Forster, Miriam. Sharks: A Mighty Bite-y History. Gordy Wright, Illus. Non-fiction. Abrams, 05/2022. [84]pp. $24.99. 978-1-4197-4773-1. OUTSTANDING. GRADES 2-6.
Sharks are some of the oldest animals on Earth and have survived extinction, predators, and changing climate. Their secret is a varied toolbox of special attributes. This large-format, welldesigned, and handsomely illustrated book offers in-depth profiles of fourteen fascinating shark species and conveys volumes worth of relevant context packaged in short, easily digested paragraphs and sidebars. Opening with scientific, yet whimsical, lists of things older than sharks (fungus, worms, bugs) and things younger than sharks (humans, dinosaurs, trees) the reader is immediately immersed in a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of all things shark. Select terms are clearly defined, and in-depth profiles are followed by toolbox attributes and related behaviors from teeth to senses, migration to camouflage. Double-page spreads call out the major eras and extinction events sharks have lived through. It is a rare non-fiction work that allows for reading aloud while packing in enough qualitative information to justify years of perusal. Gouache and acrylic paintings bring to life prehistoric and modern day animals that capture imagination. Back matter includes more prehistoric sharks of note, ways to help, and resources.
Melissa McAvoy, Retired
