By Helaine Becker, Illustrated by Willow Dawson
Kids Can Press, $15.95, 80 pages
How do fish breathe underwater? Why is the ocean salty? Do otters really use tools to eat their food? Through simple experiments and fun facts, The Big Green Book of the Big Blue Sea teaches readers about the ocean and the importance of preservation. With a particular focus on pollution, ecological changes, overfishing and other environmental threats, this informative book promotes environmental awareness and suggests ways everyone can help to protect the ocean. Author Helaine Becker has created a book that uses educational hands-on activities to interest young readers in the watery world of the ocean and inspire them to develop their own ideas about environmental preservation. Although these activities are quite simple, each effectively demonstrates a scientific concept or animal adaptation. Every experiment has a set of clear step-by-step instructions and requires only a few household items to complete. Accompanying “What can you do?” sections suggest small environmentally-friendly changes readers can make in their daily lives to contribute to the health of the ocean. Willow Dawson’s illustrations add charm to the text. This book is an excellent addition to any classroom or home library.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Goss
[amazon asin=1554537460&text=Buy On Amazon&template=carousel]