Jump Into Science: Coral Reefs

Earle takes children on an undersea journey to explore an amazing "underwater city." She explains the formation of coral reefs and provides information about the conditions needed for survival. In addition, the author introduces other animals that live in and near the reef and stresses the importance of protecting corals from pollution. Matthews's ink-and-gouache paintings bring the colors and variety of this habitat to life. The book also includes a simple experiment that demonstrates how "filter feeders" strain food from the water.

Dr. SYLVIA EARLE is a National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, a marine biologist, and an oceans ambassador. She has been named Hero for the Planet by Time magazine. She's the author of three previous books for children, Dive!, Hello Fish!, and Sea Critters. School Library Journal described the spirit of Dr. Earle's books when reviewing Dive!: "Earle uses a winning combination of factual information and genuine enthusiasm to encourage a new generation of aquanauts." Earle is also the author of numerous books for adults including: Sea Change: A Message of the Oceans, and National Geographic's Wild Ocean and Atlas of the Oceans. When not underwater, Sylvia lives in Oakland, California.