Book Review: High Tide for Horseshoe Crabs

HIGH TIDE FOR HORSESHOE CRABS by Lisa Kahn Schnell is an informational picture book exploring the migration of horseshoe crabs to the shores of Delaware Bay.

Lisa Kahn Schnell begins each two-page spread with a short, active sentence that highlights the key idea. Next, she tells the story of coastal ecology and migration using age-appropriate details. This combination is effective for a read-aloud experience.

Designed for ages 3-7, this well-written science narrative is effective in sharing accurate scientific information as well as the passion of scientists and naturalists. The book concludes with detailed science information, a map, and additional information sources including website suggestions.

Alan Marks’ illustration beautiful illustrations combine ink lines with watercolor. The front and back endpapers contain a nicely labeled diagram of a horseshoe crab. Marks tells the story of the horseshoe crabs using the spectrum of nature colors. From shorebirds to scientists, Marks realistically portrays the story’s characters and coastal setting.

Librarians will welcome this informational picture book title into their science collections. With the themes of coastal ecology, animal migration, life cycles, and scientists-in-the-field, the book provides numerous opportunities for science standards connections.

For lots of photos of horseshoe crabs, do a Google Images search atimages.google.com.

To learn more about the author, go to http://lisakschnell.com/.
To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.marksonpaper.co.uk/.

Published by Charlesbridge April 14, 2015.