Mister Seahorse (2004)

This cutesy story makes for a great introduction to families and reproduction, and how fathers in the animal kingdom sometimes have more involved roles than we give them credit for. While not one of my favorite Eric Carle books, it is still an award winning book with purpose in a classroom. However, for me, this book would only be one used for the teaching of specific concepts rather than for pure wonder. ( )

With a simple, informative text, combined with Eric Carle's magical, colourful illustrations (I love all of them, but I think my favourite is the depiction of the lion fish hiding among the coral reefs), this absolute gem of a picture book demonstrates in a fun, but educational manner that especially in the ocean, it is often the male of the species which hatches and watches over the eggs, the new generation. Recommended for young children interested in science, sea creatures, ecology, [b:Mister Seahorse|631931|Mister Seahorse|Eric Carle|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1176505999s/631931.jpg|861584] is simple and fun enough to be understood and appreciated by most toddlers, but involved, detailed and busy enough to be enjoyed by slightly older children as well (up to and including ages five or six, perhaps even seven). Perfect for a read aloud at home or the library, [b:Mister Seahorse|631931|Mister Seahorse|Eric Carle|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1176505999s/631931.jpg|861584] would also work well in a preschool or kindergarten classroom, perhaps as part of a unit on science, ecology, or even the family (stressing the fact that in the ocean, it is often "Mister Seahorse" and other males which take care of, which hatch and protect the offspring). ( )

Eric Carle is famous for his beautiful illustrations and meaningful childrens books. Mister Seahorse is an example of why. The story follows a daddy seahorse while he carries "Mrs. Seahorse's eggs". He runs into some other male fish that take care of their unborn young and the illustrations are unique and add a lot to the story. Great read! ( )

This book is a fun way for kids to learn about different sea animals. The children can be involved in the reading by guessing what animal he will meet next, and it also includes a variety of colorful pictures.

I think that this is very fun book. I loved how Eric Carle incorporated the clear pages with drawings in them to show how some fish hide themselves. I think that this is a great book to use when teaching children about the different roles fish parents take when reproducing.