Sy Montgomery, Patrick Joyce (Photographer)
Clarion Books (10/06/2026) 9781328987297
Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection for elementary and middle grade categories
Join veteran science writer Montgomery in a highly enjoyable journey into the sea to explore and study all that is beautiful about manta rays. A map at the beginning of the book establishes the story’s setting in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador, where Montgomery and photographer Joyce scuba dive to study the “enormous and enigmatic” manta ray. Narrative chapters follow researchers as they explore manta rays, their environment, and the other creatures in their habitat. Important primary facts about manta rays are incorporated throughout, as well as commentary on the limitations and challenges of collecting data about ocean animals.
Joyce’s photos are captivating shots of manta rays from different angles, aerial views of the research boat, and close-ups of the scientists’ equipment. Details, images, and Montgomery’s enthusiastic tone create an immersive reading experience; readers will feel like one of the scientific team members, cheering and diving alongside researchers.
Montgomery even explores the Puerto Lopez community members who champion mantas; a moving passage about a local advocate who died in a car crash reminds readers that while scientists are hoping to solve mysteries with their data, sometimes “it’s a blessing enough to stand washed in wonderment before mystery itself.” VERDICT: This fascinating peek into an underwater research expedition may turn sea creature fanatics into aspiring marine biologists. A great addition to any nonfiction collection.
– School Library Journal
In another fantastic addition to the Scientists in the Field series, noted wildlife chronicler Montgomery dives (often literally) into her latest subject, the oceanic manta ray, with enthusiasm and awe. Traveling to Puerto López, Ecuador, with a team of scientists studying these enormous and mysterious marine denizens, Montgomery and photographer Joyce document their research and share facts about these creatures, which are facing extinction.
Montgomery captures the excitement of seeing the manta rays and the chaos of choppy winter seas, as well as challenges facing the scientists, including the theft of research materials, illness, and diminishing sightings due to climate changes and commercial fishing. Particularly moving is the story of diver Antonella Galindo, whose untimely death greatly affected the research community. Galindo’s family joins the team on a memorial dive with her beloved manta rays, illustrating the healing power of nature.
Montgomery’s text draws the reader into the project, capturing the participants’ reverence for all marine life and the significance of teamwork and community in protecting vulnerable species.
Joyce’s photographs illustrate all aspects of the work, but what stands out most are the images of divers alongside the massive manta rays, both creatures observing each other and wondering what the other perceives below the surface. Inspired readers can use the included bibliography and appended resources to engage in supporting the cause.
— Casey O’Leary, Booklist, Starred Review.