Alison Formento

Synopsis: This book tells the story of Mr. Tate's students as they help clean up a local beach and learn about all the creatures in the sea. One whale, two giant sea turtles, three marlins. . . and more. This story explores the environmental impact and importance of the seas, and how crucial it is to keep them healthy. Ages 5 - 6 years.

Response: The premise of this story is lovely, and it should work to illustrate for children just how important it is to keep our beaches and oceans clean. However, the wind up to the counting seems to take too long and be a bit preachy and labored. Some younger children may struggle to engage with the beginning and end but will enjoy the counting. This book could be a nice crossover tool for incorporating math concepts into an environmental science unit.… (more)