Early Book Review: Constellation of the Deep by Benjamin Flouw

Constellation of the Deep is a picturebook written and illustrated by Benjamin Flouw that is currently scheduled for release on June 8 2021. Fox loves nature, and enjoys discovering strange and fascinating plants. He especially loves the seaside, and often walks the salty coastal trails with his cousin Wolf. One day, Seagull tells the two about an especially interesting underwater plant called the constellation of the deep. According to Seagull, it grows on the bottom of the ocean, but no one knows exactly where, and it glows in the dark. Before long, Fox has donned his diving equipment, including a wet suit, a snorkel, a diving mask, fins and more, and sets off on an underwater quest to find this incredible plant. Along the way, Fox observes many different kinds of ocean life, like crabs, starfish, algae and an amazing array of corals. He also comes across some underwater friends who try to help guide him to the elusive plant. But Fox despairs when he loses his camera -- even if he finds the constellation of the deep, how will he capture this amazing discovery?

Constellation of the Deep is a fun story of adventure and exploration that also delivers some interesting information about shoreline and marine life. I liked that the importance of the proper gear and safety measures were included in the story, as were the wonders and dangers of such a journey. I thought the depiction ad naming of a variety of plant and animal life was very well done in the context of the story, and think that some interested readers will go back after the first read through to get a better look at some of them. I think adults that have the chance to read this with the young people in their lives will enjoy it just as much as the younger readers.

Constellation of the Deep is a beautifully illustrated picturebook that just might inspire young readers to have a greater understanding and interest in nature, particularly ocean life.