- Published: 2 November 2010
- ISBN: 9781592405817
- Imprint: Avery
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 288
- RRP: $35.00
Poseidon's Steed
The Story of Seahorses, From Myth to Reality
- Published: 2 November 2010
- ISBN: 9781592405817
- Imprint: Avery
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 288
- RRP: $35.00
"Effectively examines the seahorse's chameleon qualities, as well as the phenomenon of males giving birth-the only such instance in the animal kingdom. The author is also adept at delineating the seahorse's alleged healing powers, and she offers a fascinating study in the history of aquariums and the pursuit of 'queer fish' [...] the author makes a solid case for a rare and wondrous creature." - Kirkus "A true natural history book, covering all aspects of the seahorse's involvement in the world [...] Scales is a marine biologist, and her fascination with the subject (she learned to scuba dive in order to observe this remarkable creature) shines through in her easy-to-read style and the way she uses the seahorse as a hook to discuss broader subjects [...] This is sure to appeal to both teens and readers interested in the natural world." -Library Journal "This seems to be just about the perfect book: small, delicate, elegant, charming, unusual, fascinating and uniquely memorable, a classic of its kind. In fact, now I come to think of it, Poseidon's Steed is itself a sort of seahorse of the book world." -Simon Winchester "This gem of a book has all the charm, passion, and compassion that one could look for in a great, relaxing read. Helen Scales is such a delightful writer and traveling guide that you won¦t even realize how much you¦re learning. Open the cover, go for a ride, have fun with this book. It¦s perfect for the beach." --Carl Safina, author of Song for the Blue Ocean, Eye of the Albatross, and Voyage of the Turtle "In this eye-opening book, Helen Scales reveals the heretofore well- kept secrets of what is probably the most fascinating and enigmatic of all the fish in the sea, the tiny, horse-headed, vertical swimming, tube-mouthed, prehensile-tailed, male brood-pouched Hippocampus; evolutionary mystery (how could such a creature evolve?), star of mythology, and now, poster-child for marine conservation." -Richard Ellis, author of Tuna: A Love Story