Erin Entrada Kelly's Lalani of the Distant Sea has been praised for its lush, poetic prose and rich, imaginative world-building reminiscent of folklore. Reviewers appreciate its strong, determined heroine and depth of cultural inspiration. However, some find the pacing uneven and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it's a captivating, heartfelt story suitable for middle-grade readers.

Readers who enjoy Lalani of the Distant Sea by Erin Entrada Kelly are typically fans of rich, culturally-inspired fantasy. Similar to those who love Grace Lin's Where the Mountain Meets the Moon and Kelly Barnhill's The Girl Who Drank the Moon, they appreciate strong heroines, mythology, and enchanting adventures.

In Lalani of the Distant Sea, a 12-year-old girl named Lalani Sarita embarks on a perilous journey across the Veiled Sea to find a mythical flower on Mount Isa to cure her mother and bring prosperity to her oppressed island of Sanlagita. Along the way, she faces monsters, encounters deceptive characters, and ultimately discovers her own strength and courage. The narrative explores themes of bravery, compassion, and the significance found in the smallest of individuals or actions.

Adventurous / Mysterious / Fantastical / Emotional / Nostalgic

Erin Entrada Kelly

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Lalani of the Distant Sea Summary and Study Guide

Background

Lalani of the Distant Sea Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 16

Lalani of the Distant Sea Prologue-Chapter 16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-32

Lalani of the Distant Sea Chapters 17-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-46

Lalani of the Distant Sea Chapters 33-46 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 47-66

Lalani of the Distant Sea Chapters 47-66 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Lalani of the Distant Sea Character Analysis

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Themes

Lalani of the Distant Sea Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Lalani of the Distant Sea Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Lalani of the Distant Sea Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Lalani of the Distant Sea Essay Topics

Lalani of the Distant Sea

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Lalani of the Distant Sea?

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Book Details