photo credit: aecimaupr.blogspot.com
By Sarah Sharkey
Having a passion for the oceans is a wonderful experience that leaves you with a desire to help the oceans.
How can you help the oceans? You ask. It is a fair question. The oceans are such a massive entity that it can be a daunting idea to try to brainstorm ideas to help make them a better environment for the abundance of creatures that live there. One adage that comes mind is “knowledge is power.” By reading up on the complexities and wonders of the oceans, you will be better prepared to help them. With that in mind, I present five books to you that are chock-full of information about the ocean that is both interesting and practical. Enjoy!
1. Essentials of Oceanography by Alan Trujillo and Harold Thurman
Although this book is a textbook used in Oceanography 101 course across the nation, I found it to be a wonderful source of knowledge. My professor used to assign us multiple chapters in one week but I honestly did not mind reading them because the subject matter is so interesting. The book discusses many techniques on oceanographic research and mentioned some ways to get involved.
Source: ValoreBooks.com
2. Introducing Oceanography by David Thomas and David Bowers
Authors Thomas and Bowers provide an overview of the science of the studies of the ocean. They start by going over the forces at work within the oceans and end by discussing the methodology of oceanographic research. With plenty of pictures, the book is engaging and great way to learn more about the ocean.
Source: Barnes&Noble
3. Citizens of the Sea: Wondrous Creatures From the Census of Marine Life
This book does not directly discuss oceanography, but rather the creatures that live in the ocean. This book is one of my favorites because it takes you through so many species of sea-dwellers. There is a perfect balance between scientific facts and breathtaking pictures that are sure to inspire you to protect the vast oceans.
Source: Barnes&Noble
4. Ocean: The Definitive Visual Guide by DK Publishing
If a dense textbook is a little intimidating, this image centric book is perfect for you! Through images and limited descriptions, this book is bound to explain new oceanic concepts to you. With a mix of information about new discoveries and general knowledge, the authors take you on a journey of love through the deep blue.
Source: Barnes&Noble
5. The World is Blue: How Our Fate and the Ocean’s are One by Sylvia Earle
This relatively short read is an interesting look at the connections our actions have on the fate of the ocean. Although the book is lacking in hard scientific data, I found it to be a book worth reading. It draws some parallels that forced me to open my eyes about certain truths. I would recommend reading this book once you have established some general knowledge about the oceans. Earle has also written, Blue Hope, which I found to be an extraordinary look into the beauty of the oceans.
Source: Amazon.com