NF MIDDLE/HIGH

Unfathomable: 20 Wild (but True) Stories about the Ocean

Random/Bright Matter. Feb. 2026. 192p. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780593904756. Gr 4-8
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Gr 4-8–20 remarkable true stories drawn from the deepest, strangest corners of the ocean. Readers encounter an immortal jellyfish capable of reverting from old age back to youth, a man who survived being swallowed and expelled by a whale, and entire cities that now lie underwater. Each chapter functions as a self-contained narrative, offering rich detail and pacing that mirrors short-story writing rather than small paragraphs or snippets of information. The result is a text-heavy, immersive experience that rewards readers who stay with each story from beginning to end. The writing is captivating and clear, pulling readers in through the sheer astonishment of each event. Occasional text boxes add context or scientific facts without disrupting the flow. The book includes a table of contents, a glossary, and a thorough list of sources, but no index, underscoring that it is meant to be read straight through rather than used for quick reference. Artwork was not final at the time of review, though pages feature a water motif along the margins and many illustrations are expected to be full-page.
VERDICT A compelling, narrative-driven collection of astonishing ocean stories. Purchase for collections where incredible true accounts are in high demand.

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