Next Time You See a Seashell - PB329X1
Morgan encourages readers to carefully observe seashells, the homes of mollusks, and along the way discusses life-cycle details (egg cases, progressively larger shells) and the differences between bivalves and gastropods; cautions against separating live mollusks from their shells (which are part of their bodies); and offers evidence of life experiences (a crack or chip may indicate a battle with a predator). Stunning full-color photography dominates each spread; particularly intriguing are the whelk egg case and the hermit crab toting its adopted shell. The text is brief but clear, serving mostly as extended captions for the photographs. Morgan notes that she intends her offering to inspire wonder and stimulate questions rather than provide facts for memorization, and she recommends its use with children who have some prior experience with shells. Appended with photo notes, suggested activities, and a recommended website, this will be welcomed by teachers following the National Science Teachers Association’s observation-based learning guidelines as well as young families returning from a trip to the beach. Grades 1-4. --Kay Weisman