Dolphins on the Sand written and illustrated by Jim Arnosky

This book was adorable. I found the story to be informative as well as heart wrenching. Arnosky really makes the reader care about the dolphins and their treacherous journey. He also uses suspense when the dolphins get stranded on sand.

The illustrations add to the story. They help explain some of the more challenging vocabulary as well as add to the story line. The illustrations are also just beautiful using warm and cool colors at times. The beautiful illustrations add to the imaginations and the tranquility of nature.

Arnosky also utilized suspense and adventure. The story did a great a job of showing readers not telling them. It also brings up several discussions of how whales and dolphins get beached and what people do to help. One of the best aspects of this story is that it is true for the most part. Although at times written from the dolphins perspective it is an account of a real event that the author witnessed.

I would have this book as a free read. I might also use this book as a read aloud.

This book can also be used as a text. I recommend this book to teachers.

Published: 2008