High Tide for Horseshoe Crabs

The book does a great job of fostering interest in scientific inquiry done in the real world. It shows scientists and observers taking data on the horseshoe crabs and their behaviors.

Author: Lisa Jahn Schnell
Illustrator: Alan Marks
Year Published: 2015
ISBN: 978-1-58089-604-7

Summary

This charming picture book describes the annual spawning of horseshoe crabs at Delaware Bay. Softly hued, delicately detailed watercolor spreads depict the events: the crabs gathering on the beach to mate and lay their eggs in the sand, migratory birds arriving to feast on the eggs that haven't been buried deeply enough, scientists and volunteers coming to watch, and the baby crabs eventually hatching and making their way to the sea. Brief, bold action statements introduce the different sections, and the language provides analogies children can grasp ("Some of these birds weigh only as much as a handful of paper clips. Still, they are powerful enough to fly thousands of miles."). Readers will learn about the spawning process, as well as how scientists and volunteers tag these animals for identification purposes. Thorough back matter provides more information, including how products made from the crabs can benefit people. End pages present detailed anatomical diagrams of the top and underside of a horseshoe crab. Schnell also lets readers know how they can witness the spawning for themselves. VERDICT A wonderful introduction to these creatures and the importance of monitoring them. A particularly strong addition for Eastern seaboard locations, as well as for collections across the country.

Evaluation

Appropriateness: Medium
Authority: High
Accuracy: High
Liteary Artistry: Medium
Appearance: High

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

The book does a great job of fostering interest in scientific inquiry done in the real world. It shows scientists and observers taking data on the horseshoe crabs and their behaviors.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

The pictures and story line provoke students to ask a lot of questions about the behaviors of the horseshoe crabs. They show very interesting details that will intrigue students.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book more presents information about the animals and their habits, but could encourage students to do more research on their own or want to discover more about different animal behaviors.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

It might be a little more difficult to write a lesson plan off this book but could be a good introduction book into the ocean or beach habitat.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

The information presented is very scientifically accurate and all presented in an age appropriate manner.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book is very obviously presented as facts and the people portrayed in the book seem to be based on scientists in real life.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are beautiful and very detailed!

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is written very well for the middle to upper elementary grades.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

The scientists and the people visiting the beach seem to be multicultural, but the people are not the main focus of the story. There do not seem to be any stereotypes.

Is the book free from gender bias?

There seems to be no gender bias.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

There seem to only be science ideas that are presented but the story could start a jumping off point for math concepts.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

The book shows how fascinating the life sciences are and the joy of inquiry.

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level