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    The Children's Book Review

    52: A Tale of Loneliness, by Johnny DePalma | Dedicated Review

    Bianca SchulzeBy Bianca Schulze3 Mins Read Ages 4-8 Animal Books Picture Books
    52 A Tale of Loneliness by Johnny DePalma Dedicated Review
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    Review of 52: A Tale of Loneliness
    Sponsored* | All opinions are our own
    The Children’s Book Review

    52: A Tale of Loneliness by Johnny DePalma

    52: A Tale of Loneliness

    Written by Johnny DePalma

    Illustrated by Kyle Brown

    Ages 4-8 | 60 Pages

    Publisher: Umbrelly Books Publishing | ISBN-13: 978-1-7334055-0-8

    What to expect: Loneliness, Individuality, Whales, Ocean

    52: A Tale of Loneliness is a poetic picture book inspired by the true story of the 52-hertz whale, a whale of unidentified species who sings at a very unusual frequency of 52 Hz. Deemed the loneliest whale in the world because of its inability to communicate with other whales, author Johnny DePalma and illustrator Kyle Brown have used 52’s story to demonstrate to young readers the importance of embracing their individuality.

    Set in the beautiful ocean, 52 swims from shore to shore, unable to be heard by other whales due to its unique frequency. 52 marvels at the vastness of the ocean and how much one can see and take in when alone, while also hoping to make a friend one day—someone kind, smart, and true like the young reader listening to or reading the story.

    Johnny DePalma tells this peaceful, poignant, timeless story with grace, heart, and rhythm. Kyle Brown’s picturesque artwork uses richly vibrant blues, purples, and greens to create stunning and uplifting visuals that plunge the reader into the underwater world of 52. Together, they have created a story that is sure to inspire a deeper dive into the lives of whales and the mysteries of the ocean.

    52: A Tale of Loneliness demonstrates the importance of a positive outlook and hope, while also connecting readers to the beauty and wonders of the ocean and its inhabitants. A beautiful tale for all ages!

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    Johnny DePalma

    About the Author

    In 2006, Johnny DePalma founded Umbrelly Books Publishing where he continues to grow his personal vision of unique children’s literature. To date, Mr. DePalma has released six books, created one popular, albeit bizarre holiday, and brought home first place from the Bay Area Olympiad of Arts. Recently, he conceived and curated the Emergency Art Museum in his hometown of Campbell, CA.

    For more information, visit johnnydepalma.com

    Kyle Brown

    About the Illustrator

    Kyle Brown began doodling while still in diapers but really formed a passion for illustration after the birth of his two daughters. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area where he continues to learn, develop, and find inspiration for his art. The Night Parade is Mr. Brown’s first venture into children’s book illustration.

    Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This is sponsored* this non-biased review of 52: A Tale of Loneliness, by Johnny DePalma. Learn more about getting a book review …

    What to Read Next:

    1. Speed Interview with Anna Pignataro, Author-Illustrator of The Heart of a Whale
    2. Whale of Wonder, by Marie-Paule Mahoney | Dedicated Review
    3. The Secret Life of Whales, by Rena Ortega | Book Review
    4. B is for Bicycles, by Scott & Jannine Fitzgerald | Dedicated Review

    *Disclosure: Please note that this post may contain affiliate links that share some commission. Rest assured that these will not affect the cost of any products and services promoted here. Our team always provides their authentic opinion in all content published on this site.

    Books About Loneliness Dedicated Review Individuality Johnny DePalma Kyle Brown Ocean Animals Picture Book Umbrelly Books Publishing Whales
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    Bianca Schulze
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    Bianca Schulze is the founder of The Children’s Book Review. She is a reader, reviewer, mother and children’s book lover. She also has a decade’s worth of experience working with children in the great outdoors. Combined with her love of books and experience as a children’s specialist bookseller, the goal is to share her passion for children’s literature to grow readers. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, she now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado.

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