How to Survive as a Shark

Students in primary grades seem to all adore sharks. But what would they do if they were a shark? How would they survive? What a fun question to ask them before reading this book. Make a chart of all their responses to the focus question: “What are all the ways we can think of for how a shark survives?” The read the book to confirm their responses and to further develop the chart.

Young readers and listeners delight in the whimsical style the author uses to teach about shark survival. Follow a bandana-bedecked Australian shark through the sea as he communicates through the use of speech bubbles.  In addition to the speech bubbles there are: fun facts written on driftwood planks, a quiz or two, some vocabulary sneaking around in the seaweed, diagrams in a bottle, the food pyramid, FAQs with the shark answering, and the author’s disclaimer that teaches so much more but acknowledges that scientists are always learning.

This book is full of facts, rich in vocabulary but so accessible. Students will be intrigued as you read with an Aussie accent and will want to explore the book on their own. This is a perfect book for rereading a page multiple times because there is so much information yet written with humor. This is one terrifically accessible nonfiction book that will be a popular member of your reading community. You may even decide to purchase more than one copy so book buddies can explore together.

About the Author

Kristen Foote has a degree in biology, is fascinated by science, and believes that learning about science can be fun (and funny!) She proves it with this book and its companion, How to Survive as a Firefly. Her website, kristenfooteauthor.com, has book trailers for the two titles she has written. It would appear on the website that there are printables, crafts, and activities but neither link seems to be available. I suppose this means you and your students will want to create your own ideas—like building some shark habitat dioramas.

Pathways Themes: Living Things

Reviewed by Krystal Bishop, EdD

Professor of Education

Southern Adventist University

‍