A Journey Under the Sea

"Dive into the clear, cold water and you will find yourself in a forest of liquid light. You can relax and explore--the sea holds you safe in a salty embrace." In a photographic picture book, Foster and Frylinck, cofounders of the Sea Change Project and creators of the documentary My Octopus Teacher, invite readers on a mesmerizing guided tour of the Great African Sea Forest--a kelp forest at the tip of South Africa. While inviting language makes the read feel interactive, light-infused, full-bleed photographic close-ups introduce creatures found within the ecosystem: a wide-eyed seal pup ("Come on, the pup seems to say, swim deeper"), a small rockfish ("you can play a game of hide-and-seek"), and camouflaged octopuses, among others. A visual gem, this underwater jaunt concludes with a dreamlike wish: "Remember the wild, hold it safe in your heart." Captioned thumbnails of each spread offer facts about the featured fauna and their home. An author's note concludes. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)

K-Gr 3--From Foster, creator of the award-winning documentary My Octopus Teacher, and Frylinck, his dive partner, this is a beautiful close-up look at the world beneath the sea. Stunning underwater photographs allow readers to experience the wonder of sea creatures that few will see firsthand. The work reveals hidden treasures such as a view of a pyjama shark's eye that looks like "an alien galaxy blazing in the deepest reaches of space." The narrative is designed as a personal journey into the sea with poetic descriptions ("you will find yourself in a forest of liquid light" and an octopus "waves her arms and shimmers and twinkles her skin"). Back matter describes the environment and creatures from each page and reveal fascinating facts. VERDICT Far more than an informational nature book, this is a powerful expression of love and respect for the ocean and the magnificent creatures that live in its waters. Highly recommended.--Heidi Dechief

"What a magnificent book—a perfect gift for anyone who loves nature." — Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace

"In a gentle, leisurely tone, [Foster and Frylinck] invite readers to 'dive into the clear, cold water . . . relax and explore.' The photographs are colorful and unusual. This is a delight. Dive in!" — Kirkus Reviews