Oceans Seasons By Ron Hirschi Illustrated by Kirsten Carlson

Hardcover ISBN: 9780977742325, $15.95

About the book: Seasons change in the ocean much as they do on land. Spring brings new plants and baby animals, while summer oceans are aglow with sparkly plankton lights, and autumn winds blow across the open water. In winter the humpback whales migrate to warmer waters, just as some land animals move to warmer climates. In fun, fanciful form, children learn about plants and animals that are joined through the mix of seasons, food webs and habitats beneath the waves. While set in the Pacific, similar changes occur in all the world's ocean.

Review: This book discusses the seasons of the sea - just as the land surface of the Earth has seasons, so does the sea. Plants and animals throughout this book are presented with interesting facts about the ocean. This would be a great book for ages preschool through elementary.  The incorporation of math in the story line adds interest and depth to the value of this lovely book.

The illustrations are colorful with gently flowing lines and coloration and will keep the reader intrigued. The text is engaging and lyrical.

The back of the book contains information to help with educational pursuit of ocean ecology in the way of little tear-out cards (which can be copied or also downloaded from the website). Information on the seasons of life, food chain of life, and also yearly seasons is fleshed out for use as an add-in for curriculum, great for libraries, super for pre-beach trips. Further value is afforded by Arbordale with the reading and math quizzes provided on the website here and also here.

I recommend this book for any younger child who loves the ocean and wants to learn more about what is under the sea.

Author Ron Hirschi (Ocean Seasons) lives on a small island in western Washington and walks the beach most days of the year. As a biologist, he also spends much time on the water, learning about and helping salmon and other aquatic fish and wildlife. As an author, he brings the excitement of what he learns onto the pages of books for young readers. Ron has written over 50 children’s books. His books have been listed as Best Science Trade Books of the year, and won the John Burroughs Nature Book among other awards. 

Illustrator Kirsten Carlson is fascinated by animals and nature. Her background in biology, scientific illustration and design has given her the tools to share stories about the natural world through illustration. She believes illustrating children's books are a wonderful way to connect others to nature. 

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Arbordale to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are our own.