By John Harbour

Wonder Shell

a modern fable

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and ancient wisdom as Corazinda explores the true meaning of his name, the secret behind Ddraigddyn’s identity, and the enchanting power of the shells of wonder. This captivating tale will open your heart and mind to the magic of kindness and empathy, revealing that the strength to change the world resides within us all.

Wonder Shell is a touching story inspired by the magical legends and the coastline of southern Wales.

About the book

Wonder Shell invites readers to embark upon a transformative journey alongside Corazinda, to unravel a mystery and unlock the true power of kindness. This tale encourages reflection on our own burdens and those we witness in others, and how compassion can truly make a difference.

Wonder Shell is a touching story inspired by the magical legends and the coastline of southern Wales. In the village of Aberdoethus, a wish on the seeds of a dandelion leads to an encounter with a mysterious sage. This enchanting fable weaves together the wonders of nature, the wisdom of an ancient sage, and the power of a magical shell, creating a spellbinding tale that will captivate the imagination.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and ancient wisdom as Corazinda explores the true meaning of his name, the secret behind Ddraigddyn’s identity, and the enchanting power of the shells of wonder. This captivating tale will open your heart and mind to the magic of kindness and empathy, revealing that the strength to change the world resides within us all.
John Harbour pens a poignant tale exploring personal burdens and the profound impact of kindness. And Ukrainian artist Lyubov Malygina’s illustrations lend a dreamlike quality to the narrative.

“This is a fable about empathy, compassion, and grace; about seeing the rocks that others carry. Displaced from Kiev due to war, and while carrying one of the biggest rocks that I can imagine, she has created magical watercolors that truly reflect the soul of the story. As you see the rocks that you and others carry, remember that those rocks need not be an anchor that restrict us from taking flight.

Some rocks can break you, some can hold you back, and there are some that you can transform into balloons that allow you to soar.”

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"This is an imaginative and whimsical story that promotes kindness and helps to explain the concept of empathy to young readers. A warm and fantastical tale about empathy and kindness."

Our Verdict: Get it.

- Kirkus Reviews

"Visionary tale that teaches how compassion can ease life’s burdens. Malygina’s delicate watercolor illustrations are a stunning backdrop for this tender, big-hearted tale, as they showcase the village’s rolling hills and cerulean water. Harbour’s lesson is a timely reminder of the impact grace can have on the world around us."

- BookLife Review

Rare when you find a book as beautifully illustrated as this. Rarer still when the story matches the illustration in beauty. This is just such a book, and congratulations to both writer and artist.

A soft, gentle story about a boy and ... well, something else. Full of quirky details, charming mise en scene, well-drawn characters and words that ring true. A lesson for people of all ages. When I finish this review I'm going to buy another copy and send it to my daughter so she can read it to my grandson. Lovely.

⭐⭐⭐⭐5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely wonderful

- Geoffrey V. Raymond

Best Selling Author

John Harbour

John Harbour is an American writer and resides with his wife  in New York City. John's writing spans various genres, with fiction works such as "Nighthawks," "The Last Trout," and numerous short stories as well as the children's book, "Darya The Droplet." John's non-fiction work includes "Diary of a Hippie: A Real-Life Journal of What to Expect During a Total Hip Replacement," as well as food and travel essays. With a passion for travel, John enjoys exploring new destinations, which often serve as inspiration for his writing.

Award Winning Illustrator

Lyubov Malygina

Lyubov Malygina, an award-winning Ukrainian artist-illustrator, brings the story to life with her stunning watercolor illustrations. Her work on classics like The Wind in The Willows and The Secret Garden has received widespread acclaim, including the Ukrainian Book of the Year award in 2018. Currently residing in Warsaw due to the Ukrainian conflict, Malygina's art continues to inspire and enchant. Explore her portfolio at www.artmalygina.com.

World of Wonder

Have you found a wonder shell? Share your find by tagging Wonder Shell or John on social media and we’ll add it to the Wonder Shell Discovery Map.

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Contact Author

jharbour@wondershellbook.com