Jules vs. the Ocean

Jules cannot wait to make the “BIGGEST . . . FANCIEST . . . MOST EXCELLENT” sand castle ever during her outing to the beach with her older sister and mom. Jules grabs her bucket, eager to make a castle that will impress her sister, and wonders if the ocean will help her in her task. As she begins to build, it’s clear the ocean will not help as a wave crashes down and obliterates her work. She tries a few more times with the same end result, eventually losing her bucket to the tide and dramatically lying face down in the sand. Jules’ older sister reassures Jules that it happens to everyone and helps her make the most amazing castle ever with just their hands—that is, until the ocean sweeps it all away again (though this time the girls acknowledge how cool the ocean is instead of feeling upset). As they leave the beach, their mom wisely advises the girls that it happens to everyone and explains how the moon plays a part in the ocean’s tides. Sima’s illustrations mirror the story in its simplistic and playful style with a few greater moments, like the sunlight reflecting off the ocean. The characters are unique and not idealistic, with slightly larger-than-average noses. A loving older sister and her helpful response quietly shines through in this pleasant read about an unremarkable yet memorable day at the beach.