The Deep!: Wild Life at the Ocean's Darkest Depths

by Lindsey Leigh

Plunge beneath the waves to find an alien world of bizarre creatures who explain for themselves how they’ve adapted to life in the deep dark sea.

Did you know that there are animals that are completely transparent? That some tube worms live for 1,000 years? That the Pigbutt Worm is also known as the “Flying Buttocks”? Or that there is a type of sea cucumber that is nicknamed “the headless chicken monster?” These are just some of the scientific facts, presented comics-style, that kids will pore over again and again.
The Deep! is a rollicking survey of animals that live in the deepest part of the ocean created in an exciting graphic nonfiction format. The first-person commentary by the animals themselves cover a wealth of facts from the surface of the ocean to the darkest trenches. And the beautiful full-color illustrations bring them to life.
From animal adaptations like bioluminescence and giant flashlight eyes to the habits and habitats of the Pram Bug and Dumbo Octopus, The Deep! will keep readers fully engaged with life at the bottom of the sea.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, Childrens, Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Animals, Picture Books

96 pages, Hardcover

Published June 27, 2023

Reviews

[Hannah Showalter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cool way for kids to learn about the ocean and its layers. Truly one of my fears in this life but these illustrations made some of these creatures cute to me, lol.

[Vanity La’Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 Stars

This was so fun! I read a section with my daughter every night and we both learned (or confirmed) what we already know… the ocean is scary lol. No, but it was also super informative. Some of the creatures were really cute, and others? Let’s just say a little facially challenged.

Things I loved:

-Sharing it as a nightly read with my daughter — it made the experience even better.

-The mix of “scary” and “funny-looking” creatures kept us entertained and laughing.

-It was informative without being overwhelming, perfect for kids and adults.


*As I always say, learning about these kinds of sciences, in this format is my favorite—especially as a health science student.*

Final thoughts:
We had a blast with this one. A perfect mix of fun & learning. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Emily Rundle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for the egalley of The Deep!: Wild Life at the Ocean's Darkest Depths.

This was a 5/5 for me for children's nonfiction and I can't wait to get it for my library shelves! This book had the perfect balance of well researched ocean animal facts, jokes and humor, and gorgeous illustrations to make for a great children's nonfiction book.

I learned some interesting facts and got a great refresher on some information I learned about the ocean when I was getting my bachelors in biology. Did you know that vampire squid aren't squids at all? I sure didn't! The information in this book is perfect for a child (or adult) who can't get enough information about the ocean, or who wants to be a marine biologist someday.

The gorgeous illustrations are stylized and colorful, but maintain accuracy to the animals and oceanic zones they are describing. The visuals are stunning and despite being full page, they do not distract from the information being provided.

Overall, I can't say enough about how beautiful, funny, and informative this book was and it's a winner in the absolute sea (haha) of ocean nonfiction for kids.

[Sarah Soldano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliantly researched, written, and illustrated! I learned a lot and giggled a ton. The information was very clear and accessible and the fun deep-sea characters were endearing and memorable. Definitely worth a read!

[Claire Wrobel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute, and the kids were very engaged with the different animals. Each week I showed them what the animals looked like in real life in photos and videos to make a stronger connection to the real world. We also practiced note-taking. Some of the jokes in the book definitely went over their heads because they're ESL students but I enjoyed them. I'll definitely be buying her other books for the library!

[Red · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a WONDERFUL book for introducing kids to the environment and life at the bottom of the ocean. The illustrations are completed in an eye catching array of colors, and the crustaceans, worms, in/vertebrates, etc that are highlighted were so entertaining! My 9 y/o had a bunch of ridiculous giggles for the Pig Butt Worm 🤣

I appreciated the descriptions of the different zones and geographic features of the oceans depths! We read this at bedtime and over winter break in bite sized chunks.

[Ms. B]

I skimmed this one to see what the layout was. It's a cross between a graphic novel and an informational text nonfiction book with both comics and fact boxes on the pages. Learn all about the creatures of the deep, ones you have heard of and one you haven't heard of.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book! I learned so much about creatures of the deep!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

My kids loooooved this book. It isn't from a Christian young Earth perspective, so we had to clarify a few things.

[BethFishReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and lighthearted look at the great diversity of sea creatures that live in the deep oceans. Geared to middle grade readers but good for everyone.

The book is roughly divided by the ocean's zones, starting at the surface and continuing down into the deepest trenches. Each zone is described in scientific terms (including pronunciation guides), and then the text turns to individual species or species groups.

The colorful drawings pull you in, depicting the variety of amazing life forms found in the sea. Speech bubbles add some humor and include nods to pop culture for older readers. You'll learn about the creatures' life cycles, defenses, locomotion, diet, and more.

The text and illustrations are very engaging. The author has done a great job of presenting scientific information in a fun and entertaining way.

The end of the book includes resources for learning more as well as ideas and sources for learning how to get involved in conservation. There's also a helpful index.

Highly recommended for the whole family.

Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dive into the enchanting depths of the ocean with "The Deep!: Wild Life at the Ocean's Darkest Depths" by Lindsey Leigh, a captivating and educational graphic nonfiction book perfect for kids aged 8-12 years old. Plunging beneath the waves, readers are transported into an alien world teeming with bizarre creatures who reveal their astonishing adaptations to survive in the deep dark sea.

Within the pages of this book, young readers will encounter mind-boggling facts that will leave them in awe. Did you know that there are animals that are completely transparent? Or that some tube worms have a lifespan of a staggering 1,000 years? And how about the Pigbutt Worm, hilariously known as the "Flying Buttocks"? Prepare to be astounded as you discover these extraordinary creatures, including the sea cucumber nicknamed "the headless chicken monster." Presented in a dynamic comics-style format, these scientific facts will enthrall kids, prompting them to revisit the book again and again.

"The Deep!" takes readers on a thrilling survey of the ocean's darkest depths, providing a first-person commentary by the animals themselves. From the ocean's surface to the deepest trenches, a wealth of information unfolds, accompanied by beautiful full-color illustrations that breathe life into each page. Lindsey Leigh skillfully weaves together the intricacies of animal adaptations, such as bioluminescence and giant flashlight eyes, with captivating descriptions of the Pram Bug and Dumbo Octopus, ensuring that readers remain fully engaged throughout their exploration of life at the bottom of the sea.

"The Deep!" offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for young readers. Lindsey Leigh's ability to blend scientific knowledge with an exciting narrative style is commendable, making complex concepts accessible and enjoyable for kids. This book serves as an invaluable resource for children curious about the wonders that lie beneath the ocean's surface, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the remarkable creatures that call it home.

"The Deep!: Wild Life at the Ocean's Darkest Depths" is an absolute must-read for young explorers and aspiring marine biologists alike. Lindsey Leigh's extraordinary storytelling combined with the visually stunning artwork makes this book a treasure trove of knowledge and adventure. So, grab your diving gear and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the mysteries of the deep sea.

[Lisa Houston · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Book Review: *The Deep!* by Lindsey Leigh**

*The Deep!* is a fascinating and visually captivating exploration of the mysterious creatures that dwell in the deepest parts of the ocean. Presented in a fun and engaging graphic nonfiction format, this book is packed with incredible facts that will leave readers amazed.

Did you know some animals are completely transparent? Or that certain tube worms can live for 1,000 years? The book introduces readers to these mind-blowing facts and more, including the Pigbutt Worm (also known as the “Flying Buttocks”) and the “headless chicken monster,” a unique type of sea cucumber.

One of the standout features of *The Deep!* is its clever storytelling style. The animals themselves provide first-person commentary, sharing their fascinating traits and behaviors in a way that feels both educational and entertaining. The vibrant, full-color illustrations add even more charm, bringing these deep-sea creatures to life.

From bioluminescent animals that glow in the dark to the quirky habits of creatures like the Pram Bug and Dumbo Octopus, *The Deep!* offers a delightful mix of science and humor. Young readers — and even curious adults — will be drawn in by the book’s playful tone and wealth of surprising facts.

Whether you’re a budding marine biologist or just love discovering weird and wonderful animals, *The Deep!* is a must-read that makes learning about the ocean’s depths an unforgettable adventure.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Deep! - Wild Life at the Ocean’s Darkest Depths by Lindsey Leigh is a fascinating, colorful book about the deepest part of earth’s oceans. The table of contents lead to the different zones under the sea and to a” Want to know more?” section, plus there is an index of sea creatures. Every page is filled with facts and funny little bubbles of talking sea creatures that are set up in comic book style. Meet the pram bug, dumbo octopus, and ostracod, and many other new creatures of the deep.

Opinion:
The Deep! - Wild Life at the Ocean’s Darkest Depths by Lindsey Leigh is by far the best book I have seen as a science teacher on the deepest part of earth’s oceans. The book has so many facts that is a great source for teaching, and yet it is fun for students to read. Many pages are set up like a comic book with "talking" creatures. The colors are bright and the sea creatures are described in detail, making the book engaging and clever, keeping kids and adults interested. The table of contents is useful, and a reference section helps one look for information quickly. Familiar creatures such as the Angler Fish are detailed, but the book includes lots of less familiar species like the pram bug, dumbo octopus, and ostracod. This book provides fascinating facts with a fun twist.

[Roben · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book! It explains the different layers of the ocean and helps readers discover the different types of marine animals that inhabit each layer - all the way down to the bottom of the ocean!
I learned about a lot of sea creatures that are truly remarkable - like the Oarfish and the Colossal Squid. And also - Marine Snow! And Whale Fall. The bottom of the ocean is definitely a fascinating place that supports some amazing animals. I also found it interesting that many of the animals in the book have not been observed eating - so there is still a lot of speculation about how they live. I think being a marine biologist would be fascinating. Hopefully this book will encourage kids to explore that as a career so we can learn even more about these fascinating creatures! And new ones that have yet to be discovered.

