Oceans: The Vast, Mysterious Deep

Oceans cover more than seventy percent of the earth. Below the surface of the water lies chains of volcanoes, deep trenches, and tall mountains, whose tops break the water in the form of islands. Above the surface, oceans affect the earth's weather. Wind and water can create severe storms, depending on the temperature. The Gulf Stream, a current that begins in the Gulf of Mexico, travels across the Atlantic Ocean and affects the climate in the British Isles. Oceans are an important part of the planet. This basic introduction explores oceans form their formation millions of years ago to the important role they play in nature each day.

David L.  Harrison, who hold degrees in biology and parasitology, is the author of more than sixty books, including the previous titles in the Earthworks series: Caves, Rivers, and Volcanoes. He lives in Springfield, Missouri.

Cheryl Nathan is the illustrator of The Rain Forest Counts; Bugs and Beasties; and the other titles in the Earthworks series. She lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Oceans cover more than seventy percent of the earth. Below the surface of the water lie chains of volcanoes, deep trenches, and tall mountains, whose tops break the water in the form of islands. Above the surface, oceans affect the earth's weather. Wind and water can create severe storms, depending on the temperature. The Gulf Stream, a current that begins in the Gulf of Mexico, travels across the Atlantic Ocean and affects the climate in the British Isles. Oceans are an important part of the planet. This basic introduction explores oceans from their formation millions of years ago to the important role they play in nature each day.

Oceans cover more than seventy percent of the earth. Below the surface of the water lie chains of volcanoes, deep trenches, and tall mountains, whose tops break the water in ...

Judy Crowder - Children's Literature

How do you explain something as complex and diverse as the ocean to a young child? How do the seas stay full of water? What critters live there, near the surface or way down deep? Oceans sometimes have huge ice chunks, they never stay still, they are affected by the moon, yet are vulnerable to humankind's pollution and over fishing. Harrison takes on these vast issues and more with spare, well-written text. Nathan's illustrations are simple, colorful, attractive. Particularly well-done are complicated subjects such as deep trenches on the ocean floor, tsunamis caused by deep water volcanoes or earthquakes, or ocean storms typhoons, hurricanes and cyclones. Good job! This introductory book would be a fine addition to a school or classroom library as well as the shelf of a nonfiction-loving young reader. 2003, Boyds Mills Press, Ages 3 to 7.

David L. Harrison is the author of more than 70 books that have sold over 15 million copies. Pirates, also illustrated by Dan Burr, was placed on the Texas Bluebonnet Award 2010-2011 Master List. Harrison is the recipient of many awards, including the Christopher Award and the Missouri Librarian Association Literacy Award for the body of his work. He lives in Springfield, Missouri.

Cheryl has worked as an art director and a designer. She has illustrated a number of nature books for children. Her art has won recognition from the Society of Illustrators.