I Lived Inside a Whale

This enchanting tale follows Emma Wen, who escapes her noisy life by sailing into a whale, where she discovers friendship and her own voice in I Lived Inside a Whale.

In I Lived Inside a Whale, readers are introduced to Emma Wen, a quiet child navigating the chaos of her boisterous family. Yearning for a peaceful escape, she discovers the wonders of storytelling and imagination through her fascination with blue whales. Emma's journey begins when she constructs a boat from household items and sails into the mouth of a whale, seeking solace in the serene environment it offers. Here, she finds a sanctuary where her dreams of tranquility can finally take shape.

However, her newfound peace is disrupted when Owen Tang, a loud and exuberant boy, unexpectedly joins her inside the whale. Initially overwhelmed by his energy, Emma soon learns that their differences can lead to a beautiful friendship. Together, they explore the delicate balance between solitude and companionship, as well as the importance of finding one's voice in a noisy world. Their adventures inside the whale serve as a metaphor for the challenges children face in expressing themselves amidst external chaos.

Xin Li's debut as both author and illustrator is beautifully executed, with lush illustrations that enhance the whimsical nature of the story. I Lived Inside a Whale is not just a tale of friendship; it is an ode to the power of imagination and storytelling, providing young readers with a deeper understanding of their emotional landscapes.