[Margie Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

This non-fiction beautifully illustrated picture book has so much information in it! What a wonderful resource to learn about the ocean and its creatures. From detailed diagrams to pronunciations of new vocabulary, the reader is lured into learning so much with dashes of humor and whimsy thrown in, too! Yes, there are mentions of fart humor deep beneath the sea. I especially loved the brief discussion of the “plural of octopus” and the several terms that are all correct. The fish and sea life are compared frequently with familiar land animals so the reader can connect their background knowledge to these unfamiliar specimens. For those who may use this book for elementary students to do research, it includes an index, websites and more.

🍊This book is on the new Orange Blossom Nonfiction list of recommended picture books for elementary libraries selected by the Florida Association for Media in Education (FAME).

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Readers will learn a little about a lot of deep sea creatures, including siphonophores, chimaera fish, different varieties of angler fish, enypniastes, and many more. Pronunciation guides are given for many of the creature names. The author also gives brief explanations of each of the oceanic zones. The book is colorfully illustrated with cartoon likenesses of the creatures, but I would have preferred at least including photos of the creatures alongside the cartoon depiction. A comparison of photos of the creatures on the internet with the cartoon depictions shows that the author/illustrator was very adept at capturing each creature's likeness. The backmatter includes four websites to peruse, suggestions for helping the ocean, and an index.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Deep!: Wild Life at the Ocean’s Darkest Depths is an engaging and informative nonfiction book about the creatures that inhabit the depths of the ocean. The book introduces readers to the life forms found in the different layers of the ocean. Starting at the ocean’s surface, each layer is introduced then readers learn about the habits and adaptations of the variety of ocean life forms found within the layer. The book includes vibrant illustrations and fun facts along with jokes and humor that will hit just the right notes with elementary school readers.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book for review

[Martha Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extraordinarily fun, scientific introduction for kids to the various ocean depths below the Epigelagic Zone (the one we know with dolphins and sea turtles and phytoplankton) and what weird and bizarre creatures they support. Meet the Larvacean with its magnificent snot palace, the barrel eye fish with its crazy see-through head, the blob sculpin and more, much more! Guaranteed to reel in the most recalcitrant of readers. A book that looks like a comic book and reads like one too! Lindsey Leigh is a genius. Enjoy this book! Gift it to the nearest child.

[Rick Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an illustrated survey of the creatures of the deep ocean, full of some amazing biology mixed with a lot of goofy humor. The author does a great job of highlighting some of the most interesting adaptations to life in the ocean depths, organizing most of the book by the different zone of the deep sea. There are also some special topics such as chemosynthesis and whalefalls that get a bit of extra coverage.

Some really alien-looking creatures come off as quite charming, and the range of deep sea life that is included is impressive, given the size of the book.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very real sea life in each of the 5 ocean depth zones engage us with numerous facts about them and their fellow ocean dwellers. Two page layouts show one to three different animals have facts, mostly in little boxes or small paragraphs. The illustrations are key to maintaining interest. It seems each animal is more odd than the one before it. Cool facts and a few jokes.
If you want to know more, a few sources are listed. Includes long index of sea creatures.
Our 4-year-old loved this! The grosser, the better.

[Bexa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The more I learn about the deep ocean the more excited I get about it and the more I want to never go there. This was so much fun to read and held a lot of fun illustrations to help kids understand what creatures really look like. Such a delightful book. Broken into the different sections of the ocean Leigh spent a few pages discussing what each layer was and some of the amazing creatures found there. A great book for kids fascinated with the ocean and with unique animals.

[Teresa Grabs · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful and informative picture book on the ocean's depths and the many creatures that live there. The illustrations are on the cute side, and I wish they had included real pictures somewhere in the book to show what the creature really looked like. This book will make a fantastic addition to any classroom or home library.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this was a very interesting and fun book to read. I love learning about creatures in the deep oceans where I will probably never go, and that's what this was about! It focused more on animals than on plants. The graphic novel panel format made it very engaging but it also packed a lot of information into it.

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

If for no other reason you have to read this book because of the pigbutt worm (Chaetopterus pugaporcinus)! Never in my wildest dreams imagined that a creature like this existed! Could not stop laughing for at least 3 minutes! But besides the pigbutt worm you are going to meet lots of creatures so grotesque that they are funny!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

While graphic novels are not my favorite format for books, kids do love them, and they will love this book. It is full of fun facts and interesting deep sea tidbits. It is full of cartoon illustrations and speech bubbles of facts - it's all balanced with just the right amount of gross-ness sure to grab the attention K-5th grade readers.

[Maria George · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are aliens on earth. Our oceans hold stranger creatures than science fiction has been able to conjure.

The art style is gorgeous! This book is definitely geared towards children, but it's enjoyable as an adult as well. I love the amount of detail and research that went into this.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The tone of this book is great when the animals are joking around in sidebars, but there is plenty to learn through the chunks of denser text.

[Peoria Public Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spencer rated this book 4 out of 5 stars.

[PottWab Regional Library]

O

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

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