This June, beloved author and educator Rachel Van Kluyve invites readers on a heartwarming undersea adventure with the release of her debut children’s book, Louie & La’Ree Empty the Sea. The first title in her new Sister Adventures series, the book follows two spirited sisters as they dive into a colorful ocean world brimming with friendship, purpose, and playful surprises.
But this isn’t just a tale of sea creatures and imagination—it’s a story layered with love, meaning, and mission. Through Louie and La’Ree’s journey, Rachel gently introduces young readers to themes of adoption, cultural diversity, and the beautiful, intentional way God designs families. Inspired by her own family—Rachel is a mom of four, including two children welcomed through adoption—this story serves as a joyful reflection of what makes every family unique and deeply valued.
Complete with whimsical illustrations, a starfish “seek and find” on every page, and a companion activity and coloring book, Louie & La’Ree Empty the Sea is perfect for classrooms, bedtime stories, or homeschool settings. A portion of every purchase supports adoptive families, making each book part of a bigger story of hope.
Rachel’s debut captures both the wonder of childhood and the power of storytelling rooted in faith and purpose. With her signature warmth and creativity, she’s crafted a book that will make hearts smile—and maybe even stir a few meaningful conversations at the dinner table. Dive in—there’s beauty waiting beneath the surface.
Rachel Van Kluyve is mom to four beautiful children, two by adoption. Rachel and her husband Richard understand the complexities, expense, heartbreak and joy that the adoption journey brings, which is why a generous portion of the profits from this book supports adoptive families in need. In addition to her joys as a children's author and adoptive parent, Rachel is a Nashville native, and a creative pursuing her purpose, one dream at a time.