Exploring the Sea

An introduction to the science of oceanography discusses the characteristics, properties, and behavior of the oceans and their inhabitants and examines human exploration--and exploitation--of the ocean environment

ea. vol: 96p. charts. diags. maps. index. (Library of Knowledge Series). CIP. Random. June 1986. pap. $8.95. PLB $9.99. Grade 5-8 A wealth of information is provided in Blair's broad treatment of the earth's oceans and marine technology. The first part of Exploring the Sea summarizes our knowledge of the oceans, how they were formed, their movements, and some of the plants and animals that inhabit them. The second part describes the work of researchers, their equipment, industry's tapping of the sea's resources, and the sea as an important food source. Current explorations such as the locating of the Titanic in 1985 are included. Although broad topics are covered in one to two pages, fascinating details that one would not expect in a general survey are included. The text is further extended by consistent cross referencing, colorful illustrations, labeled charts, and diagrams. For more depth, see Mary L. Settle's Water World (Lodestar, 1984). In Dinosaurs and Other Archosaurs, Zallinger goes beyond descriptions of dinosaurs and other prehistoric reptiles and highlights new theories that challenge some long-held beliefs about the biological functioning and behavior of dinosaurs. The format is similar to that of Exploring the Sea, but the writing is more difficult, and complicated references to scientific classifications will confuse many students. Also, no pronunciation guide is provided. Helen R. Sattler's Dinosaurs of North America (Lothrop, 1981) is more accessible. Nancy Curtin, Port Washington Public Library, N.Y.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.