Book Review: "Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster"

Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster by Mary M. Cerullo is a children's non fiction book. This book details the search for the 'sea monster' of the deeps, the beast that has terrified and enthralled people for centuries, the giant squid. Doctor Clyde Roper is a scientist that is particularly fascinated by the giant squid, and Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster chronicles the search and his discoveries surrounding this secretive creature. While there is still much to learn, there are many fascinating facts about the giant squid, its habitat,its cousins, its prey, its predators, and what it is a vital part of the ocean's ecosystem.

Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster is an interesting and informational read, complete with full color photographs and illustrations enhancing the text. Readers will discover the historic tales about the giant squid and learn about the current developments in the search for this evasive animal. This member of the cephalopod family is an intrinsic part to the ecosystem, particularly important to the sperm whale population and strongly dependent on the deep sea coral, which is being destroyed by some kinds of fishing. The facts, photographs, and illustrations are woven together well. The effect is a true life adventure story that will educate while entertaining.

I think that Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster would be perfect for any non fiction collection intended for elementary school students. The squid, particularly the giant squid, still holds an air of mystery that makes the book that much more interesting to readers. While we still do not have the whole picture of how the giant squid lives, this book perfectly details what we know, what we think we know, and why we may never get to know everything there is to know about this fascinating creature. The glossary and resources for further research will be particularly helpful in a classroom setting.