Drew Sheneman, The deep end: Real facts about the ocean, HarperCollins Publishers, December 2023, 48 pp., RRP $29.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780063224551
The deep end: Real facts about the ocean takes a creative approach to the non-fiction picture book genre. The book combines real life facts about ocean life and exploration with the fictional story of Brownbeard the Pirate and his parrot first mate, Alan, as they set off on a quest to find treasure. Along the way, they learn facts about ocean creatures, as well as exploring the history of ocean exploration. Towards the end, Brownbeard and Alan learn about some of the threats facing ocean inhabitants, leading the pair to dedicate their futures to ocean exploration rather than conquest and plunder. Many of the facts contained in the book are discovered through dialogue between a scientist and Brownbeard, with readers encouraged to use their best pirate voice!
Creator Drew Sheneman is an editorial cartoonist, and you can see that influence in the fun illustrations. For example, a blue whale is shown next to a banana for size comparison, and a hairy-armed yeti crab is shown looking for a comb. This book will be a hit with kids over six, particularly those with an interest in the ocean and a sense of humour.
Reviewed by Laura Holloway
