Sea Otters: A Survival Story (Orca Wild)

by Isabelle Groc (Author)

Sea Otters: A Survival Story (Orca Wild)
Reading Level: 4th − 5th Grade
Series: Orca Wild
Sea otters once ruled the Pacific Ocean, but the fur trade of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries brought this predator to near extinction. Today they're slowly coming back from the brink, and scientists are learning more about their pivotal role as one of nature's keystone species. This book looks at the history, biology, behavior and uncertain future of sea otters. Author and photojournalist Isabelle Groc takes us into the field: watching sea otter rafts off the British Columbia coast from a kayak, exploring what makes their fur coats so special, understanding how their voracious appetites are helping kelp forests thrive and, ultimately, learning how sea otters are leaving their mark (or paws) on every part of the ecosystem. They might be one of the most adorable creatures in the ocean, but kids will discover how their survival is key to a rich, complex and connected ecosystem.
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Hardcover
$24.95

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Kirkus Reviews

A thorough introduction to an appealing keystone species. 

School Library Journal

Gr 4-7--Sea otters are cute, smart, and endangered. Author and wildlife photographer Groc shows readers the history of sea otters, their recovery from near-extinction, and what people can do to help save these marine animals. The book features full-color photographs and, much like its series predecessors, the text explains how humans have made an impact on a species and provides conservation tips. The book describes what otters eat, where they live, how they raise their pups, and the difficulties prey, humans, and changing ecosystems have imposed on them throughout the years. Nested between chapters are sections ("In the Field") where a biologist or person who works closely with sea otters discusses their job or role in helping sea otters thrive. VERDICT This very relevant book on climate change and endangered species is a strong choice for all nonfiction collections. Give to readers who are interested in books that show how to make a real difference for the overall welfare of the planet.--Anna Taylor, Darien Library, CT

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes

"This is a good news story, beautifully told by a passionate advocate for healthy seas full of life. Isabelle Groc reveals how sea otters—some of the cutest, furriest, smartest mammals around—are making a triumphant return to the Pacific coast of North America, kick-starting the recovery of this fabulously rich marine ecosystem."—Ben Hoare, former Features Editor, BBC Wildlife Magazine
Classification
Non-fiction
ISBN-13
9781459817371
Lexile Measure
1210
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Orca Book Publishers
Publication date
April 20, 2020
Series
Orca Wild
BISAC categories
JNF003140 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Animals | Mammals
JNF051100 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Science & Nature | Environmental Science & Ecosystems
JNF037020 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Science & Nature | Environmental Conservation & Protection
JNF003270 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Animals | Endangered
Library of Congress categories
Conservation
Sea otter

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