Otter on His Own: The Story of a Sea Otter (Smithsonian Oceanic Collection)

Rating:
Summary: I don't have time to write reviews but...
Review: I just had to say, in case anyone is looking for science books which can both entertain and inform their young children, this title is a delight! The illustrations are endearing, but the text is what stands out in the book, for--unlike most children's "science" twaddle out there--it is truly lyrical. Children don't need short, choppy sentences which merely regurgitate bland facts in a shotgun approach to "teaching" or "informing". That kind of writing certainly doesn't make for interesting reading! My young reader was delighted with the tale of young Otter, my 2-year-old equally enthralled. I know a book is a keeper when I am asked to read it again immediately.

This book has both literary and scientific merit. A rare find in my search for homeschool materials that can impart knowledge, love for learning and the enjoyment of reading quality prose, all in one appealing package. Not sure as I type this what age is recommended, but my son is currently about halfway through first grade level reading and will be able to tackle this by himself within a year at most. A child up to age 8 would be delighted by this book.

Rating:
Summary: A scientifically accurate, highly enjoyable tale
Review: Otter On His Own: The Story Of A Sea Otter is a children's story by Doe Boyle about a young otter growing up in the natural world. From learning how to eat sea urchins to exploring the underwater cove near where he was born and the world beyond, Otter On His Own is a scientifically accurate, highly enjoyable tale. Simple yet inspiring color illustrations by Robert Lawson add depth to the watery world of the otter pup.

Rating:
Summary: Terrible
Review: This book is laborious, overwritten and poor quality. It is as if the author is trying to demonstrate how many words one can fit into a sentence. For insight into Otters, at a child's reading level, choose a different book.