• Age: 7 to 10
• Grade: 2 to 5
• Reading age: 7 to 10

Coral reefs occupy less than 1% of the ocean floor, but they support 25% of all marine species with food and shelter. In this lavishly illustrated book for ages 7 to 10, marine ecologist and underwater explorer Erin Spencer provides fascinating, scientific information in a highly accessible format, including details about the types of coral, their anatomy and life cycle, where they live, how reefs develop, and the incredible diversity of marine animals that live among them, including aquarium favorites like clownfish, royal blue tangs, and sea turtles. Kids learn about the interdependent relationships of people and reefs and how human behavior puts reefs in danger, promising conservation work that scientists are undertaking, and solution-oriented ways kids and families can help in the effort.

Erin Spencer is a marine ecologist and National Geographic Explorer whose articles, photos, and videos of marine life have been featured in National Geographic, PBS, CBS Sunday Morning, and in publications of Ocean Conservancy. She is an avid public speaker and has presented to National Geographic, the World Bank, MCON, and TEDx, as well as many school groups. Originally from Maryland, she now lives in South Florida where she studies great hammerhead sharks and their prey for her PhD. 

Erin Spencer's profile page

Alexandria Neonakis grew up in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her huge family. She now lives in California with her husband and their two cats. In addition to illustrating children’s books, she works as a character- concept artist for video games. Her recent children’s books include Sweetest Kulu by Celina Kalluk and This Is MY Room by Jennifer Richard Jacobson. She loves hiking in the gorgeous Southern California wilderness, gardening, playing games, and reading good books. Learn more about her online at www.alexneonakis.com.

Alexandria Neonakis' profile page

"The World of Coral Reefs is the perfect introduction to the "rainforests of the sea" and their wonderful creatures. This is the book I wish I had when I was a kid becoming interested in marine life." - Enric Sala, Explorer in Residence, National Geographic Society and Executive Director and Founder of Pristine Seas

“An exciting guide for the next generation of ocean explorers, balancing the awe and wonder of the coral reef ecosystem with easy-to-understand science and facts that explore their importance and the immense threats they’re currently facing.” - Joe Grabowski, Director and Founder of Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants and National Geographic Explorer