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Sora's Seashells
Every summer, when Sora’s Halmoni, or grandmother, visits from South Korea, the two of them take the bus to the beach to search for seashells. While Sora likes to take all of them back with her, Halmoni always leaves the prettiest shell for someone else to find and treasure. As summer turns to fall, Halmoni returns home and Sora starts kindergarten, where some of the kids tease her about her “weird” name. One day, Sora’s parents receive a sad call about her grandmother, and Sora feels more lost than ever about who she is and how she fits in. But when her parents reveal the origin of her name, Sora channels a newfound pride and, inspired by Halmoni, combats her peers’ hurtful comments by sharing her shells with everyone in her class.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2023
1 person is currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Helena Ku Rhee
8 books30 followersHelena Ku Rhee is a children’s book author & essayist based in Los Angeles. Her picture books include SORA'S SEASHELLS (illustrated by Stella Lim & Ji-Hyuk Kim), ROSA'S SONG (illustrated by Pascal Campion) and its companion book THE PAPER KINGDOM (also illustrated by Pascal Campion), which landed on many Best of 2020 lists, including NPR, BookPage, Parents Magazine, Kirkus, the Los Angeles Public Library, Amazon, and more.
Helena also wrote THE TURTLE SHIP (illustrated by Colleen Kong-Savage) as well as essays for publications such as the Los Angeles Times and Salon.
Listen to her 6-minute interview on NPR: https://www.npr.org/2020/03/14/815250...
Helena wrote the popular article for Salon, "Making sense of a senseless world: how children's books can mitigate the horror around us" -- https://www.salon.com/2022/06/14/maki...
Visit Helena at: http://helenakrhee.com/
Helena also wrote THE TURTLE SHIP (illustrated by Colleen Kong-Savage) as well as essays for publications such as the Los Angeles Times and Salon.
Listen to her 6-minute interview on NPR: https://www.npr.org/2020/03/14/815250...
Helena wrote the popular article for Salon, "Making sense of a senseless world: how children's books can mitigate the horror around us" -- https://www.salon.com/2022/06/14/maki...
Visit Helena at: http://helenakrhee.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 2, 2024
This is a touching picture book about loss and loving who you are. The illustrations are lovely and nostalgic.
July 20, 2023
Sora and her Halmoni always go to the beach and collect shells whenever Halmoni visits. Sora takes all her shells home, but Halmoni leaves one on a bench as a gift. Sora doesn't understand until after sad news about Halmoni comes and her parents reveal where they got her name, which gives Sora the courage to address the kids at school who tease her about her name.
I like how kindness and deeper understanding win the day in this story. It's bittersweet, but beautiful in sentiment and illustrations.
I like how kindness and deeper understanding win the day in this story. It's bittersweet, but beautiful in sentiment and illustrations.
June 23, 2023
I’m not crying; you’re crying 😢. Beautiful book to start the year for building community and understanding the importance of our names.
August 9, 2023
Copy provided by Young Adult Books Central
When Sora's grandmother visits inthe summer, the two spend a lot of time at the beach, searching for seashells, but Sora doesn't understand when Halmoni leaves a particularly nice shell on a bus bench instead of taking it home. In response, Sora starts hiding shells in her pocket and saves them at home. When school starts kindergarten, one of the boys says that her name is weird, saying that it should be Sara. This goes on for weeks, and she doesn't tell her parents until she gets the terrible news that Halmoni has passed away. This unleashes her sadness, and she tells her parents she wishes her name were Sara. Her parents take her to the beach, where they show her a seashell and tell her that her name means "seashell" in Korean. She was named that because her grandmother said that finding a perfect shell is like a gift, and Sora is her parents' greatest gift. At show and tell, Sora relates this stroy to her classmates, and gives each of them a seashell, including the boy who teased her. Her classmates tell her that her name makes more sense now, and Sora has another good memory of her grandmother to help her through her tough times.
Lim and Kim's artwork in this is gorgeous, especially the beach scenes. I also loved the children's faces, and there is an array of cultural representation. While Sora's mother is Korean, her father has red hair. The watercolors give a dreamy, introspective feel to the story, and remind me of several books from my childhood.
Children often don't understand how much thought goes into their names, and need to understand that there are many different kinds of names in the world. From Henkes' Chrysanthemum to Martinez-Neal How Alma Got Her Name, picture books about the importance of understanding names that might seem a bit different are important for young readers so that experiences like Sora's are not repeated.
