This informational book gives an overview of the life within the depths of the ocean. The organisms featured in this book come from ocean environments across the globe. As well as providing information about these creatures, the book also categorizes them by the environment in which they live. Photographs, diagrams, and knowledge from scientists are featured heavily in this book, providing students with a factual experience with marine life. ( )

It is a very fascinating book about unreal looking creatures that can be found on or near the bottom of the ocean. Wonderful colorful pictures capturing those creatures are filling the book. I recommend this book to elementary school children that enjoy learning about new strange animals.

This is, technically speaking, a children's book. But it reminds me why I ended up studying biology, until the relentless focus on biochemistry, microbiology and physiology sapped the joy out the subject. It gently and lightly sketches a trail through the Census of Marine Life, highlighting a cross-section of the beautiful and wonderful creatures the project revealed. Johnson treads a skillful path of tone: explaining the project bit by bit without getting dry; putting the reader in the scientists' shoes without getting twee; and saying just enough to make each page revealing without turning it into a wall of text or distracting from the fascinating images. I am delighted with this one, and the nostalgic love of natural history that it stirred. ( )