Sharks have a reputation of being the most feared creatures of the sea, and in this fantastic new book, we learn the myths and facts of these exciting animals--and that they aren't as deadly as they seem. Of the more than 850 shark species, 80 percent would not hurt people, or would rarely encounter them. Sharks and their kin--skates and rays--have remained essentially the same for hundreds of millions of years, and their existence is now threatened by man and his fears. Thomas Allen takes us through the evolution of the shark, its folklore, its commercial uses, and gives us a detailed look at shark attacks--where they happen, why, and how to protect yourself from them. He describes over one hundred shark species--their behavior, appearance, size, and distribution--and provides helpful scientific illustrations. He offers current information on scientific research (including the recent studies on shark cartilage in cancer research), current population findings, and the continuing conservation efforts. With over twenty-five color photographs of familiar and unusual sharks, interesting and fact-filled sidebars, and useful appendixes, The Shark Almanac is a comprehensive overview and the perfect book for anyone interested in these fascinating creatures.
I have been writing since my teen years, when I covered high school sports for my hometown newspaper, The Herald, in Bridgeport, Conn.
I continued working at the paper while I was in college. In the mid-1950s I began working for The New York Daily News, writing feature stories. In 1963, I left The News, going to Chilton Books in Philadelphia, and then to the National Geographic Book Division. I began freelancing in 1981, but I continued contributing to Geographic publications.