When Sora's grandmother visits inthe summer, the two spend a lot of time at the beach, searching for seashells, but Sora doesn't understand when Halmoni leaves a particularly nice shell on a bus bench instead of taking it home. In response, Sora starts hiding shells in her pocket and saves them at home. When school starts kindergarten, one of the boys says that her name is weird, saying that it should be Sara. This goes on for weeks, and she doesn't tell her parents until she gets the terrible news that Halmoni has passed away. This unleashes her sadness, and she tells her parents she wishes her name were Sara. Her parents take her to the beach, where they show her a seashell and tell her that her name means "seashell" in Korean. She was named that because her grandmother said that finding a perfect shell is like a gift, and Sora is her parents' greatest gift. At show and tell, Sora relates this stroy to her classmates, and gives each of them a seashell, including the boy who teased her. Her classmates tell her that her name makes more sense now, and Sora has another good memory of her grandmother to help her through her tough times.
Lim and Kim's artwork in this is gorgeous, especially the beach scenes. I also loved the children's faces, and there is an array of cultural representation. While Sora's mother is Korean, her father has red hair. The watercolors give a dreamy, introspective feel to the story, and remind me of several books from my childhood.
Children often don't understand how much thought goes into their names, and need to understand that there are many different kinds of names in the world. From Henkes' Chrysanthemum to Martinez-Neal How Alma Got Her Name, picture books about the importance of understanding names that might seem a bit different are important for young readers so that experiences like Sora's are not repeated.
October 4, 2024
When Sora's grandmother visits from South Korea, they take the bus to the beach to look for seashells. She teaches Sora the beauty of giving them as gifts even when Sora does not want to share.
Summer ends and Sora starts kindergarten, and her grandmother goes back home but things don't go well as some of the kids tease her about her "different" name and then her grandmother passes away. Sora learns the true meaning of her name and finds a way to connect with all the children in her class with her gifts of a seashell for everyone.
This story is a beautiful way to introduce the emotional concept of belonging to young children. Everyone has something about them that might make them feel different and Sora learning to understand her difference is done with the young audience in mind and is a beautiful book to read with a child. The watercolor illustrations which were finished digitally provide a soft and comforting feeling to the rawer emotions of the story. There are also concepts of grief, bullying, and understanding of how names are given with special meaning.
The book would be best for ages 4-8 and could even be read to middle grade students for discussion.
I would highly recommend this book for purchase by public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
Summer ends and Sora starts kindergarten, and her grandmother goes back home but things don't go well as some of the kids tease her about her "different" name and then her grandmother passes away. Sora learns the true meaning of her name and finds a way to connect with all the children in her class with her gifts of a seashell for everyone.
This story is a beautiful way to introduce the emotional concept of belonging to young children. Everyone has something about them that might make them feel different and Sora learning to understand her difference is done with the young audience in mind and is a beautiful book to read with a child. The watercolor illustrations which were finished digitally provide a soft and comforting feeling to the rawer emotions of the story. There are also concepts of grief, bullying, and understanding of how names are given with special meaning.
The book would be best for ages 4-8 and could even be read to middle grade students for discussion.
I would highly recommend this book for purchase by public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
April 21, 2023
There are many layers to this beautiful picture book that I think will make this narrative a memorable one for young children. The book deals with loss and grief of a loved one in such a meaningful way. After her grandmother's passing, Sora is able to find new meaning in a special activity she did with her grandmother (combing for seashells at the beach). In addition to this grief, Sora is dealing with some bullying at school from children who think her name is weird. There are so many feelings here and I want to also mention that the illustrations do such an amazing job capturing Sora's emotions throughout the book. Eventually, Sora learns that her name means "seashell" in Korean -- her grandmother told her parents that would be a good name for her because she is a gift just like the perfect seashell. Sora then shares this story/background with her class at school and the children come to realize they were wrong to make fun of her name.
The whole effect is a nice way to give children an example of how one might honor a loved one and process grief, but also how acts of kindness and vulnerability connect us as humans.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Candlewick. Opinions are my own.
The whole effect is a nice way to give children an example of how one might honor a loved one and process grief, but also how acts of kindness and vulnerability connect us as humans.
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Candlewick. Opinions are my own.
September 4, 2023
Every summer, Sora’s grandmother comes to visit her from far away. They go to the beach to find the prettiest shells. Sora is surprised when her grandmother leaves the prettiest shell on a bench for someone else to find. When summer is over, Sora starts kindergarten but finds herself a target for bullies because of her name. When Sora and her parents receive sad news about her grandmother, Sora decides to honor her in the best way.
One of my favorite children’s books of 2022 was Helena Ku Rhee’s book, ROSA’S SONG. She seems to understand children’s feelings and knows how to heal broken hearts with her evocative stories. A children’s relationship with a grandparent is special and Sora’s sadness is overwhelming at first, but a trip to the beach with her parents gives Sora the perfect idea for sharing her grandmother with others.
