Review: A fun introduction to dolphins
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 20, 2014
During the years that my wife and I scuba dived, one of our most memorable experiences was diving with dolphins in the Bahamas. The operator would lead one of their trained dolphins out into open water with a small group of divers, then the dolphins would interact with the divers. It was a fascinating experience, one we'll never forget. Obviously we were not the only ones who loved dolphins, as evidenced by the popularity of the Flipper TV series and a hit movie.The author has done a nice job of introducing dolphins and their habits in a simple way with text and photographs. The book is aimed at children, but adults will likely learn a thing or two about dolphins. After describing the general characteristics of dolphins, including their social interaction with other dolphins, and how young dolphins ("calves") are raised, the book describes several species of dolphins, including the familiar bottlenose dolphin (like Flipper), but also some less well known species such as the Atlantic spotted dolphin, dusky dolphin, Risso's dolphin, and even a freshwater dolphin species, the Amazon River Dolphin. The book also mentions some species of dolphins that are in danger of becoming extinct. The book concludes with some "Dolphin Fun Facts," with interesting tidbits such as:* The Orca, also known as a Killer Whale, is actually a kind of dolphin, and not a whale at all.* Some dolphins have as many as 100 teeth.* Dolphins can live as long as fifty years.* Dolphins cannot see color, only shades of gray.Recommended as an introduction to dolphins for both children and grown-ups.