From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8-A sincere, if rather colorless, biography of a remarkable pioneer in the study of sharks. Containing not only the expected updated biographical data, it also includes a great deal of information on the studies Clark has conducted during her long career, and on shark behavior as well. A number of informational boxes provide notes on such diverse topics as "Diving Techniques" and "Poisonous and Venomous Fish." The illustrations include bland photos in both color and black and white and some of Clark's notebook pages. This is a detailed, useful book, but for depth and pizzazz, consider Michael Elsohn Ross's sprightlier Fish Watching with Eugenie Clark (Carolrhoda, 2000).
Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Clark, an American ichthyologist of Japanese ancestry, has made significant findings in her field and is also an accomplished diver. This biography's best chapters describe Clark's childhood and her early trips to the New York aquarium that led to an interest in tropical fish and, ultimately, to formal studies in college. Overcoming the usual postwar America assumption that she was best suited for secretarial work, she went on to earn a doctorate. Unfortunately, Clark's studies over the years are listed without many anecdotes, reading like a fleshed-out resume. Things pick up, though, when Clark develops her interest in sharks, presented as far more complex and less dangerous animals than their popular image. Where appropriate, the authors include boxed insets, which explain aspects of marine biology or scuba diving. Also included are a glossary, a bibliography, and a chronology of Clark's life. A welcome biography of a contemporary scientist. Todd Morning
