Atoya The First Whale

Scientists believe that sixty million years ago whales were four footed, carnivorous mammals who lived on the land. For one reason or another they, along with other mammals, retreated to the oceans from which they originally came.

"Atoya The First Whale" follows the adventures and metamorphosis of Atoya the whale as the oceans which first gave his kind life call him to his origins. During the innocent pleasures and pursuits of his youth a gradual, realization emerges that he is unlike the others of his race and does not fit into the norm.

Written as an allegorical tale "Atoya The First Whale" addresses issues, which in the final analysis, are age old and timeless. Conflicts arise in the form of peer pressure, generation gaps and dissension with established authority.

The hardships of change are explored as are the difficulties of rejection by peers and family because one appears to be different. Though unwelcome by the established order change is inevitable and the one who stands at the vanguard must brave the consequences of rejection and ridicule. However, without change stagnation results and extinction is the ultimate end.

Along his road of adventures Atoya the whale receives help and guidance from a variety of characters. There is the old dolphin who gently introduces him to the Great Waters of the ocean. Tero, the flying lizard, who watches and protects from above. His parents who, though they don't understand his deviation from the tribal path, stand by him at the end. And Leanna, who would become his mate, even as others seek his destruction. Conflict with the tribe comes from Lanyo, a childhood friend, and Gondor, leader of the tribe of whales.

Ultimately Atoya makes an irrevocable decision in a final confrontation with the established order. A decision that leaves no room for return to the old ways. Instead Atoya opts for the uncertainty of change which in the end brings him the chance for a new and wondrous existence.

The story of "Atoya The First Whale" shows that change in life is inevitable, but approached with an open and courageous attitude acceptance of change can be a way to grow and expand one's self beyond the limitations and constraints so often imposed on individuals.

This story has special relevance for children of all ages in this present day when change and pressures to conform abound on all sides.

Dettagli