Smart About Sharks
About Animals Series
on Goodreads (254)
What’s inside...
Owen Davey returns to nonfiction to explore the world of sharks, those mysterious and often misunderstood creatures of the sea. Through exciting and detailed illustrations, as well as whimsical text and brash design, Davey educates young readers about the various types of sharks, some deadly and others not-so-deadly. 'Smart About Sharks' is an engaging and informative book that presents a wide array of information about these thrilling sea residents, debunking common misconceptions and celebrating their diversity.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes sharks such interesting creatures?
How do sharks help maintain the balance in ocean ecosystems?
Can you imagine what the ocean would be like without sharks?
What was the most surprising fact you learned about sharks from this book?
How can we help protect sharks in their natural habitat?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about sharks, emphasizing empathy towards these often misunderstood creatures.
Discuss the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems and why their survival is crucial to ocean health.
Relate the facts from the book to real-world conservation efforts and explore together how humans can impact marine life.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child to describe what they see and think about the different types of sharks.
After reading, watch a documentary or visit an aquarium to further enrich your child’s understanding and appreciation of sharks.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for marine life
Explanation: Through engaging illustrations and facts, 'Smart About Sharks' educates children about the importance of sharks in the ocean ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and advocate for marine conservation, understanding the role sharks play in balancing marine populations.
Example Lesson: Importance of biodiversity
Explanation: 'Smart About Sharks' presents various shark species, highlighting the diversity within the shark family and their different roles in the ocean.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the concept of biodiversity and the need to protect different species to maintain ecological balance.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The book challenges common myths about sharks, encouraging children to question misinformation and seek truth.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply critical thinking to differentiate between fact and fiction, a skill useful in academic settings and everyday decision-making.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity
Explanation: Owen Davey's detailed exploration of shark anatomy and behaviors fosters a curiosity about marine biology and science among young readers.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to pursue learning in science fields or participate in environmental conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: By dispelling fears and misconceptions about sharks, the book promotes a more empathetic view of these often misunderstood creatures.
Real-World Application: Children learn to empathize with animals, understanding that every creature has a role in the environment, which is fundamental to fostering responsible and caring behavior towards all living beings.