Book Recommendations
A new addition to MST, this page has suggestions for good ocean-themed reading. These books are from all genres: non-fiction, thriller/suspense, opinion and more. We’ve included short summaries of each book and at the bottom of the page you’ll find links to everything listed here. Do you have a favorite ocean-themed book? Let us know – we would be happy to add it to this page!
The End of the Line: How Overfishing Is Changing the World and What We Eat
by Charles Clover
(Non-fiction/Research/Opinion)
The acclaimed 2009 documentary of the same name was based on this enlightening exposition and critique of the modern fishing industry and its imminent consequences. Those compelled by the film to educate further on the subject will find the abundance of facts and pertinent commentary contained here essential. Highly recommended.
My Father, the Captain: My Life With Jacques Cousteau
by Jean-Michel Cousteau (with Daniel Paisner)
(Non-fiction/Memoir/Biography)
The life and work of Jacques Cousteau was indispensable to many areas of marine science, conservationism being just one facet of his legacy, and who better than his own son and fellow environmentalist, Jean-Michel Cousteau, to expand on his background and career? This intimate memoir will reveal important, previously unknown details about the seminal figure to those inspired by his work.
Death at SeaWorld: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity
by David Kirby
(Non-fiction/Opinion)
Sea World, a three-location marine mammal park in the US, has maintained an esteemed public image as one of the only tourist attractions in the country allowing visitors to observe captive orcas. In spite of this reputation, a multitude of ethical dilemmas regarding the animals’ captivity have risen, which Kirby observes in part by detailing the incident that thrust these dilemmas into the spotlight. Recommended for those who wish to learn more about the arguments against the keeping and training of orcas.
Rogue Justice (A Thriller)
by William Neal
(Fiction/Suspense)
This novel uses the real-life issues surrounding orca captivity as a backdrop to deliver a character-driven thriller which quickly takes its premise to the realm of science-fiction. Orca lovers will appreciate the author’s researched knowledge of his subject, although, for many, the book’s swift plot will likely be its biggest draw.
A Sea in Flames: The Deepwater Horizon Oil Blowout
by Carl Safina
(Non-fiction/Research/Opinion)
Conservationist Carl Safina is the author of six books that focus on both the science and the ethics of our relationship with nature. A Sea In Flames provides a vivid account of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Safina deconstructs the series of events that led to the disaster and reviews the consequences. Impassioned and insightful, this book is recommended for anyone wishing to learn more about the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Have young kids? If you’re looking for a younger perspective on the same topic, be sure to read our review of The Boat House Buddies Deal With the Big Spill. It’s a great 10-book children’s series about a group of kids all affected in some way by the Deepwater Horizon disaster who get together to learn about the spill and the associated environmental impacts.
