Racing to the Sea

About the Book

Racing to the Sea tells the story of two sea turtles, newly hatched from their nest, who race to the sea.

But, what if…

What if their life force was overridden by fear and anxiety? What if they chose to stay on land rather than race to the sea? That would unfortunately be the end of the sea turtle.

Ms. Ryan felt inspired to create a beautifully illustrated story with a message that affirmed the mystery, beauty, and tenacity of life. Racing to the Sea was written during the initial phases of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown. She said, “It was heartbreaking to witness the dreams and destinies of a whole generation of children being hijacked by fear.”

There is no guarantee that life will turn out the way it’s planned; It is a choice to become more joyful of living than fearful of dying.

About the Author

Jo Anne Ryan lives in Eugene, Oregon with her two sons, two cats and a German shepherd. She enjoys cooking and spending any kind of time with her family and friends.

Leasa Draganchuk draws inspiration from the beautiful coastal community where she grew up, and she paints the ocean and seaside landscapes she sees daily. Along with her husband and their two sons, Leasa loves traveling. Memories from her trips and images from her vacation photographs are often vividly re-created on canvas.