Summary

A look at prehistoric sea creatures for ages 8-12

The perfect complement to a curriculum encompassing science, natural history, and vocabulary, Giant Predators of the Ancient Seas explores how scientists use fossil clues to learn about the lives and habitats of the most exciting sea animals that ever lived. Focusing on archaeological digs and finds along the entire southern shore of the United States, the book gives readers an in-depth, straightforward look at the giant creatures that prowled the waters of prehistory. A glossary of unfamiliar terms, an index, and full-color photos and illustrations round out this scientific yet readable guide.

School Library Journal Review

Gr 4-7-One hundred and forty one million years ago, much of North America was under water. In this clearly written title, Cutchins and Johnston introduce readers to the predators that once swam in the seas covering this area. Though similar to modern species, many of these marine animals were much larger than their contemporary counterparts. The authors consider reptiles, including seagoing lizards; fish such as the bulldog tarpon; sea snakes; whales, some of which had vestigial back legs; and sharks, weighing up to 10,000 pounds. They discuss the work of scientists who have reconstructed the creatures through the bits and pieces of teeth and skeletons left behind. Full-color photos, paintings, and charts illustrate and inform. Line drawings of some of the animals next to an outline of a bicycle suggest comparative size. Helpful sidebars are scattered throughout. Both school and public libraries will make use of this accessible volume that will be of interest to both students and budding paleontologists.-Pam Spencer Holley, Young Adult Literature Specialist, Virginia Beach, VA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.