Beneath the surface of the ocean lies a mysterious and astounding world that few people ever get to see. This book merges breathtaking art with the latest scientific research to take readers on a fantastic voyage on the submarine Marine Snow, where they meet blue whales, vampire squid, viper fish, and a giant sea spider. They'll learn about bioluminescence, Radiolaria, and coral reefs, discovering incredible facts about the marine world. Annika Siems's illustrations vibrate with color and detail, even as they convey the mystery of a place with scant natural light. From the smallest plankton magnified by thousands, to the most enormous whale, captured on a single page, the sea's denizens are recreated with spectacular precision and artistry. Marine biologist Wolfgang Dreyer's text brings the ocean to life--whether he's describing a transparent jellyfish or the way colors disappear from view as you descend to the ocean floor. A feast for the eye and the mind, this stunning book helps us comprehend a massive, mostly unfamiliar part of our world--one that flourishes with life and beauty.

Editor review

1 review

A wonderful peek into the sea.

February 14, 2020

Overall rating

5.0

Writing Style

5.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

Learning Value

5.0

This book doesn't meet the expectations of most kid's books about the ocean with their bright and colorful pictures depicting the beautiful dolphins and sea turtles of the world. No, this tells a different story of the sea, one much darker and deeper and more fascinating. It gives us a look into the deeper waters that we don't think much about, the part of the ocean that only rare light reaches, some of it coming from the animals themselves.
The images match the subject matter, having a darker and more dangerous feel to them. It evokes a bit of adrenaline as you flip through the pages, learning about these waters.
The educational value of this book can't be underplayed, but it will also entrance the reader, pulling them into a story with fantastic imagery.

Final Verdict: A must have for every book shelf owned by anyone remotely interested in what sits beyond the sparkling beaches we all know.