Early Book Review: Whales & Dolphins by Tom Jackson

Whales & Dolphins by Tom Jackson is a nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on May 14 2024. Whales and dolphins alike are renowned for their intelligent nature and fascinating social rituals. Like us humans, they use vocalizations to communicate. They both have distinctive, streamlined body shapes and propel themselves through water using powerful tails and flippers. These magnificent mammals are frequently described as ‘sentinels’ of ocean health, providing key insight into marine dynamics and ecosystem quality. Whales are the largest marine mammals belonging to the Cetacea order (whales, dolphins and porpoises). Their incredible size continues to amaze us, the blue whale reaching an astounding 100ft (30.48 meters) and weighing as much as 200 tons. Dolphins, found in both oceans and freshwater, are actually classed as small- toothed whales. They are esteemed around the world for their sleek physical appearance and intriguing sounds used to communicate with each other. Did you know that porpoises are often shy creatures and therefore most of us will very rarely encounter them in the wild? Among their species is the vaquita, tragically the most endangered species of any whale, dolphin or porpoise.

Whales & Dolphins is a visually attention grabbing book. I found the chosen photographs to be wonderful, and the book is worth a look just or the images alone. I thought the text was well done as well, and I learned quite a bit about the featured animals. There were full captions explaining the different species, as well as their behavior and feeding habits. I was fascinated by whales when I was young, and was thrilled to revisit the subject matter. Also, I can finally say that I understand the differences between porpoises and dolphins and just how some outliers like narwhales and belugas fit in the family tree.