Cali and the Kelp Forest

Storytelling · Illustration · Book design

Making ocean conservation a story children can enter

Cali and the Kelp Forest began as a story I wanted to share with the children in my life. I wrote and illustrated it to introduce young readers to California’s kelp forests and the marine life they support, carrying the characters and underwater world from the first idea through publication.

I wanted the book to invite curiosity rather than feel like a lesson. Expressive characters, bright color, and an inviting underwater setting give children a way into a story about caring for the ocean. Published in July 2024, the book has sold over 1,000 copies.

My role — Author · Illustrator

Tools — Procreate · Photoshop · Canva · InDesign