Review of Orcas Forever

[Seetha E]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Orcas Forever" by Marie-Paule Mahoney.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Orcas Forever is a beautiful documentary about the lives of orcas by Marie-Paule Mahony. It is a factual enumeration of the general life of the orcas, which has been negatively affected due to human intervention. The author has beautifully documented the closely watched happenings in the orca family groups called pods.

Using the descriptions of the struggles for survival of three such pods, the author sensitises readers about how humans have slowly but definitely encroached into their territory. These human activities have made their basic survival very difficult, resulting in their numbers falling by about 70%.

The fish, a Chinook salmon, is their favourite food. She has documented how they move from one location to another in search of this fish and how they must keep swimming to keep their bodies warm. The super-reunion celebration and details about echolocation and whistles to call each other were some interesting details. There is a sweet and detailed description of the greeting ceremony. The two oldest matriarchs, Sequim and Lea, hunt and provide food to the younger orcas and ensure their safety. There is a touching incident that is described well enough for kids. While on their journey in search of food, a mother gives birth and is responsible for caring for the newborn for the following two years. She has described how the matriarchs are always around, like elders in a family. There are many more facts and emotions packed in this little book.

The book is great and very informative for young kids. The good part is that it gives them enough factual information in just a few words. The bibliography can be used to explore more about the orcas.

I cannot point out any negatives with this one, as the storyline is perfectly illustrated and will keep younger kids engaged. It has enough factual information to encourage older kids to look up the internet for more, yet it is good and informative enough for adults as well.

I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars as the author has subtly touched on the serious concern about human intervention adversely affecting the orca numbers through this little peek into their lives. All the images make the entire narrative come alive, thanks to the superb work of Ginger Triplett. The editing is flawless, and there are no spelling or grammatical errors either.

Although Orcas Forever is mainly written for young children, I would recommend it to all age groups.

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Orcas Forever
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Thangam 1212]

An informative book about Orcas. This book seems like a nice one for kids , based on the cover. I liked to learn that it is engaging enough for older kids and adults alike. The author and the team has taken so much effort in researching the subject and putting together this book. There are 40 pages. I would like to read it up and interested to see the illustrations too. Thank you for the review Seetha!

[VPNair]

Nice book for kids with pictures. Will serve as tickler for curious young adults to research more about the orcas. Through review, thanks

[Ram Uday Mahajan]

I don't generally like kids' books. But reading your review, It seem worth giving a chance.

[Sarah Zain]

I like the kind of books that explain what humans do to other creatures as restricting the areas of animals or destroying their habitat, as happens with the orca, through poaching or other methods. This book provide awareness. Thank you for the recommendation.

[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Orcas Forever" by Marie-Paule Mahoney.]

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5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Orcas Forever is a beautiful documentary about the lives of orcas by Marie-Paule Mahony. It is a factual enumeration of the general life of the orcas, which has been negatively affected due to human intervention. The author has beautifully documented the closely watched happenings in the orca family groups called pods.

Using the descriptions of the struggles for survival of three such pods, the author sensitises readers about how humans have slowly but definitely encroached into their territory. These human activities have made their basic survival very difficult, resulting in their numbers falling by about 70%.

The fish, a Chinook salmon, is their favourite food. She has documented how they move from one location to another in search of this fish and how they must keep swimming to keep their bodies warm. The super-reunion celebration and details about echolocation and whistles to call each other were some interesting details. There is a sweet and detailed description of the greeting ceremony. The two oldest matriarchs, Sequim and Lea, hunt and provide food to the younger orcas and ensure their safety. There is a touching incident that is described well enough for kids. While on their journey in search of food, a mother gives birth and is responsible for caring for the newborn for the following two years. She has described how the matriarchs are always around, like elders in a family. There are many more facts and emotions packed in this little book.

The book is great and very informative for young kids. The good part is that it gives them enough factual information in just a few words. The bibliography can be used to explore more about the orcas.

I cannot point out any negatives with this one, as the storyline is perfectly illustrated and will keep younger kids engaged. It has enough factual information to encourage older kids to look up the internet for more, yet it is good and informative enough for adults as well.

I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars as the author has subtly touched on the serious concern about human intervention adversely affecting the orca numbers through this little peek into their lives. All the images make the entire narrative come alive, thanks to the superb work of Ginger Triplett. The editing is flawless, and there are no spelling or grammatical errors either.

Although Orcas Forever is mainly written for young children, I would recommend it to all age groups.

******
Orcas Forever
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Orcas are even more kingly than the great white sharks, but there's always a bigger fish out there. The book does a good job of raising awareness about orca conservation and showing their value in the ecosystem.

[Gerry Steen]

It is good for children to learn at a young age about the implications of human intervention with nature. This in turn will encourage better stewardship of the balance of nature when these children become adults with decision-making powers. Kudos to the author and artist for creating this valuable children's resource.

[Anu Anand]

The way this book teaches kids about orca life while showing their family bonds and struggles makes it both emotional and educational. I loved the part about whistles and matriarchs. It's a great way to raise awareness from a young age. Thank you for the thoughtful review. @Seetha E

[Priya Murugesan]

I always look forward to reading children's books. My daughters are very interested in reading about animals and I am sure they will adore this book. As an animal lover, I believe I too will enjoy reading it. Thanks for your review!