Teachers and parents, take note: this book is already a classic. Two geniuses--author and illustrator--came into perfect alignment to create this book. The author has kids thinking it is entertainment while adults think it is a great lesson about the ocean. The genius of the illustrator is obvious. With painstaking detail each illustration is created entirely of polymer clay, then photographed, creating a 3-D impression of tremendous vitality. Kids will sing, clap, and count their way among pufferfish that puff, gruntfishthat grunt, and seahorses that flutter, and begin to appreciate life in the ocean. And the art will inspire many a project. Plus there are several pages of extension ideas for curriculum and art projects as well as resources on the web and elsewhere.
Did you know that crabs look like mini, clear lobsters when they are babies? Crabs have to molt many times before they even look like adults with hard outer shells. Some crabs grow their own shells while others find used shells to call their own. Find out about a crab's life cycle, physical traits, habitat, and more in this title for beginning readers.
Jellyfish are graceful, beautiful ocean animals. But their looks are deceiving. Those long, wavy tentacles can really sting! Jellyfish are often transparent. They do not have bones, blood, or brains. Despite their simplicity, these creatures have been around for millions of years. Discover more about jellyfish in this title for emergent readers.
Did you know that sea stars pump water instead of blood through their systems? Although commonly called starfish, these life forms are not fish! Instead, they are part of a group containing other animals like sea urchins and sand dollars. Sea stars are hardy animals that can grow new limbs and open clam shells. In this interesting title, students will enjoy learning more about these shining ocean stars!
Clinging below the ocean's surface are small creatures with horse heads and monkey tails. Sea horses may have parts that look like other animals, but they are their own unique specimen. In fact, sea horses are so extraordinary that the males give birth! Although sea horses are extremely slow swimmers, they will quickly enter the hearts and minds of curious, young readers!
Clownfish have mastered the art of friendship. These striped fish form a special bond with sea anemones. They help each other survive. Clownfish enjoy the sea anemone's protection and leftover food. In return, they will chase away animals or eat pests that harm sea anemones. In this fascinating title, young readers will learn all about clownfish, from their coloring to their home range and more.
Sea turtles have strong flippers to propel them through water. These shelled animals may migrate thousands of miles to lay eggs. Although they are not agile on shore, some can swim faster than 20 miles (32 kilometers) per hour! Many sea turtles live to be well over 30 years old. Beginning readers will learn a boat load of exciting information in this fun title on sea turtles.
