Explore the Wild Coast with Sam and Crystal (Explore with Sam and Crystal, 1)

A beautifully illustrated story that teaches children about marine biology and the coastal environment of BC and the Pacific Northwest.

Sam and Crystal travel with their Aunt Kate and Uncle Charlie to a remote location on the Northwest Pacific Coast. Along the way, they see white-sided dolphins, killer whales, tufted puffins, bald eagles, harbour seals, sea lions, sea otters, crabs, sea stars, and much more. Through the character of Aunt Kate, a retired marine biologist, the children explore basic marine ecology concepts. Ada, an Indigenous woman from nearby Salmon Bay Village, is Aunt Kate’s best friend. Through the words of Ada, the children experience a glimpse into an Indigenous view of knowledge and learning. The two ways of knowing overlap and reinforce the importance of sustainability and respecting all the creatures of nature.

This lavishly illustrated book contains colourful and scientifically accurate drawings and paintings. Although a fictional story, Explore the Wild Coast with Sam and Crystal contains a wealth of accessible marine ecology facts and has been informed by Indigenous educators and elders.

Gloria Snively is a professor emeritus of science, environmental, and marine education in the Faculty of Education, University of Victoria; a former classroom teacher of primary and junior secondary grades; and a founding member of the Northwest Association of Marine Educators. In addition to the Sam and Crystal series, she is the author of the classic bestselling field guide Exploring the Seashore in British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon and (with Wanosta'a7 Lorna Williams) Knowing Home: Braiding Indigenous Science with Western Science.

Karen Gillmore has been an artist since she could hold crayons. In addition to being a children’s book illustrator―most notably of the Sam and Crystal series―she also draws and writes comics and illustrates graphic novels.