Books
that excite kids, that’s the best kind of summer reading! Sea
creatures, high adventure and a likable main character make The
Shark Whisperer a must-have for your family beach tote (if you’re a
parent) or end-of-school recommendation (if you’re a teacher). The author, Dr. Ellen Prager, shared writing and science activities in a recent
phone interview.
“I
wanted to write a novel that kids would enjoy,” said Dr. Prager, a marine
scientist and author of 15 books. The Shark Whisperer is the first in a five-book middle-grade series that
combines strong storytelling and
science.
The protagonist, Tristan, is a klutzy 12 year old who,
along with fellow Sea Campers, learns to hone a secret talent in order to help
the oceans. Tristan can communicate with
sharks, his friend Samantha understands whales and another boy can leap through
the water like a dolphin. They combine skills to solve a mystery
involving the wanton destruction of sharks (a problem, alas, that is common in
real life as well).
In
writing the book, Dr. Prager drew on her
childhood love of the outdoors and many talks with kids, as an oceans educator. She wanted to share “cool stuff” in a style
that would best connect with her audience.
“I
noticed that any time I mentioned sharks or moray eels, the kids’ eyes would
light up,” she said with a laugh. Kids
also learn about bioluminescent worms, marine labs and the Bermuda Triangle.
After
reading “The Shark Whisperer,” kids might try
some of these writing, science and environmental activities:
*
If you had a “sea talent” like
Tristan and his friends, what might it be?
How would you use it to help the
oceans? You might tell or write down your own story.
*
Find out more about your favorite sea
creature. If this creature is being
harmed by ocean pollution or overfishing, write
a letter or email to your congressional representative.
*
Visit an aquarium and look for
creatures in the book.
*
Pick up trash at the beach or around
waterways (rivers, streams).
*
Eat only sustainable seafood.
*
Visit the book’s website www.tristan-hunt.com for photos, additional activities and
facts and information about the next book in the series.
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