The side story of Sora struggling to fit in at her school offers guidance for other kids who feel left out or different. Themes of grief, feeling different, generosity, and kindness will resonate with kids and adults and this book is a definite winner for me.
One of my favorite children’s books of 2022 was Helena Ku Rhee’s book, ROSA’S SONG. She seems to understand children’s feelings and knows how to heal broken hearts with her evocative stories. A children’s relationship with a grandparent is special and Sora’s sadness is overwhelming at first, but a trip to the beach with her parents gives Sora the perfect idea for sharing her grandmother with others.
The side story of Sora struggling to fit in at her school offers guidance for other kids who feel left out or different. Themes of grief, feeling different, generosity, and kindness will resonate with kids and adults and this book is a definite winner for me.
February 22, 2024
The positives of this title for me were learning the Korean word for grandmother, Halmoni, learning the Korean word for seashell is Dora, viewing the illustration of the hands holding seashells and and also enjoying the shades of blue used in the illustration depicting Sora in her bedroom.
The negatives were basically I was definitely expecting a story focused on shells and the neath, not the loss of a grandmother or Sora being teased at school. While I liked parts of the illustrations those done parts done in watercolor, but there was also a dislike in the illustrations. Definitely it was they were finished digitally and hence the fave and eyes of the characters.
I continue to puzzle over the two illustrators listed on the jacket flap Then there is the comment from the first illustrator saying she based her work for this title on the sketches of the other illustrator. Confusing!
The negatives were basically I was definitely expecting a story focused on shells and the neath, not the loss of a grandmother or Sora being teased at school. While I liked parts of the illustrations those done parts done in watercolor, but there was also a dislike in the illustrations. Definitely it was they were finished digitally and hence the fave and eyes of the characters.
I continue to puzzle over the two illustrators listed on the jacket flap Then there is the comment from the first illustrator saying she based her work for this title on the sketches of the other illustrator. Confusing!
April 14, 2025
Soras Seashells by Helena Ku Rhee is a touching story that explores themes of grief, identity, and intergenerational connection through a young girls relationship with her grandmother and the ocean. The narrative subtly address the immigrant experience, blending Korean cultrual elements with universal emotions of loss and healing. Rhee uses the seashells as a powerful symbol of memory and resilience connecting Soora to her heritage and her grandmothers wisdom. The illustrations by Stella Lim reinforces the story's emotional depth with soft, ocean inspried visuals that echo the storys tone of reflection and hope. Overall, the book offers a gentle yet meaningful way for children to understand how love and memories live on making it a valuable resource for social-emtional learning and cultural appreciation.
April 21, 2023
Every summer, when Sora’s grandmother visits from South Korea, the two of them take the bus to the beach to search for seashells. While Sora likes to take all of them back with her, Halmoni always leaves the prettiest shell for someone else to find and treasure. As summer turns to fall, Halmoni returns home and Sora starts kindergarten, where some of the kids tease her about her “weird” name. One day, Sora’s parents receive a sad call about her grandmother, and Sora feels more lost than ever about who she is and how she fits in. But when her parents reveal the origin of her name, Sora channels a newfound pride and, inspired by Halmoni, combats her peers’ hurtful comments by sharing her shells with everyone in her class. In her grief, Sora child finds new meaning in a cherished activity.
May 10, 2023
This heartwarming story is about a young girl named Sora who finds solace in collecting seashells after losing her beloved grandmother. Sora's world is turned upside down, but her kind and generous spirit leads her to form new connections with others and ultimately find a way to honor her grandmother's memory.
Not only is "Sora's Seashells" beautifully illustrated, but it also highlights the power of kindness and generosity, making it a wonderful book to share with young readers. 💕 It delicately addresses the theme of loss, making it a great tool for parents and caregivers to initiate discussions with children about grief and coping mechanisms.
Thank you to Candlewick Press for a gifted copy in exchange for a honest review!
Not only is "Sora's Seashells" beautifully illustrated, but it also highlights the power of kindness and generosity, making it a wonderful book to share with young readers. 💕 It delicately addresses the theme of loss, making it a great tool for parents and caregivers to initiate discussions with children about grief and coping mechanisms.
Thank you to Candlewick Press for a gifted copy in exchange for a honest review!
September 28, 2024
Five-year-old Sora loves collecting seashells with her grandmother but she's confused when he grandmother leaves them on a bench for others to find. Once school starts, Sora is teased by some of her classmates about her odd-sounding name. When her grandmother dies, Sora breaks down in grief and frustration over the teasing she's been getting at school. Her parents then explain to her that Sora means seashell in Korean and it was her grandmother who named her because she was a precious gift, like the shells they collected at the beach. Later, Sora brings a jar of shells to school for show and tell and explains the story of her name. She then gives everyone a shell, even those who tease her, who now appreciate the significance of her name.
