Sensational Sharks (Tim Flannery & Emma Flannery, illus by Katie Melrose, HGCP)
The latest book by scientists Tim Flannery and Emma Flannery delves into similar territory as Flannery’s ‘Explore Your World’ series, but is pitched at a younger age group. Giving the reader the basics about sharks, it also provides lots of fun facts (they’ve been around for 450 million years!) and has a double-page spread devoted to the Meg (Otodus Megalodon), an ancient shark that grew up to 20 metres long and had jaws big enough to eat whales. Shark anatomy, their eggs, how sharks mate and the importance of conservation are all important topics covered. The book also features a variety of different species ranging from the smallest, the dwarf lantern, to the biggest, the massive whale shark. Comparing sharks to humans in terms of size helps make them more relatable for young readers. Beautifully illustrated by artist Katie Melrose, this is the first in a series on single animal species for children aged 5 to 8. While there is a fair amount of text on each page, it is presented in an accessible, engaging manner with full-page illustrations. The series will be good for libraries, as well as for children who have a passion for specific animals.
Books+Publishing reviewer: Angela Crocombe is a senior children’s buyer at Readings Kids. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.
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