DART AND DIVE ACROSS THE REEF, by Vassiliki Tzomaka, Thames & Hudson, Aug. 24, 2021, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 6-8)
Dart and Dive Across the Reef, by Vassiliki Tzomaka, transports readers to some of the oceans’ busiest coral reefs.
Get ready to explore the most fascinating places on Earth and meet the amazing fish, whales, mammals and turtles that call the ocean home.
Thirteen resourceful and dramatically different coral reefs come to life on these pages, from dark and chilly Norwegian waters to the extraordinary Galapagos.
Fact-filled spreads about the resilience of the reefs and their inhabitants, as well as the challenges they face emphasize the key role our oceans play in the health of our environment. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson
At first glance, Dart and Dive Across the Reef is just another picture book, but if you look closer, you’ll find that it’s structured more like an encyclopedia. Turn to the beginning and you’ll find a table of contents, which will direct you to everything from reef babies and defense mechanisms to cold water fish and reefs at risk. A glossary and index are also included.
While reading the beginning sections — What is a reef? And Corals — first is probably a good idea, the rest of the book doesn’t have to be read front-to-back. This opens things up for different reading styles and quick perusal.
Author/illustrator Vassiliki Tzomaka provides information in bite-sized nuggets that are as clear as they are informative. And her brightly colored illustrations are bold and engaging.
Dart and Dive Across the Reef is a good option for a wide-range of readers and would be welcome as a coffee table book in many homes, as well.
