Changing Tides

Lula is excited to visit the seaside with her dad - it’s her favourite place!

But something is different... This time, they will be joined by Theo and his mum, two new members of their family. Lula is mistrustful of her new brother. She doesn’t want to share her toys, and she is in a bad mood as they set off for the beach.  

On arrival, Lula runs happily in the waves, but Theo hangs back nervously. It’s only when the children make a sandcastle together that things begin to change. Theo helps Lula design a moat and, as they decorate their creation with shells, Lula realises that having a big brother might not be so bad after all. 

This is a beautiful and moving story about the mixed emotions involved in forming a new family unit. Within the seemingly minimal storyline, Júlia Moscardó manages to pack in a huge range of emotion and tenderness – all seen through Lula’s perspective. 

The illustrations are simply stunning, and they capture everyday details perfectly, with Lula and Theo’s expressions and body language telling a whole story by themselves.

Featuring a newly formed family of mixed heritage, this book will generate meaningful discussions with children about changing family makeups.