Dare County Library Book Club Information and Resource Center

WHEN SEA BECOMES SKY, Gillian McDunn

Bex and Davey's summer in the saltmarsh is different this year, thanks to the record-breaking drought. Even the fish seem listless--and each day the water level lowers farther. When they discover a mysterious underwater statue, they're thrilled at the chance to solve the puzzle of its origin. This is the summer adventure they've been waiting for.

When they learn of a development plan that will destroy their special spot, they'll need to act quickly. Unfortunately, sometimes progress happens whether you're ready or not. What will it mean if Bex and Davey lose their corner of the marsh where otters frolic and dragonflies buzz--their favorite place to be siblings together?

As Bex and Davey attempt to save the statue and their beloved marsh, they come to see that the truth is not as simple as it seems . . . ultimately discovering so much more about life, permanence, love, and loss than they ever expected.

Award-winning author Gillian McDunn crafts a gorgeous story of love and siblinghood, of secret statues and island life, of holding on and letting go.

1.  What will happen if Bex and Davey lose their favorite place? Do you have a special place you like to go? 
2. What role does the salt marsh play in the lives of Bex and Davey, and what does the possibility of losing it mean for them? 
3. The statue in the marsh is an exciting mystery for Bex and Davey to solve. How do Bex and Davey use clues from their adventures to piece together the history of the statue and the marsh? Do you like mysteries? Have you ever had one to solve in real life? 
4. What kind of animals live in your neighborhood? Do you enjoy watching them like Bex and Davey? 
5. What ethical dilemmas do the characters face when trying to protect their beloved marsh from development? 
6. How does the phrase "where the blues blur together and sea becomes sky" relate to the central mysteries and emotions of the story? 
7. How does the bond between Bex and Davey evolve throughout the story? 
8. How does the story challenge the idea that sad books are bad or should be avoided?