gap between humans and marine life, fostering more understanding and cooperation.

When the Navarre Marine Sanctuary was established in 2010, Teddy sensed that the time had come to reveal his secret. The sanctuary attracts scientists, researchers and curious visitors who care deeply about the Gulf. It was here that he encountered Mia, a young girl in her early teens with a boundless curiosity and a growing connection to the sea.

One day, as Mia swam and snorkeled the sanctuary reefs, she found herself face-to-face with a sea turtle. In a moment of true spontaneity, Teddy spoke. Helllllllllo there, he said, slowly, his voice low, gentle and wise beyond his young years.

Mia’s reaction was initial shock followed by a deep sense of wonder. He saw in her the potential to be a powerful advocate for the Gulf. With Mia as his ally, Teddy, in broken English, began to share his knowledge and stories, teaching her about the delicate