Reading Level: Grades 1-2 Interest Level: Grades K – 3
Manatees are true gentle giants. Though many weigh more than 1,000 pounds, they do not use their size to overpower other sea creatures. They spend a lot of their time peacefully eating underwater grasses. Young students will close this title understanding how the manatee earned its “sea cow” nickname.
'Ocean Life Up Close is an extensive series that covers a diverse range of underwater animals. Up-close and colorful photographs for each animal increase the appeal for young readers. Recurring features include the “Species Spotlight,” which highlights one specific variety of the animal with basic information including life span, depth range in the ocean, the range of the habitat, and its conservation status. Other areas of focus include relative sizes and animal life-cycles, presented in an easy-to-understand and visually attractive format. THOUGHTS: This series is wonderful for classes doing research, especially if each student needs a book. Each title presents a lot of quality information, informative for students and teachers alike, and is easy to understand, with bright pictures. The series is also ideal for a wide range of grades.', Emily Woodward, The Baldwin School
