The Vanishing Sea: The Tale of How the Aral Sea Became the Aral Desert

K-Gr 3–Mirtalipova offers a poignant and beautifully illustrated tale of warning that’s important to share with children. The story of the Aral Sea is a recent lesson for most. In just a few decades, this vast sea which was formed in the Ice Age was reduced to a few small bodies of water surrounded by a toxic desert. The first portion of the book unfolds as an illustrative narrative, simply and effectively showing how greed led to the sea’s disappearance. The story feels fluid and folksy, and the illustrations reflect both cultural heritage and environmental transformation. Mirtalipova’s detailed yet raw artwork is rich in symbolism and texture, with a handcrafted feel that deepens the story’s message. The people of the land are shown with care, wearing culturally accurate clothing and expressions that bring authenticity to the pages. The back matter includes a compelling author’s note. The text offers information about the area, the ecological impact of the sea’s disappearance, and ends with a brief but powerful call to action. Though it may be too late for the Aral Sea, this book inspires young readers to care for Earth’s resources with intention and respect.