Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "ocean"

Hello, lovers of the sun, sea, and sand!

My latest creation is a poetic voyage that captures the essence of a day spent by the ocean's edge. "Barefoot at the Beach" invites you to shed your shoes, along with your worries, and step into a world where the boundaries between the self and the sea blur into one harmonious existence.

Imagine feeling the sun's warmth as it dances across the sky, the playful tickle of sand between your toes, and the soothing rhythm of waves that whisper tales of timeless ebb and flow. Through a series of vivid, free-form poems, we'll explore the simple pleasures and profound moments that a day at the beach can offer—from the first golden rays of sunrise to the rich hues of the setting sun.

So, grab your favorite beach chair and a cool beverage, and prepare to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the poetry of the beach. Let's celebrate the beauty of being present, living in the moment, and finding peace in the natural world around us.

See you at the beach,
Samuel DenHartog

Imagine a world where humanity’s absence has given rise to a civilization unlike anything we could have foreseen. The oceans, once witnesses to the rise and fall of human dominance, have become the cradle of a new era. From the ashes of our self-destruction, life beneath the waves has adapted, evolved, and flourished in ways that defy imagination. It is a setting where the intelligence of nature finds its ultimate expression, offering a glimpse into a future filled with both wonder and mystery.

This is the heart of the story in “Octopus Earth,” told entirely from the first-person perspective of an octopus named Mira. This immersive narrative pulls readers into the mind of a creature whose species has transcended its solitary existence to become the architects of a vibrant undersea society. Through Mira’s eyes, readers witness glowing cities constructed from coral and stone, tools crafted from the remnants of humanity’s legacy, and even ventures onto land using innovative breathing technology. It’s a story of resilience, cooperation, and the relentless drive to explore, survive, and thrive in a transformed Earth.

Grounded in evolutionary science and inspired by speculative wonder, the tale explores how the forces of nature can shape not only ecosystems but also complex societies. Mira’s journey from birth to explorer to leader, and her reflections on the interconnectedness of life, make the story both thought-provoking and emotionally rich. Through her, the octopuses’ transition from problem-solvers to oceanic rulers feels as believable as it is awe-inspiring.

For readers who enjoy tales that blend science and imagination, “Octopus Earth” offers a unique perspective on what might come after humanity. It invites us to reflect on the legacy we leave behind and the enduring adaptability of life. Dive into a world both familiar and utterly alien, where the tides of evolution have forged a future none could have predicted.

There’s something special about the quiet moment before bedtime—the soft light, the cozy blanket, and the familiar rhythm of a good story. It’s a time when children’s imaginations open wide, ready to welcome talking animals, glowing treasures, and magical mischief. That’s where this collection of turtle tales comes in. Each story is short enough for a sleepy listener, yet rich with whimsy, laughter, and the kinds of gentle adventures that stick with a child long after the lights go out.

The stories in Nighty Night Turtle Tales follow turtles who build sandcastles, take tea with giants, and even hop aboard story-powered boats. These are tiny journeys filled with wonder and delight. Some are peaceful and calming, like moonlit strolls or perfect sunbathing spots. Others are full of energy and imagination, like karate showdowns, underwater hair salons, or compost pile treasure hunts. Every tale is unique, and every turtle brings something a little different to the page.

What makes this book so enjoyable is how it speaks to a child’s sense of play without ever talking down to them. The language is simple but vivid, the plots are silly but satisfying, and the tone strikes that perfect balance between funny and gentle. Whether read by a grown-up or explored independently by early readers, these stories are a doorway to a world where anything is possible—especially if you believe in turtles who like to throw tea parties or race down rivers on homemade rafts.

At its heart, the book is about friendship, curiosity, and the joy of small things. It celebrates quiet courage and imaginative thinking, offering children a world that’s cozy, kind, and always a little surprising. For families looking to add something truly delightful to their storytime routine, Nighty Night Turtle Tales is the perfect shell to slip into.