From Shore to Ocean Floor
What’s inside...
From sandy beaches to mysterious, inky depths, this beautiful book is the story of ocean exploration, from shore to ocean floor. Seen from space, Earth is a swirl of blue and white. The blue is Earth's oceans, which cover 70% of its surface, yet the ocean is the most unexplored region of our planet. From Shore to Ocean Floor is the story of how humans went from building the first boats, to discovering the secrets of the deep. Marvel at incredible scientific discoveries, be dazzled by some of the most exciting new species and admire the incredible men and women who took the very first steps below the surface. This spectacularly illustrated book comes from the author and illustrator duo of the award-winning Balloon to the Moon. “This book merges informative text and dynamic graphics to tell the exciting story of oceans and how we use (and abuse) them. . . . Colorful, clear, and chock-full of information, this book invites readers to dive in.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
Discussion points
What are some of the most interesting creatures you learned about from the ocean floor?
How do you think the ocean floor is different from the shore?
Why is it important to protect our oceans and everything living in them?
Can you imagine what a day in the life of a sea turtle might be like?
What would you do if you could explore the ocean floor?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive and animated voice tones when discussing different sea creatures to spark curiosity and excitement.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or creature from the book, enhancing their connection with the story.
After reading, watch a short documentary or video about ocean life to deepen their understanding and make connections with the book.
Ask your child to explain what they learned to another family member, reinforcing their knowledge and confidence in sharing.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respecting Nature
Explanation: The journey from the shore to the ocean floor in the book showcases the diverse ecosystems and the importance of each creature in maintaining the ecological balance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of respecting and preserving natural environments, understanding that each element of an ecosystem plays a crucial role.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The protagonist's exploration from the shore to the deeper parts of the ocean highlights the theme of curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore, ask questions, and seek knowledge about their surroundings, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Perseverance
Explanation: Facing the unknown depths of the ocean, the characters demonstrate courage and determination throughout their journey.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of facing their fears and the value of perseverance when encountering new or challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The characters work together to navigate the challenges of the ocean, showing that teamwork is essential for success.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others, share responsibilities, and support each other to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Conservation Awareness
Explanation: The book discusses the impact of human activities on marine life and the importance of conservation efforts.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to engage in environmentally friendly practices and encourages participation in activities that help preserve the health of our oceans.