In the World of Whales, written by Michelle Cusolito and illustrated by Jessica Lanan. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House. 2025. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

"The free diver moves slowly,
like a merman, 
copying the whales' movements,
graceful,
patient,
allowing the whales to approach. 
He knows he's a visitor 
in their watery world."

Poring over the pages of this wondrous book will leave readers full of admiration for the beauty that is constantly found in the natural world. The sun sparkling on the clear blue water of the title page is just the invitation needed to turn the page and get on with it. 

A red boat with four people aboard is in search of sperm whales. Great good luck has them spotting a clan near the water's surface. There is no clear understanding for what is to come. The boat moves in slowly; one diver with camera slides over the side; he floats cautiously toward the whales after filling his lungs and gliding down into the sea. 

As he watches, he notes that the whales are very close to each other, and also moving calmly. A cloud of blood surges into the water. It gives the diver pause as he wonders about the cause. In fact, it is the birth of a newborn calf. What a marvelous sight it is! Just as the diver must return to the surface, helper whales must help push the calf to the surface for air. 

The whales show awareness for the person in their midst. Will they worry for the safety of the newborn? The man makes no sudden moves, recognizing his newness in their world. More whales arrive. As he returns once more to the surface, the calf does the same. Mama moves her calf toward the other whales ... an introduction to the newcomers. The man watches as the whales' clicks impart their messages. 

Each watch the other. The man kicks up, and then dives once more. Mama moves Baby toward him, allowing him a role in the dance they do. Once the baby is safe to be on its own, the whales all prepare for a deep dive. The diver is left alone and speechless. What a remarkable life-changing day! 

Back matter includes a captioned description of the sperm whale and its anatomy, a note about free diving, more information about whales, a list of resources, and a note from both author and illustrator. The author explains that her story is based on two divers who are the only known humans to have seen the birth of a whale. Her research is vast and precise as shown in her long list of resource materials used. The illustrator did the same, as readers will learn from her included notes.