The illustrations, fitting together like panels in a quilt as big as the nation, also show both America and Americans. On some of the pages she stitches together a montage of scenes incorporating snippets of other Guthrie lyrics. With a biography and a tribute by fellow folksinger Pete Seeger, the ideals behind this song and book ought to be part of everyone's Fourth of July celebration, as a reminder that the fight for independence goes on today. The ultimate summer getaway might be a chance to swim with the dolphins and learn more about these friendly, intelligent and social animals. If you're not going on an ocean vacation, and since there don't seem to be a pod of dolphins on Table Rock Lake, the next best thing would be to read this fascinating book.
Dolphins have a lot to teach humans.
Marine biologists study the mammal and learn how important it is to the ecology of the ocean. Scientists with the U.S. Navy study the dolphin's streamlined physique and finely tuned ability to navigate by echolocation to help them design submarines. And, remarkably, therapists have used the dolphin to interact with sick or disabled children, often helping them make tremendous progress in their recovery. The scientific facts are presented in a very readable manner, and the photography gives you a sense of being underwater, which ought to cool you off on a hot summer day. Nancy Parry McCluer is the promotion specialist for the Springfield-Greene County Library District.