Jump into Science: Coral Reefs

A brief introduction to coral reefs, including where they are found, how they grow, what lives in them, their importance, and efforts being made to protect and restore them.

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.

Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz - Children's Literature

Earle, the noted author and marine biologist, invites us to put on our face mask, snorkel and flippers, and tour a coral reef. She vividly describes the kinds of coral reefs, how they grow, the many creatures that live in and around the reefs, and the fish that swim nearby. She ends with a note on the efforts to protect the easily damaged reefs. Matthews supplies double-page scenes, many with frames filled with sea creatures, depicting the inhabitants of this underwater world. Her ink and gouache paintings have a spontaneous, almost child-like quality that presents the visual information without detailed, precise scientific accuracy. Small black labels are unobtrusively integrated; the brief text is also woven into the overall page layouts. This attractively produced work, from the "Jump Into Science" series, makes a fine introduction to more detailed study. Included is a map of coral reefs around the world as well as an experiment on how coral animals filter their food. 2003, National Geographic Society,

Sylvia A. Earle is a marine biologist, author, lecturer, and ocean explorer. She has been a National Geographic Society’s Explorer-in-Residence since 1998.As part of the Sustainable Seas Expeditions launched in 1998 with Society support, Earle plans to dive in all 12 U.S. marine sanctuaries. Called "Her Deepness" by the New York Times, Earle has a B.S. from Florida State University and a Ph.D. from Duke University, as well as numerous honorary doctorates. When not underwater, she lives in Oakland, California.