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The Tales of Scuba Steve: Isfjell Point

The Tales of Scuba Steve: Isfjell Point, penned by Steven Kamlet, offers a thrilling exploration of the underwater world, inviting young readers into an adventure that is as fascinating as it is informative. This engaging narrative follows Scuba Steve, a professional diver, who leads a group of spirited youngsters at a unique swimming camp. Together, they embark on an extraordinary journey that goes beyond mere swimming lessons and into lessons about life and our environment.

Upon diving into the water, the group encounters ever-changing conditions, and when they resurface, they are transported to an icy Arctic landscape. Taking refuge in a cabin, they become aware of their location and the pressing environmental concerns of pollution and plastic waste. This discovery leads them to direct their efforts toward environmental conservation in a sincere and inspiring way. Their adventure continues with breathtaking experiences such as animal encounters from the region and the awe-inspiring spectacle of the aurora borealis.

Kamlet crafts the story with wit, humor, and a creative flair that keeps the reader guessing with every twist and turn. The characters are lively and endearing, filled with playful banter and clever exchanges that add charm and amusement to the tale. What truly sets this book apart, though, is its integration of educational content, such as detailed explanations of natural phenomena like glacial calving. The information is presented in an accessible manner, complemented by a section featuring photographs and facts to further enhance learning.

The presentation of the book is equally captivating, with expressive illustrations that burst with personality and unique designs. These artistic elements lend a fresh and original style to the book, making it visually delightful.

As a professional scuba diver, Kamlet’s passion for nature, the sea, and the environment shines through the pages, providing a genuine and heartfelt touch. While the book successfully conveys messages of environmental awareness in a positive and engaging way, I think some readers may find certain sentences in the explanations a bit complex. This minor detail, however, does not diminish the overall enjoyment and educational value of the book.

The Tales of Scuba Steve: Isfjell Point stands as a delightful and fun-filled tale that not only entertains but educates children on vital environmental subjects. The mixture of adventure, humor, and thoughtful insights makes it a must-read for young audiences, encouraging them to explore the world around them and take an active role in preserving it.

Pages: 102 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C9FW2QMS

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Imani’s Undersea Adventure

Imani is a young Black girl visiting the aquarium with her grandfather. At first, she is scared of the sharks she sees swimming by in the tanks. But then, her grandfather tells her about sharks, scuba diving, marine biologists, and marine archaeologists. These conversations lead to deeper discussions about Imani’s ancestry and family history.

Author T. M. Jackson has written a captivating children’s book that touches on many topics of importance. The story starts with a simple visit to the aquarium and learning about a scuba diver and their equipment. It then introduces readers to Black marine biologists Ms. Jasmin Grahm and Ms. Carlee Jackson and the first certified Black female scuba diver Ms. Shirley Marshall – Lee. Next, Imani’s grandfather explains the significance of their achievements in the world of marine science and for Black women. Readers will learn about Black history in an age-appropriate manner from her grandpa’s stories. For example, stories about how slaves were brought to America and how Black families could not swim in pools; thus, many never learned how to swim. These topics are often glossed over or omitted entirely for the early elementary age level. Ms. Jackson, however, has presented them in a manner that is educational and conversational. Readers will feel like they are walking through the aquarium with Imani and her grandfather.

Accompanying this thought-provoking children’s book is the richly detailed artwork of Darwin Marfil that captures the wonder of Imani and the thoughtful pondering of her grandfather as he teaches her about her past. Included at the end of the book is a list of resources that families and teachers can use to explore aquatic and marine sciences more in-depth.

Imani’s Undersea Adventure is a profoundly thoughtful children’s book that will captivate children. Teachers and parents will appreciate the accurate historical information presented eloquently and in an age-appropriate manner.

Pages: 36 | ASIN : B09JVSJN8W

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