Jessica and the sealion kiss

Behind the story

Some moments in travel stay with you forever. Not because they were loud or dramatic or overly adventurous but because they were gentle, unexpected, and filled with wonder.

One of those moments for me happened in the Galápagos Islands, when a tiny sea lion pup waddled up, looked me straight in the eyes…and kissed my cheek.

For as long as I can remember, the Galápagos had felt like a faraway dream, one of those places you whisper about but never quite believe you’ll see with your own eyes. Volcanoes, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas… creatures that feel more like storybook animated characters than real animals.

But that dream came true.

Island by island, aboard the Cruz del Sur, I explored a world where animals aren’t afraid of humans, they have no natural predators and that very unique ecosystems live side by side as each island was vastly different to the next.

From sunbathing marine iguanas that sneeze saltwater to blue-footed boobies proudly doing their mating dance to giant tortoises that look like walking rocks, every island felt like stepping into a living fairytale.

But the sea lions stole my heart.

Hundreds of them lazed across the sand like they had no care in the world. And one brave little pup, curious and unafraid, waddled up to me and gave my cheek the softest little nudge. I wasn’t sure if I should be insulted, thinking I
was one of their own, or privileged I was chosen for such an encounter.

In that moment, I wasn’t a visitor. I was a friend.

 

Why this story matters

This book introduces children to a real-world ecosystem through storytelling,
helping them build:

• Curiosity about the natural world
• Respect for animals and habitats
• Confidence to explore new ideas
• Early global awareness
• Being gentle with animals