"Swim to the coral reef.
They must be hiding here!
Small fish such as round batfish and triggerfish
find safe places to rest at night in the holes, caves,
and cracks of coral reefs. A reef is like an underwater
hotel where they can hide from nocturnal predators
such as moray eels, which sleep during the day and
hunt at night."
I was invited to visit with a group of fourth and fifth grade students today, and it was a wonderful to be there. They have been looking at picture books for their own Mock Caldecott this month. It is obvious that they are learning a lot about illustration, about book publishing, and about the importance of sharing illustrated books with middle years students. They were totally invested in sharing their ideas and hearing what I had to say about the variety in illustrator strategies used to complement the stories they are loving.
Their teacher has talked to them about the costs of publication, and how that might change how a book is presented. They know that changes away from what is typical can be at a much greater cost. Looking at this atmospheric and attention-grabbing new book by Thea Lu offered a chance for some discussion. Bravo to Candlewick Press for honoring this book in that way.
The first thing to notice is that the book is bound on the horizontal - a not-often-used perspective. The cover shows a boat floating on the water's surface, while the water below is filled with creatures that reminded students of sea monsters. A closer look shows a person standing at the edge of the boat and ready to dive into the dark waters. Lu's first-person narration of the scuba diver's adventure assures the reader a front row seat for the action.
While the main text is uncomplicated and easy to understand, older readers will find that the fold-out flaps offer further, more specific material (in smaller font) to enhance the learning. The artwork is brilliant, which is why we were taking a close look at the book. The changing perspectives as the diver descends into the depths show what's happening above, below and all around them. The moonlight is reflected on the surface, while it is the diver's headlamp that allows readers to really see the creatures that dwell in this shadowy habitat. There is a real sense of being there as the diver explores and makes discoveries below the surface. Calm waters, yet filling her spreads with movement, Ms. Lu has a gift for creating wonder in her mixed media illustrations. Her color palette matches the mood of her story beautifully.
The last image definitely ups the discussion as the book ends.
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