SEARCH FOR A GIANT SQUID

The rarely seen giant squid is pursued by a research crew in a choose-your-own-adventure–style science book.

An ocean expedition sounds fun and exciting, but it takes a lot of work and a lot of people to pull it off. A large group of scientists and crew, all of whom appear to be people of color, sets out to learn more about giant squids. The book first introduces the array of workers on a research vessel, then later allows readers to select a pilot, a submersible, and a site to explore, among other options. Some dead ends lead back to earlier in the adventure. Those who make it to the end are rewarded by seeing the squid in its natural habitat. Along the way, the author, a Kirkus reviewer, informs readers about the largest squid ever (43 feet long) and the difference between a submarine and a human-occupied submersible; excitingly, readers are also told that “the giant squid’s natural habitat is the twilight zone. If you tried to swim there, your body would get squished by water pressure.” The friendly and fun exploration never gets too far into the science or the tools that it loses sight of the human faces driving the work with their preparation and skills.

An engaging, fun, and deep guide to how sea research happens.