Review of PARROTFISH AND SUNKEN SHIPS: EXPLORING A TROPICAL REEF

Bibliography:

Arnosky, Jim. 2007. Parrotfish and sunken ships: Exploring a tropical reef. Illustrated by author. New York: HarperCollins Children’s Books. ISBN 9780688171230

Review:

“Aye, matey! There’s treasure to be found! So come with us aboard our salty little boat and explore . . .” So begins Parrotfish and Sunken Ships, and Arnosky does not disappoint his readers, for this book contains a treasure of information readers will discover as they navigate the coastal waters off of southeastern Florida with Jim and his wife Deanna on their boat Crayfish to study the “only living coral reef in U.S. waters.” The award winning author and illustrator of over 86 nature books presents basic information about the coral reef, marine life, and sunken ships in a straightforward, easy to understand manner. Arnosky uses everyday comparisons, such as comparing a shark’s movement through the reef searching for hidden fish to “shoppers in a market,” to enable children unfamiliar with sea life to understand the topic. Elementary school children will be intrigued by the story-like narrative, which follows the Arnoskys on their explorations. Along the way, readers will learn interesting facts to share with friends. For instance, did you know that “it is believed that parrotfish account for most of the sand found on tropical beaches”? The full-page, vibrantly painted illustrations depicting sea creatures swimming among the coral, as well as images of the Crayfish as it maneuvers the reef, will capture readers’ attention. Arnosky has carefully labeled all the marine life, so readers can identify the fish being discussed. Later, when he prompts readers to “look at this scene with your hands cupped around your eyes as though you are looking through a diving mask” and name the fish and coral, readers will be ready to take the challenge. Parrotfish and Sunken Ships is a great read-aloud book which shares the beauty of a unique habitat and encourages children to explore “an ocean of wonders” on their own.