Oceanology: The True Account of the Voyage of the Nautilus
#8 of 17 in Ologies Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (437)
What’s inside...
Oceanology takes readers on a captivating journey beneath the ocean waves, following the enigmatic Captain Nemo aboard the Nautilus, a narwhal-shaped submarine. Set in 1863, the narrative is told from the perspective of a sixteen-year-old assistant, the only survivor of the voyage, who later shares his experiences with Jules Verne. The book explores mysteries of the deep sea including diving bells, shipwrecks, coral reefs, ice canyons, and mythical creatures while also touching on the legend of Atlantis. This lavishly illustrated tale merges fact and fiction to delve into the ocean's unfathomable wonders.
Discussion points
What do you think it would feel like to explore the ocean in a submarine like the Nautilus?
Why do you think different creatures prefer different parts of the ocean?
If you could talk to any creature from the book, which one would you choose and what would you ask?
How do you think the ocean is important to life on Earth?
What was the most surprising or exciting thing you learned from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination to visualize the underwater scenes described in the book.
Discuss the roles of various ocean creatures in their habitats to foster an understanding of ecosystem interdependence.
Ask open-ended questions to help your child articulate their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters.
Relate the oceanic explorations in the book to real-world oceanography by watching documentaries or visiting aquariums.
Remind your child of the importance of the ocean in supporting life on our planet and discuss ways we can protect it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: In 'Oceanology', the protagonist's journey on the Nautilus emphasizes the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of knowledge about the oceanic world.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own environments, ask questions, and seek out answers, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Respect and care for marine life
Explanation: The book highlights the diversity of ocean life and the ecosystem, teaching about the different species and the importance of oceans in global ecology.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of conservation and environmental stewardship, applying these values by participating in activities such as beach cleanups or water conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The crew of the Nautilus works together to navigate challenges, showcasing how teamwork is essential in achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This can translate to children working effectively in group settings, learning to cooperate and value each person's contributions whether in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of the unknown
Explanation: As the characters explore mysterious and sometimes perilous parts of the ocean, they display bravery and a can-do attitude.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face new challenges with bravery, using the protagonists as role models for dealing with unfamiliar situations or problems.
Example Lesson: The value of documenting and sharing knowledge
Explanation: The detailed notes and observations made by the characters in the book underscore the importance of recording and sharing scientific findings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to keep journals or share their discoveries with others, enhancing their communication skills and appreciation for science and exploration.