Written by Meg Medina, Illustrated by Anna and Elena Balbusso
As the book says, “black water on a summer day always means someone will die.” That is what happened to Graciela on her 13th birthday. Now she lives at the bottom of the ocean and welcomes other people who die from the power of the ocean. One day she meets a 12 year old boy, Jorge. He found a powerful harpoon and senses that it is dangerous. Together Graciela and Jorge must fight the evil spirit who owns the harpoon. They go on a great underwater adventure. The story is better because of the beautiful illustrations.
Reviewed by Armani Ojeda, Student, Jim Bridger Elementary
Review shared in February 2026
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-10
Graciela in the Abyss
Written by Meg Medina, Illustrated by Anna Balbusso, Elena Balbusso
Candlewick Press
236 pages
Release Date: July 1, 2025
ISBN: 978-1-53621-945-6
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
