Dive!: The Story of Breathing Underwater
2024 by
on Goodreads (66)
What’s inside...
Gr 2-4–Even though about two-thirds of Earth is covered with water, most people never have an opportunity to see what’s down deep and much of the depths of the ocean remain unexplored. Gall covers the history of underwater exploration and the technology that allows people to go deep under water safely. The book opens with the ancient Greek sponge divers and moves forward through history, chronicling not only multi-person diving apparatus, but also single-person diving equipment. Gall discusses the consequences of diving without some of the safety precautions, like ruptured ear drums, hearing loss, and the bends. Also covered are some of the amazing things found underwater: shipwrecks and animals most people never knew existed. The high-level, realistic artwork is a perfect counterpoint to the factual text, showing not only the scientific machinery of diving, but also the beautiful fish, coral, and other facets of the deep. Many readers will want to spend a lot of time looking at the gorgeous pictures as well as reading the short passages of text.
Why read this book
- Explores marine life through captivating underwater adventures.
- Teaches importance of marine conservation and biodiversity.
- Stimulates curiosity and knowledge about aquatic ecosystems.
- Encourages environmental responsibility in young readers.
The Big Picture
- Emphasizes resilience through underwater exploration
- Encourages curiosity and problem-solving skills
- Ideal for discussing overcoming fears and challenges
- Promotes courage in new experiences
Diversity & Representation
- Features diverse characters exploring underwater ecosystems.
- Incorporates global cultural perspectives on marine life.
- Promotes inclusivity in adventure and scientific discovery.
Age
5-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
proficient
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think it feels like to breathe underwater?
How do the creatures in the story help each other in their underwater world?
What can we learn about teamwork and friendship from the characters?
Can you imagine creating your own underwater adventure? What would it involve?
What are some ways we can help protect the oceans like the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, focusing on the emotions and challenges faced by the characters.
Relate the story’s themes to real-life scenarios that your child might encounter, enhancing their empathy and understanding.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Use this as a starting point to discuss the story’s deeper meanings.
Incorporate simple science facts about underwater life and ecosystems to broaden the educational scope of your discussion.
After reading, consider watching a documentary or visiting an aquarium to see real underwater life, linking the fiction of the book to the reality of our world.
What parents love
Educational yet keeps my child fully engaged!
Lovely illustrations, my child feels like they’re underwater!
Perfect balance of fun facts and story.
Addresses environmental awareness in an age-appropriate way.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence and resilience
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Dive!: The Story of Breathing Underwater' encounters challenges while learning to dive, but persists through practice and patience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply persistence in their daily tasks and hobbies, understanding that learning new skills requires continuous effort and resilience.
Example Lesson: The importance of safety and preparation
Explanation: Before diving, the characters in the book take safety measures and learn about the equipment, highlighting the importance of being prepared.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to always prioritize safety and prepare thoroughly before engaging in any activity, reinforcing the habit of responsible behavior.
Example Lesson: Respect and care for the environment
Explanation: The underwater world in the book is depicted with beauty and detail, instilling a sense of wonder and respect for marine life.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be mindful of their environment and promotes ecological awareness and actions such as not littering and participating in environmental conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and trust
Explanation: Diving often requires partners or teams, and the characters in the story have to rely on each other for safety and support.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of cooperating and trusting others, whether in school projects or family activities, understanding that teamwork can achieve greater results and ensure safety.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: The main character faces initial fear of diving but confronts and overcomes it, showing bravery.
Real-World Application: This can help children face their own fears and anxieties, encouraging them to tackle new experiences and challenges with courage.