Written by Susannah Buhrman-Deever, Illustrated by Matthew Trueman
This book is interesting on many levels. First, this book explains the food-chain cycle and oceanic ecosystem from the perspective of the otter. Secondly, it is a history lesson of what happened to the Pacific waters when the sea otters were hunted to near extinction and the environmental impact of that. Third, this book can be read on two different levels. There is a flowing narrative of life under the ocean, to which one can add sub-narrative facts to allow for deeper learning. Last, and most enhancing, are the captivating watercolors that so perfectly depict life in the ocean. With these water-color renderings, it is hard not to have a tender heart for the otters.
Reviewed by Kristine Kramer, Librarian, Lincoln Elementary
Review shared in January 2021
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-6
If You Take Away the Otter
Written by Susannah Buhrman-Deever, Illustrated by Matthew Trueman
Candlewick Press
32 pages
Release Date: May 26, 2020
ISBN: 9780763689346
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
