Books

WINNER - Independent Press Award 2025

Eye of the Turtle

Lucy Morgan Adventure Series (Book 1)

Eye of the Turtle

A Children’s Ocean Adventure About Fear, Friendship, and Finding Courage
Lucy Morgan Adventure Stories • Book 1 • Ages 8–13+

Lucy Morgan is afraid of the ocean.

Which is a problem—because she’s just moved from a London tower block to a tiny Caribbean island surrounded by water.

At eleven years old, Lucy doesn’t swim, doesn’t fit in, and doesn’t understand why anyone would choose to visit a place where danger lurks beneath the surface. The sea feels vast, powerful, and unforgiving—and Lucy wants nothing to do with it.

Then she meets Jack and Solomon.

Drawn into their world of reef exploration and shallow‑water dives, Lucy begins to see the ocean differently—not as something to fear, but as something alive. Beautiful. Vulnerable. And in need of protection.

When the children discover an injured sea turtle, Lucy is faced with a choice that changes everything.

Eye of the Turtle is an adventure rooted in emotion, and discovery of self. The science lives inside the story, revealed through experience and consequence.

In this unforgettable first adventure, readers will encounter:

• A relatable heroine learning that courage isn’t the absence of fear
• Ocean wildlife and marine environments experienced up close
• Friendship and trust built under pressure
• The reality of human impact on the natural world
• The power of small choices to create meaningful change

All shown through Lucy’s actions, setbacks, and growth.  

Written by real‑life ocean explorer and educator Gloria Barnett (known to many UK children as the WeirdFish Lady), Eye of the Turtle combines authentic marine knowledge with a fast‑paced, emotionally grounded story that keeps readers turning pages.

Perfect for ages 8–13+, independent readers, classrooms, and children who love animals, adventure, and stories that feel real.

A story about fear, friendship, and the moment you choose to be brave.