Book Review: Shark The Illustrated Biography
Shark: The Illustrated Biography by Daniel Abel and Sophie A. Maycock
This book is nothing like any of the other, many, shark books I have adorning my shelves. This is evident right from turning the first page and reading the chapter titles, which include Roots, Sharks in the Womb, The Wonder Years… Delve further and you will see that this book is adorned with gorgeous watercolour illustrations. It is written as a biography of the whole group of over 500 species. By passionate devotees!
The book really stands out from the crowd. Whilst the reader will learn all about the life cycle, evolution, habitats and threats of these charismatic creatures, they do so in a way that really engages the reader. It tells the story of sharks with more than a dash of literary flair.
One of my favourite chapters covered sharks in human culture. How many cultures celebrate and venerate sharks. Although I was less enthused with the myth busting section of the book, which only seemed to serve to remind the reader of the usual negative media spin. I loved that this book shone a light on some of the more unusual species that rarely get the attention they deserve. I will enjoy picking this book up over and over again. Using it as a reference as well as something to peruse at leisure.
Any shark enthusiast will enjoy this book. Its 224 pages is packed with information and there are 100 colour illustrations to enjoy. This biography of sharks takes you from the prehistoric sharks all the way up to the present day species. And it is a joy to read.
What the publisher says:
No two species of shark have the same life history, yet these magnificent creatures share many things in common. This one-of-a-kind narrative biography brings together a wide array of species from habitats around the globe, examining the biology, ecology, and behavior of sharks as well as their cultural role in human history. Written by two experienced shark educators, scientists, and conservationists, Shark: The Illustrated Biography blends engaging profiles of selected species with captivating illustrations to offer an unparalleled exploration of the life and times of the shark.
- Features a beautiful and informative array of watercolors
- Tells the biographical story of the shark using the life histories of representative species, from birth and early family life to adolescence and the adult years
- Discusses sharks of all kinds, such as Shortfin Makos, Sandbar Sharks, Spiny Dogfish, Great Whites, Tiger Sharks, Basking Sharks, Angel Sharks, and Great Hammerheads
- Covers evolutionary history, distinguishing features, habitats, reproduction, and migration
- Examines the role of sharks in art, music, literature, spirituality, and mythology
- An essential, must-have reference for shark lovers everywhere
About the Authors:
Daniel C. Abel is professor of marine science at Coastal Carolina University, where his research focuses on shark ecology and physiology. His many books include Sharkpedia and (with R. Dean Grubbs) The Lives of Sharks (both Princeton). Sophie A. Maycock is an independent researcher and science communication writer. Specializing in shark behavior and conservation, she is the UK representative of the Sharks Educational Institute and is the founder of the website SharkSpeak.
Book Details
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Hardcover
Price: £25.00
ISBN: 9780691261676
Published: 25th March, 2025
