"Can you hear me?" he said the turtle swimming near a young girl snorkeling on the artificial reef one day. "Sure! Clear as a bell" she responds in amazement. Teddy, is a special sea turtle born and living in the serene waters of the Navarre Marine Sanctuary on Florida's Gulf Coast. Mia, is a spirited young girl with a passion for marine life, becomes the Turtle's best friend. Together, they embark on adventures that highlight the beauty and importance of the underwater environment. Through their friendship, the book vividly explores themes of teamwork, conservation and the urgent need to protect the delicate ecosystems of the NW Florida coastline. The Author's storytelling is both engaging and educational making complex environmental concepts accessible to young readers. The vibrant illustrations also complement the story, bringing Teddy and Mia's world to life and captivating the imagination of young and old alike. Teddy and Mia teach readers about the significance of teamwork, empathy, and stewardship. "Soft Shell- Teddy the Talking Turtle" not only entertains but also instills a sense of responsibility towards the sea. It's a delightful book by award-winning author Tom McAuliffe with vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue making the underwater world come alive. The story is not only an entertaining journey but also a powerful lesson in marine conservation. Kids will have fun while both parents and educators will appreciate the books educational value and its ability to inspire young minds.