Shelly the Loggerhead

What if one of the oldest residents of Pensacola Pass could tell her story?

Deep beneath the emerald waters of Florida's Gulf Coast lives Shelly, a wise loggerhead sea turtle who has spent decades navigating the tides, storms, and changing shoreline of Pensacola Pass. When Captain Eric meets Shelly, she invites him-and young readers-on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders and history of the Gulf Coast.

From her first moments as a tiny hatchling crawling toward the sea, to her years crossing the open ocean and her return to the beaches where she was born, Shelly shares the remarkable life cycle of a loggerhead sea turtle. Along the way, readers discover the challenges sea turtles face, including predators, pollution, artificial lighting, habitat loss, and powerful storms.

As Shelly explores the waters of Northwest Florida, she introduces readers to some of the region's most fascinating landmarks and stories, including Fort Pickens, Fort McRee, the Pensacola Lighthouse, the USS Massachusetts shipwreck, the Blue Angels, barrier islands, coastal dunes, and the rich marine ecosystems that support life in and around Pensacola Bay.

Blending adventure, marine science, local history, and conservation, Shelly the Loggerhead: Guardian of the Pass teaches children how individual actions can help protect sea turtles, preserve fragile habitats, and safeguard the Gulf Coast for future generations. Through engaging storytelling and beautiful illustrations, young readers gain a deeper understanding of the connections between wildlife, people, and the environment.

Part of the Tales from the Pensacola Pass series by Captain Eric J. Paull, this educational and inspiring children's book celebrates the resilience of nature and the importance of stewardship. Perfect for families, classrooms, libraries, homeschool programs, nature centers, and anyone who loves the ocean, Shelly the Loggerhead: Guardian of the Pass encourages readers to explore, learn, and become protectors of the world around them.

Join Shelly on a journey through history, wildlife, and the waters she calls home-and discover why every generation has a role in protecting the treasures of the Gulf Coast.