November 30, 2023
This picture book has a powerful story and marvelous illustrations. The story portrays a little girl's relationship with her grandmother and their shared love of seashells, and also explores the child's feelings about her name and dynamics at school. The story is sensitive and thoughtful, and both the writing and the pictures are extraordinarily well-crafted.
Because the plot hinges on the grandmother's death, some children won't be ready for this, and parents should be aware of that aspect of the story. Nonethless, the book is incredibly powerful, beautiful, and touching.
Because the plot hinges on the grandmother's death, some children won't be ready for this, and parents should be aware of that aspect of the story. Nonethless, the book is incredibly powerful, beautiful, and touching.
March 15, 2024
Like other East Asian countries, South Koreans give their children names with meaning. This not only gives the name meaning, but also the love of the person who named the child. Sora will now be able to feel her grandmother's love forever, as long as she doesn't give up her name. Even if she can't see her grandmother anymore. This is exactly the kind of strength Sora needs when she's too introverted to tell her mom and dad about being bullied in kindergarten.
The text and illustrations are serene and peaceful in their message.
The text and illustrations are serene and peaceful in their message.
May 9, 2023
SORA'S SEASHELLS is as much a story of a little girl who loves to collect shells at the beach with her grandmother in the summer when she visits from South Korea. Rhee has carefully woven together a story about their relationship, loss of a grandparent, the joy of giving, and a small glimpse into what it feels like to be a minority in an American classroom. The layers are thoughtfully intertwined and emphasized by the luminous watercolor artwork. A wonderful story about loss and kindness.
March 25, 2024
This is one of those books that packs a lot in within a short amount of pages. This includes exploring a child's relationship to their grandmother who lives overseas, bullying because of one's name, the loss of said grandmother, and grief. It's a skillfully written and engaging picture book which came in handy as my own kids process the loss of their great grandfather.
June 17, 2023
Through lyrical text and beautiful illustrations we learn a story about sharing the beauty found on the seashore, the meaning of a name, the grief and loss of losing a grandmother, and honoring them through the lessons they taught.
July 12, 2023
Powerful. I've read two picture books this year that I think should be considered by Newbery. This is one of them. The text stands up on it's own as a great story. The pictures are an enhancement.
October 10, 2023
A story of how little Sora adjusts to life at school with the gift of seashells, which her grandmother gave to her. Grief, love and beauty is covered in this beautiful book with breathtaking watercolor and digital illustrations.
May 26, 2023
This book really touched me. I have so many students with unusual names and I try my best every year to make sure I pronounce their names correctly.
June 11, 2023
4.5 stars
Beautiful intergenerational story about gifts and the beauty of them.
Beautiful intergenerational story about gifts and the beauty of them.
July 19, 2023
Wonderful little story with precious illustrations and a great message. Any picture book that moves me to tears gets a 5-star review. Bravo.
July 29, 2023
A tender name story to be added to the list of MUSTs for read alouds.
July 31, 2023
Themes:
Immigrant (Korean)/mixed race family. Meaning of Names. Grief/Loss of loved one (grandmother/Halmoni). Kindness.
Immigrant (Korean)/mixed race family. Meaning of Names. Grief/Loss of loved one (grandmother/Halmoni). Kindness.
March 14, 2024
Beautifully written, lovely illustrations and such a warm wonderful story.
September 19, 2024
I loved the touching story and the illustrations. Highly recommend.
July 28, 2025
A beautiful, poignant story about grief and loss and appreciating things that are beautiful.
December 14, 2025
Sweet and simple book on both embracing who we are (specifically our names) and touching ever so slightly on the grief of losing a loved one.
Very sweet art.
Very sweet art.
September 6, 2023
Sweet but dead grandparent books are always a gut punch. I like the way Sora’s name ties in and how she uses that to rise above the bullies at school. Is it feminist enough for rise? Not sure. But I liked it. A good comp for chrysanthemum, the name jar, etc
Beautiful artwork and the soft wash works well with the beachiness although I really though Halmoni looked white on the second page not Korean idk
Beautiful artwork and the soft wash works well with the beachiness although I really though Halmoni looked white on the second page not Korean idk
October 22, 2024
searching for sea shells on a beach
doing an activity with an older adult
sharing
sometimes a name has a meaning
dealing with problems at school
kindness
(death)
doing an activity with an older adult
sharing
sometimes a name has a meaning
dealing with problems at school
kindness
(death)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews