The Chesapeake Bay is an amazing body of water—the largest estuary in North America. The first of its kind, this book stimulates elementary- and middle-school children’s interest in the Bay by exposing them to the fascinating creatures and plants found in and around the Bay’s 2,500 square miles. Concepts such as watershed, airshed, and food web are explained in concise, understandable terms. This is an effective means for children to discover the interesting traits of some of the plants, animals, birds, and fish they are likely to find in and around the Bay. A new "Citizen Science" guide to water quality empowers children and adults to monitor the health of local streams and creeks.
David Owen Bell is a ship captain, streamkeeper, and master watershed steward with a background in oceanographic research, maritime training, and environmental education.
Marcy Dunn Ramsey is a graduate of Emmanuel College, where she received a BA degree. She lives with her family on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Ramsey has been painting and drawing all her life, and since beginning her illustration career in 1988, has produced more than 50 books. Ramsey’s long experience with children has helped her keep in tune with their likes and dislikes. Her greatest efforts are directed at communicating a sense of humor, excitement, and spontaneity in her work that encourages children to continue their discovery of the magic of reading.
A second edition updates this 25-year-old classic, introducing a new generation of kids to the Bay. Aimed at elementary and middle school students, Bell packs a lot of knowledge into a slim (63-page) volume, beginning with the formation of the Bay and guiding readers to the life under and around the water, while providing a road map for young citizen scientists eager to get involved. Its a great gift for a kid who wants to explore the Bay (or one youre trying to nudge in that direction). -- Chesapeake Bay Magazine
In summary, this is an excellent book for elementary and lower middle school teachers to use in their classrooms. There are fun facts that teachers can use, and the best parts are how this book simplifies scientific concepts in student friendly language. If you get a chance add this book to your wish list, you wont be disappointed. -- VATS The Science Educator
For any child who is curious about places they haven't been or even for kids in the Chesapeake Bay area either in New York or Virginia, this book will tell the rich history of the Bay. Young readers will definitely want to go there after reading this book; I know I do. There are fun facts all throughout and many educational activity pages included. (Ages 8-12) -- Midwest Book Review
2022 Skipping Stones Book Honor Award Winner in Nature and Ecology Books -- Skipping Stones
