The Whale’s Song: Discover the Giants of our Oceans

Full of beautiful illustrations and carefully explained, engaging information, ‘The Whale’s Song’ is perfect for sparking curiosity about the oceans and the incredible creatures which inhabit them.

The book opens by suggesting that the Earth should, in fact, be called ‘the Sea’ as 70% of the planet’s surface is covered with water. With an explanation as to why this is mostly salt water, the author then explores water came to Earth, why we see the sea as blue and factors which affect this. Having set the scene in this way, cetaceans are then introduced and details about these fascinating creatures are shared through both text and illustration.

So much information is packed into this absorbing book! The author’s interest and enthusiasm for their subject is infectious and it is impossible to read this without being completely absorbed into the subject. Readers who love lots of detail will really appreciate the full, careful explanations given whilst those who prefer to skim and select their facts will be drawn to the fact boxes and sections of coloured text. Either way, there is a huge amount to learn here!

Information about whaling and the awful impact this had- and still has- on whales is included and the negative affect of the marine park entertainment industry is also discussed. The book concludes with information from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) showing which species are most at risk.

A section on myths and legends surrounding whales shows how these creatures have inspired people across the world. Each section is full of stunning illustrations, making the book a real joy to explore. Even the end papers are used to show the different species of whales, giving an idea of their comparative sizes. Perfect for enriching the school curriculum or enjoying anywhere, this is an absolute joy of a book.

The Whale’s Song: Discover the Giants of our Oceans

Rossana Bossu, translated by Margaret Greenan

Post Wave ISBN: 978-1836270195

You can read my review of ‘The Jellyfish Garden’ here

The Whale Watchers

It’s the first day of the summer holidays, but Finn is far from excited. His marine biologist mother is dragging him and his little brother, Jesse, off to wet, cold Scotland, so she can study the whales which live there. Finn has become increasingly anxious about plastic pollution in the oceans and is struggling with a growing sense of futility of his mother’s work or any action to save the planet. However, a chance encounter with a girl and her dog leads him into an adventure which proves everyone can make a difference.

This is the first novel published by Owlet Press. I am a great fan of their picture books as they always offer something a little different so had high expectations of ‘The Whale Watchers’- and I was not disappointed.

The story is successful in many ways. Firstly, it is a real love letter to whales. Bursting with information about these incredible creatures, there is so much for the reader to learn without even realising they are doing so. I had no idea, for example, of the essential role whales play in combatting climate change or that they re-distribute nutrients across the oceans. Additional information at the end of the book adds to that covered in the story and introduces the reader to the Moray Firth Dolphin and Whale Conservation Centre. There is even some advice from real life whale watchers.

The book also addresses the very genuine concerns many children have about the future of the planet. Finn embodies these feelings as he battles with the negative thoughts he has about plastic pollution and extinction, but ultimately, the story is full of hope. He comes to realise that every small action any of us makes combines with those of others, making a huge difference. The information section also includes practical advice for things children can do - real steps for change- offering them a sense of how they can contribute and make a difference.

Most importantly, ‘The Whale Watchers’ is a very readable and accessible story which children will both relate to and enjoy. The relationship between Finn and his brother is lovely and Jesse’s enthusiasm for whales is contagious. With lovely black and white illustrations by Amberin Huq throughout, the story is broken into achievable chapters, using a clear, easy to read font.

‘The Whale Watchers’ would make an excellent class story or engaging independent read.

The Whale Watchers Dougie Poynter, illustrated by Amberin Huq

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339548