7 Books About the Ocean for Kids and the Classroom
Looking to bring the wonder of the ocean into your classroom? Whether you're diving into a ocean unit or simply feeding your students’ curiosity, great ocean books can make a big “splash”! Here are seven classroom-friendly books that will have your students hooked on ocean life.
1.Deep in the Ocean by Lucie Brunellière This book has the most beautiful illustrations that really capture the wonder of the ocean. I actually used it as inspiration for the mural I did in my kid’s bathroom!
2. Shark Lady by Jess Keating I practically have this book memorized because my daughter asks for it so often! I even recorded it on a Yoto card for her so she can hear it anytime she wants. It tells the true story of Eugenie Clark, who overcame sexism and bias against sharks to make important discoveries.
3. Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne Bring biography to life with this beautifully illustrated picture book about Jacques Cousteau. It's poetic, inspiring, and great for introducing students to the idea of exploration and environmental stewardship. It also pairs well with Shark Lady!
4. The Big Book of the Blue by Yuval Zommer This oversized, nonfiction book is sure to be a classroom favorite. Each spread features a different ocean creature, with engaging questions, quirky facts, and stunning illustrations. I love this illustrator!
5. Over and Under the Waves by Kate Messner The whole “Over and Under” series is beautiful and informative, and this one is no exception!
6. Ocean! Waves for All by Stacy McAnulty From the author of the Our Universe series, this book gives the ocean a voice—literally! Told from the ocean’s point of view, it’s clever, scientifically accurate, and lots of fun. Think Magic School Bus energy with modern flair.
7. Coral Reefs by Jason Chin This book is a fun mix of fantasy and fact. A student is transported into the undersea world after checking out a library book. It’s informative without being dry.
These ocean books are sure to be hits in your classroom library or at home, whether you’re working on an ocean unit or just want to expand your collection.
Match your learning with an ocean bulletin board!
If you’re closing out your year with a focus on oceans, grab this bulletin board kit to match!
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