DigeeBooks

When the sea otters disappear, why does their kelp forest habitat disappear, too?On the Pacific Coast of North America, sea otters play, dive, and hunt for sea urchins, crabs, abalone, and fish in the lush kelp forests beneath the waves. But there was a time when people hunted the otters almost to extinction. Without sea otters to eat them, an army of hungry sea urchins grew and destroyed entire kelp forests. Fish and other animals that depended on the kelp were lost, too. But when people protected the sea otters with new laws, their numbers began to recover, and so did the kelp forests. Susannah Buhrman-Deever offers a beautifully written account of a trophic cascade, which happens when the removal of a single element affects an entire habitat. Asides that dig deeper are woven throughout Matthew Trueman’s dynamic illustrations, starring a raft of charismatic sea otters. Back matter includes more information about sea otters and kelp forests, including their importance and current status, the effects of the international fur trade on indigenous peoples, and a list of books and websites for readers who wish to continue to explore.

Embark on a heartwarming journey with "If You Take Away the Otter" by Susannah Buhrman-Deever, a captivating children's book that unveils the delicate balance of nature and the interconnectedness of life. Immerse yourself in the tale of an otter whose disappearance triggers a chain reaction, affecting not only its own habitat but also the lives of other animals.

In this beautifully illustrated story, readers follow the otter's journey as it navigates the challenges of finding food, building a home, and raising its young. Through lyrical prose and vibrant illustrations, Buhrman-Deever paints a vivid picture of the otter's world, highlighting its playful nature, determination, and resilience.

As the story unfolds, readers discover the consequences of the otter's absence on the surrounding ecosystem. The once-thriving riverbank begins to deteriorate, affecting the fish population and the plants that rely on the otter's presence for survival. The ripple effect extends even further, impacting the lives of a heron, a fox, and a young girl named Lily.

Lily, a curious and compassionate child, sets out on a mission to understand why the otter has disappeared. Her journey takes her through forests and meadows, and she encounters various animals who share their perspectives on the otter's role in their lives. Through these interactions, Lily gains a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.

With each page, "If You Take Away the Otter" weaves a narrative that emphasizes the importance of preserving and protecting the environment. It teaches children valuable lessons about the delicate balance of nature and the consequences of human actions on the natural world.

Through its captivating storytelling and stunning illustrations, "If You Take Away the Otter" inspires young readers to become stewards of the Earth and advocates for the protection of wildlife and their habitats.