Sandler, Martin W. Shipwrecked!: Diving for Hidden Time Capsules on the Ocean Floor. Astra, 10/2023. 144pp. Nonfiction. Trade $24.99. 978-1-66260-204-7. GRADES 6–12. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
The topic of marine archaeology, where investigation of shipwrecks focuses on the history of the ship’s owner instead of just plundering lost treasure, is told using a compelling narrative nonfiction writing style. Beginning with the 1900 discovery of an ancient Greek ship, then looking at an African slave ship, and finally the wreckage of explorers in the Arctic, the chronological organization helps readers understand how this study of history developed. The elegant book design includes color photos, sidebars, drawings, and other material that facilitate the understanding of the topic, although there are no maps, which would have greatly assisted the reader. Helpful back matter includes source notes, index, bibliography, and brief sections on other notable shipwrecks. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—SJSU iSchool