Shark Quest: Protecting the Ocean's Top Predators

Gr 6 Up—Young begins by dispelling myths about sharks that have proliferated in the media and popular culture. Chapters such as "What's a Shark?" and "Shark Sex" are quick reads and will dispel the creatures' reputations as terrors of the oceans, while also easily engaging readers. Further discussion about ichthyologists, scientists who study fish, and their research in and out of the water follows. Young also provides a balanced discussion about the pros and cons of having sharks in captivity. Ways in which scientists identify and track sharks—GoPro-style cameras called Crittercams, and smartphone apps—will fascinate readers. Shark populations are endangered due in large part to human impact, specifically fishing and finning, and information about how teens can act as advocates and conservationists is provided. A guide at the end presents biological classifications, complete with scientific names, images, and brief information about eight identified orders of sharks.