I SPY UNDER THE SEA

An under-the-sea guessing and counting game from the creator of I Spy with My Little Eye (2011).

In alternating spreads, readers receive clues about a sea creature, with the answer revealed in the next. In the first, each verso features an image of the creature’s eye paired with the bold words “I spy with my little eye . . .” If children look carefully, they will spot a full or partial silhouette of the animal, too. The recto provides further information: “something with stripes,” “big claws,” “lots of arms.” A die-cut hole allows youngsters to peek at part of the creature, and an additional hint is provided. Hints vary from leading prompts “I have a funny name” to common observations “I walk sideways on the beach” to the factual “My arms are called tentacles.” Turn the page, and a colorful scene unfolds. Digital art mimics paint with black-ink outlines, creating texture and movement. Each friendly-looking animal is named (clownfish, crab, octopus and more) and the quantity noted. This starts arbitrarily with the number seven and counts down to one shark. His smile, unfortunately, may appear more menacing than merry when he says “I’m a SHARK, and I spy… / YOU!” In the end, children are invited to discover their own world through a spy-hole.

A clever introduction to ocean life.