Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/01/2021 The author of Plastic, Ahoy! (2014) and Sea Otter Heroes (2017), Newman again turns her attention to the ocean. Overruling the idea of the world’s five oceans, she notes that since they are interconnected, there is only one ocean. And she asks, because the ratio of ocean to land on planet Earth is 70 to 30, shouldn’t we be calling it “Planet Ocean?” The book follows Crawley, an underwater explorer and photographer, as a knowledgeable guide to three very different regions connected by ocean waters, the Coral Triangle north of Australia, the Salish Sea bordering Washington State and British Columbia, and the Arctic. Newman’s text describes each place visited, while Crawley’s many attractive photos introduce the people and animals affected by environmental changes there, such as acidification, pollution, melting ice, overfishing, and rising sea levels. For each region, illustrated features offer the viewpoints of individuals living there. Presenting a good deal of information within a well-organized framework, the book conveys a strong sense of urgency to clean the global ocean and restore the ecosystems it supports. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 06/01/2021 Gr 5–8—This short chapter book begins with the important fact that the Earth is comprised of 70% water and only 30% landmass, so a healthy ocean is crucial for the entire well-being of the planet. Three chapters focus on the effects of climate change on the ocean in specific areas such as coral cities in the southern Pacific Ocean, the Salish Sea in the northwest United States bordering Canada, and the Arctic region. All are teetering on the edge of environmental disaster that threatens not only the land, but the health, well-being, and livelihood of the people who live there. The chapters are written in easy-to-understand language and include beautiful photographs taken by professional diver Crawley. "In Their Own Words" sections highlight the contributions of individuals (including youth activists) who are working to prevent further environmental damage in each area. Younger readers will appreciate colorful illustrations that provide visual descriptions of more advanced concepts, such as ocean acidification. The final chapter aims to inspire readers to take their own small steps to save "planet ocean" with a list titled "Go Blue with Annie." A short glossary, source notes, a selected bibliography, and recommended reading round out this lovely, informative title. VERDICT Readers who love the ocean and who are interested in diving will enjoy Crawley's descriptions of the equipment and skills needed in the sport. Libraries looking for newer titles on climate change will want to consider this one.—Anne Jung-Mathews, Plymouth State Univ., NH - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.