A fin-tastic gateway to marine science.
Soules takes young readers beneath the surface of shark research in this informative, visually rich career guide. Written for ages 10–14, the book moves beyond sensational images of sharks to examine the methodical scientific work required to understand them: tagging animals, identifying dorsal fins, collecting tissue samples, reviewing underwater footage, tracking migration, and analyzing population data. “I stopped breathing—not from fear. From reverence,” one researcher recalls, neatly capturing the book’s emphasis on attentive observation over manufactured thrills.
Soules is particularly effective at showing that fascination with sharks is only the beginning. Researchers need statistical literacy, species-identification skills, diving and boating competence, composure around large predators, and the patience to wait years for meaningful results. A detailed “Day in the Life” sequence makes these demands concrete, from a 6:00 a.m. vessel departure to tagging, data entry, and video review.
Conservation gives the material urgency. Sharks have survived for approximately 450 million years, yet human activity has placed many populations in serious danger. Soules also confronts sharks’ fearsome cultural reputation, noting that researchers must repeatedly correct misinformation. “Say the truth about sharks out loud,” she urges young readers, while the closing challenge—“Stay fascinated”—captures the book’s guiding spirit.
Colorful illustrations make unfamiliar equipment and fieldwork easy to grasp without reducing the science to spectacle. Strong end matter rounds out the book with shark facts, a helpful glossary, and resources for readers eager to learn more. Serious about both its subject and its audience, this is an unusually substantive introduction to marine research for curious young scientists.
An appealing addition to library and classroom collections focused on marine life, conservation, and STEM.
Pub date April 15, 2026
ISBN 978-1972766163
Print length 38 pages
Price $19.99 Paperback, $2.99 Kindle edition
