Shell Day

"The 'Earth Day' series takes to the seas with the newest installment, looking at shells and what lives in them. Marine biologist Scales (Cambridge Univ.; Around the Ocean in 80 Fish and Other Sea Life ) views shells as ‘gateway treasures’ to the ocean; the mollusks in the book include marine, freshwater, and terrestrial species. Each chapter shares the common and scientific name of the mollusk, where it’s found, the time of day readers meet it, and a detailed pen-and-ink illustration. For marine species for whom tides influence much of their lives, tidal regimes are included. Scales offers exciting glimpses into the lives of mollusks and brings context to the animal’s life, explaining the whys behind its way of being. It may be scientific, but it is a magical peek into their world. Chapters hint at the bleak future these creatures face if manmade threats are allowed to continue. The book ends with a call to action, encouraging readers to make minor life changes that have a significant impact on the oceans. VERDICT Ocean lovers and shell admirers will find plenty to enjoy; a must for libraries with the rest of the series in their collection.”

"The 'Earth Day' series takes to the seas with the newest installment, looking at shells and what lives in them. Marine biologist Scales (Cambridge Univ.; Around the Ocean in 80 Fish and Other Sea Life ) views shells as ‘gateway treasures’ to the ocean; the mollusks in the book include marine, freshwater, and terrestrial species. Each chapter shares the common and scientific name of the mollusk, where it’s found, the time of day readers meet it, and a detailed pen-and-ink illustration. For marine species for whom tides influence much of their lives, tidal regimes are included. Scales offers exciting glimpses into the lives of mollusks and brings context to the animal’s life, explaining the whys behind its way of being. It may be scientific, but it is a magical peek into their world. Chapters hint at the bleak future these creatures face if manmade threats are allowed to continue. The book ends with a call to action, encouraging readers to make minor life changes that have a significant impact on the oceans. VERDICT Ocean lovers and shell admirers will find plenty to enjoy; a must for libraries with the rest of the series in their collection.”

“Do you ever ask yourself, What do mollusks do all day? Or perhaps even, What is a mollusk? You’ll find the answers here. You’re sure to learn something, as I did, while you enjoy this informative book that highlights members of the second-most diverse but often-overlooked animal phylum, which includes snails, squids, clams, and slugs. Though still animals, those creatures are about as distantly related to you and me as possible. They offer a different and fascinating take on life.”

“Marine biologist Helen Scales introduces readers to twenty-four remarkable species of mollusks, each revealing fascinating behaviors that unfold over the course of a typical molluscan day. Beautifully illustrated and packed with engaging and informative stories, this book offers delightful insights into the lives of those extraordinary animals.”

“With the soul of a poet and a talent for finding the most intriguing trivia about familiar seaside sights, marine biologist Scales turns the mundane into the magical.”

“A sprawling, ambitious underwater journey studded with fascinating tidbits.”

“Punctures assumptions with the power of a cone snail dart.”

“An enchanting, accessible tour of the seashell and its place and purpose within the natural world.”

“Scales . . . brings a marine biologist’s eye and aficionado’s heart to these musings on seashells. . . . [Her] eclectic approach to this ancient bridge between the human and natural worlds conveys her curiosity and appreciation.”

“A fascinating journey into the strange and captivating world of mollusks. Carefully researched and entertaining throughout. . . . Relentlessly interesting.”

Helen Scales is a marine biologist, author, and broadcaster who teaches at the University of Cambridge. She is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine and The Guardian and is a storytelling ambassador for the Save Our Seas Foundation. Her most recent books include What the Wild Sea Can Be and Ocean Art: From the Shore to the Deep . Aaron John Gregory is a scientific illustrator and professional aquarist living on the coast in Pacifica, California with his wife and two daughters. Shell Day is his fifth collaboration with Helen Scales.