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The Sea Hides a Seahorse

Illustrated by Melanie Mikecz
Published by The Collective Book Studio
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
LIST PRICE $8.99

About The Book

In lyrical prose with beautifully rendered illustrations, this gorgeous picture book introduces young readers to the amazing world of seahorses.

"This saltwater standout will have librarians, parents, and mini marine biologists hooked." —School Library Journal, starred review

Hidden in the ocean of colorful fish, octopus, kelp, sea sponges, and other sea life is a most unique creature: the seahorse.

Featuring different species of seahorses and seadragons across the world, The Sea Hides a Seahorse is a subtle seek-and-find story that journeys underwater to provide a glimpse into the secrets of seahorses as they swim, hide, hunt, court, mate, and more. Included at the back is more information about seahorses and how to support their protection and conservation.

About The Author

Sara T. Behrman is a children’s book author, technical writer, and former librarian. She loves to travel and, like seahorses, has found her way to all five of the world’s oceans: Arctic, Southern, Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific. Sara now lives in Portland, Oregon, which is about 80 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

About The Illustrator

Melanie Mikecz specializes in a mixed-media style that blends digital and traditional media. Her vibrant color palettes and bold patterns can be found in her illustrations and abstract work. In addition to her picture books, Melanie has worked on projects ranging from greeting cards to puzzles to large-scale murals and wall art. She currently lives in San Francisco, California, near the beach with her husband and two daughters.

Product Details

  • Publisher: The Collective Book Studio (April 9, 2024)
  • Length: 40 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781685552398
  • Grades: K - 3
  • Ages: 4 - 8
  • Lexile ® AD720L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®
  • Fountas & Pinnell™ Q These books have been officially leveled by using the F&P Text Level Gradient™ Leveling System

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Raves and Reviews

"This saltwater standout will have librarians, parents, and mini marine biologists hooked."

– School Library Journal, starred review

"A simple, sonorous introduction."

– Kirkus Reviews

"Author Sara T. Behrman and her seahorses weave a stunning seascape of learning, language, and fun. Because it’s engaging on so many levels, kids will keep diving back in again and again."

– Audrey Barbakoff, EdD, MLIS CEO Co/Lab Capacity LLC, author of The Schlemiel Kids Save the Moon

"Young readers will delight in seeking out the seahorses camouflaged in the vibrant illustrations. An informative, engaging, lyrical look at life under the sea, with an ending that highlights the comfort of family."

– Elisa Boxer, Emmy-winning journalist and Sydney Taylor Honor-winning author

"The Sea Hides a Seahorse is a delightful book that explores the amazing life of this small creature and other marine animals. The book uses lively and captivating language to explain how the seahorse blends in, mates, eats, and more. The illustrations are vivid and realistic, showing the beauty and variety of the ocean environment. The book also has a glossary of seahorse-related words as well as suggestions on how to protect them. This is a great book for any young reader and will inspire them to learn more about the wonderful world under the sea."

– Chari Smith, children’s book author of The Piano

"The charming story, vibrant illustrations, and informative backmatter make it a delightful read. This book is sure to spark a child’s curiosity and foster a love of marine life."

– Rochelle Strauss, award-winning children’s author of Tree of Life, One Well, and The Global Ocean

"Enchanting undersea vistas of many varieties of seahorses, as well as crabs, flounders, turtles and other sea life, in vibrant colors make this informative picture book a real winner. […] This lovely little book, with seahorses to find in each spread, is highly recommended for ages 3 and up."

– Jackie Davis, Collection Development Librarian, Timberland Regional Library, WA

"Readers will be enchanted by this glimpse into the secret world of seahorses. The engaging prose encourages participation, and the lovely illustrations provide a delightful hidden picture game."

– Claire Horowitz, author and Writing Workshop Leader

"Rolling prose and eye-catching artwork invite kids to take a deep dive into the habits and habitat of the seahorse—an interactive exploration supported by extensive notes and resources."

– Susan Blackaby, author of Where’s My Cow? 

"Great for both 1-on-1 reading and for classroom use, this fun, informative seek-and-find book will have kids begging to read it again and again!"

– Natasha Forrester Campbell, Early Childhood Services Librarian, MLS

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