Manatees: Our Vanishing Mermaids

Written and published in Florida, this small volume gives an excellent introduction to this subject. The text is accompanied by excellent black and white photographs throughout. Characteristics and an overview of the Manatee from a historical perspective is given briefly. Why this species is endangered is discussed. The habits and natural history is presented briefly. There is also an excellent section on where the Manatee can be viewed in Florida. For instance not many residents of the Tampa Bay Florida area know that Florida Power has a seasonal Manatee viewing center at the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, right outside Tampa. This is free to the public and during cold snaps large numbers of Manatees congregate at the warm water discharge. Also mentioned is "Snooty", perhaps the most famous Manatee in the world, right in Bradenton, Florida. Snooty has been in captivity since 1949 and has outlived most of his caretakers! All of this and more interesting facts are in this book. This book would be great for anyone planning a Florida vacation who would like to see these unique animals. It is easy to read, and would hold the interest of older children as well as adults.

For the money, this is a great value. Very interesting, easy to read book for kids 9+ and adults interested in manatees, conservation and where to see them.