Behrman, Sara T. Sea Hides a Seahorse, The. Melanie Mikecz, Illus. Collective, 04/2024. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.95. 978-1-68555-644-0. GRADES Preschool–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Digitized, hand-painted paper cutouts in vibrant shades recreate an intricately patterned underwater world, inhabited by a dazzling variety of seahorses. Lyrical, alliterative text on the right-hand page sets the stage, ending with the repeating refrain: “the sea hides a seahorse.” Young readers will delight in the seek and find. Page turns reveal close-ups and add a specific, active description: “changing, voyaging, hunting, courting.” Back matter explains each verb, expanding on the skills and habits of seahorses. How to help, and additional resources are appended. Frustratingly, readers aren’t told what species the pictured seahorses are, or where they can be found.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired