The Children’s Book Review | April 5, 2019
Ocean: A Visual Miscellany
Written by Ricardo Henriques
Illustrated by André Letria
Age Range: 8-12
Publisher: Chronicle Books (2018)
ISBN: 978-1-452-155265
What to Expect: History, Biology, Geology, Interactive
Oceans cover most of the surface of our planet, so it is not surprising that there is an overwhelming amount to learn about them. From the science that helps us understand them to the impact that they have on our everyday lives, human beings simply would not exist without oceans. Oceans: A Visual Miscellany sets out to introduce readers to the many secrets hidden beneath the opaque surface of the ocean, delving into the science, history, and culture of these watery worlds.
As promised in the title, Oceans is a visual miscellany, combining a wealth of highly detailed factual information with beautiful illustrative images. Rendered entirely in soothing shades of blue, gray, black and white, the illustrations remind me of the vintage “ships” wallpaper I once had on my bedroom wall as a child – or of the old-fashioned 1970s hand-drawn children’s encyclopedia illustrations. They help readers to understand a wealth of factual detail, from the different parts of a ship, to the impact of the moon on tides and waves, and the host of strange creatures who dwell in the ocean. The volume also contains activities inviting young readers to experience the science hands-on, such as creating home-made ice-bergs, or waves in a plastic bottle. I also love the end-papers, printed with the many MANY names of different oceans and seas around the world. Beautifully designed and produced, this book would be equally wonderful as an educational tool or as a gift.
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About the Author
Ricardo Henriques is a Portuguese writer who inherited the taste for drawing from his father and the joy of writing from his mother. He is the editor of two magazines, one for adults and another for children.
About the Illustrator
André Letria is a Portuguese illustrator. He has worked as a book and newspaper illustrator as well as a set designer for both theater and animation. His books include If I Were a Book, also published by Chronicle Books.
Ocean: A Visual Miscellany, written by Ricardo Henriques and illustrated by André Letria, was reviewed by Dr. Jen Harrison. Discover more books like Ocean: A Visual Miscellany by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with Marine Biology, Natural History Books, Non-Fiction, Ocean Science, and Picture Book.
