This is some of the mom-related content, but of course, it is still marine related. One of the joys of motherhood has been sharing my love for the ocean with my twins. As a marine biologist and diver, my passion for marine life runs deep, and I never realized just how many children’s books are centered around the ocean until I started picking them out for my little ones. Of course, my background influences the books I choose, but my kids are still exposed to a variety of topics.

Here are some of my favorites so far:

The Very Silly Sea and Shore Collection – Jack Tickle

If there’s one thing my twins love, it’s interactive pop-up books. The Very Silly Sea and Shore Collection is filled with bright colors and playful ocean creatures that practically jump off the page. Love the large pop-outs, the vivid illustrations, and the fun, engaging experience it creates.

Secrets of the Seashore – Carron Brown and Alyssa Nassner

I found this book at a consignment store and picked it up just because it was about tide pools, and it has a unique interactive element. By holding a light behind the pages, hidden details of the seashore are revealed, making it a fun way to explore tide pools, hidden creatures, and beach ecosystems.

The Blue Whale – National Geographic Society

I randomly came across this book at one of those small libraries at a local park and immediately threw it in the stroller. It was written by National Geographic so, it’s packed with factual content. Love the illustrations on the inside of the cover with the different cetaceans. While I personally enjoy it for its accuracy, it’s not an interactive book, which means it might not hold a baby’s attention just yet. But for slightly older kids, it’s a great way to introduce marine species.

Discovering the Secret World: Coral Reef – Radka Piro and Martin Šojdr

I found this one at my local library. I’m not sure if it’s because I live near the beach that there are so many marine-themed books available or if this is common everywhere, but either way, I’m not complaining. The vibrant colors and layered pages make it a fantastic introduction to coral reef ecosystems. It’s a great way to show kids the complexity of reefs, making them more than just a concept but something they can appreciate through engaging illustrations.

The Rainbow Fish is not on here although I did come across it at the consignment store and bought it. While it’s a classic and beloved by many, I’ve always had mixed feelings about its message. I think the message was to originally encourage the positivity in sharing with others or there is happiness in helping others. However, I personally prefer books that encourage generosity in a different way.

Final Thoughts

I’m still exploring new marine-themed books and finding more gems along the way. As my twins grow, I look forward to introducing them to even more stories, both fun and factual, that inspire a love for the ocean. Stay tuned for Part 2.

Do you have any favorite marine-themed books for kids? Drop them in the comments. I’d love to check them out!