Jump into Science: Coral Reefs [Hardcover]

Sylvia Earle (Author), Bonnie Matthews (Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 4 and up | Grade Level: P and up | Series: Jump Into Science

A jewel-toned parrotfish guides a young snorkeler through the stunning underwater realm of coral reefs. Readers encounter an amazing array of fish, sharks, worms, dolphins, turtles, and other creatures that live in and among the coral—and see how these various animals relate to one another. During this colorful tour, children also discover how reefs are formed and learn how these precious ecosystems protect our world by keeping the oceans healthy. Earle’s fact-filled text and Matthews’s exuberant illustrations are sure to appeal to curious youngsters!

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreSchool-Grade 2-Earle takes children on an undersea journey to explore an amazing "underwater city." She explains the formation of coral reefs and provides information about the conditions needed for survival. In addition, the author introduces other animals that live in and near the reef and stresses the importance of protecting corals from pollution. Matthews's ink-and-gouache paintings bring the colors and variety of this habitat to life. The book also includes a simple experiment that demonstrates how "filter feeders" strain food from the water. Those who want to view photos of reef creatures might consult Paul Fleisher's Coral Reef (Benchmark, 1997). Earle's attractive and intriguing introduction will stimulate interest among young readers.
Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

K-Gr. 2. "In warm, clear oceans around the world, coral reefs circle our Earth like a belt of beautiful jewels." Descriptive, inviting language and brilliantly colored watercolor artwork introduce the reef's complex world in this picture-book entry in the Jump into Science series. The pages follow a young snorkeler, clad in a pink polka-dot swimsuit, as she swims through coral reefs and observes underwater plants and animals, which are described in the brief, informative paragraphs and visualized in detailed illustrations in tropical colors. There's also a bit of information on the reef world after dark and on the delicate balance required to maintain the health of the underwater reef community. A closing activity demonstrates the concept of filter feeding, and an opening map depicts general locations of reefs around the globe. A cheerful, informative introduction to an exciting ecosystem, with lush visuals for children to enjoy in story hours or on their own. Gillian Engberg
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: National Geographic Children's Books (April 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0792269535
• ISBN-13: 978-0792269533
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 0.4 x 9.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,112,803 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars Nice book to explain reef life to young children (5 and younger), November 18, 2010

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Francesca Noli (San Francisco, CA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Jump Into Science: Coral Reefs (Paperback)

this book is a nice and fun way to explain coral life to young children. it is colorful and it lists several types of corals. however, if your child needs more than an introduction, this is not the book. not much detail if offered besides the basic facts which are well explained.