FIRST DIVE TO SHARK DIVE

Confusing title aside, naturalist/photographer Lourie’s record of a visit to Andros Island in the Caribbean will engage armchair travelers and prospective scuba divers alike. He describes in detail the several days of training that his 12-year-old daughter Suzanna undertakes to receive her scuba certification. As he does, he also recounts meetings with several local residents, dives to a nearby reef, a visit to an area said to be frequented by the pirate Henry Morgan and finally, using passages from Suzanna’s own journal, a (planned) dive among sharks. Along with glimpses of colorful tropical fish, the sharp (if too often small) photos provide views of Suzanna on land, in her diving gear and among shadowy sharks. Highlighted by repeated references to an elusive local supernatural creature known as the Chickcharnie, this account will, in addition to its general appeal, make first rate booktalk material. (Nonfiction. 9-11)