A 9-year-old Wellington student has turned a science fair project into a published children’s book and is hosting a launch event at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in March.
After turning a science fair frustration into a published book, young author Emiliana Fuger is celebrating with a public launch event at one of South Florida’s most iconic marine education centers.
The book launch for Anatomy Under the Sea: The Adventures of Luna the Loggerhead will take place at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach on Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m. The event is open to the public and families.
Emiliana, a Wellington native, began this journey while working on her 2024 Wavemakers science project. Her goal was to build a physical model showing the internal anatomy of a sea turtle. While researching, she noticed something surprising. There were plenty of children’s books about sea turtles, yet none that clearly showed how their bodies work on the inside.
“When I couldn’t find a book that showed the inside of a sea turtle,” Emiliana said, “I decided to write one myself so kids could understand it more easily.”
To make sure the science was accurate, Emiliana interviewed local marine scientists and studied how sea turtles compare anatomically to other sea animals found in South Florida waters. She partnered with professional illustrator Jess Burbank to transform complex scientific concepts into bright, kid-friendly visuals.
The result is Anatomy Under the Sea, a children’s book that blends storytelling with real marine biology. Through side-by-side comparisons of ocean animals, the book introduces young readers to anatomy, conservation and scientific curiosity in an approachable way.
Emiliana’s work has already earned meaningful recognition. She won the 2025 Wavemakers Competition and received praise from renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle. She was also named a 2025 Go Blue Award nominee, highlighting the educational impact of her project. Beyond the book, Emiliana gives “Turtle Talks” at local schools and nonprofit organizations to continue sharing her love of marine science with other kids.
The March 7 launch event will include a live book reading and discussion with Emiliana Fuger, book signings and opportunities to learn more about sea turtles and marine conservation.
Anatomy Under the Sea: The Adventures of Luna the Loggerhead is available at www.lunatheloggerhead.com, through major retailers, and at select local gift shops, including at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Manatee Lagoon.
