Sandra Markle has been educating young scientists about animals, fish, and reptiles that are on the endangered or vulnerable list for years. Her series has looked at the perils of penguins, rhinos, golden lion tamarins, and amur leopards to name just a few. Her newest addition to the series is about the largest fish in the ocean- the whale shark!  While little is known about this giant,they are considered endangered because of their decreasing population.  Author Markle  takes the reader with the scientists as they try to uncover the plight of these creatures- why are there so few, where are the females and the mature males? Time is of the essence as commercial fishing and climate change continue to threaten the great shark. Text is straightforward and understandable, and supported by photos, maps, charts, an author’s note,and timeline. This selection should be in every school and public library with her other books. Use In units about fish, sharks, climate change, even units on fishing.  Consider it a CREAM selection.

Use with grades 4 and up.

Submitted by Kathy George, Gray Public library, Gray, Maine.