Fossil Fish Found Alive: Discovering the Coelacanth

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Walker, Sally. 2002. FOSSIL FISH FOUND ALIVE: DISCOVERING THE COELACANTH. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books, Inc. ISBN 1575055368

     2.  PLOT SUMMARY

     Walker tells the story of the discovery of the coelacanth, a fish previously thought to have been extinct many years ago. Walker begins the story in 1938 with the first modern discovery of the coelacanth by Courtenay-Latimer in South Africa. The book progresses to tell of the difficult time the Courtenay-Latimer had trying to preserve the fish for further investigation. Other scientists such as J.L.B. Smith, Hendrik Goosen, and Eric Hunt also became involved in the search for additional coelacanths. It was decided that the best place to search for this rare fish was in the waters of the Comoro Islands.  Finally, a second coelacanth is caught and the scientists are able to learn more about this prehistoric creature. This achievement spurs many others to continue the search and study of coelacanths for decades to come. Eventually, it became necessary to ban catching coelacanths to prevent extinction of the species. Instead, scientists chose to study the coelacanth within its natural habitat by diving deep into ocean waters. A marine park was created in the Comoran Islands to protect the coelacanth species.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Walker's use of primary sources such as the letter written by Courtenay-Latimer to J.L.B. Smith helps to prove the great care and detail that went into ensuring this book provided accurate and factual information. In addition, Walker includes an extensive source list at the conclusion of the book. Walker details her communication with first hand witnesses such as Courtenay-Latimer as well as other experienced scientists in the author's note included in the selected bibliography. Within the bibliography, Walker lists all books, periodicals, and websites she consulted while writing this book. Additionally, Walker maintains a neutral voice and avoids bias even when mentioning some slightly controversial topics related to the protection of the coelacanth. Walker also does not hesitate to differentiate between plausible explanations and theory that has been proven over time. For example, Walker mentions a faulty explanation by J.L.B. Smith, "It seemed that Smith's image of the fish as a crawling hunter had been mistaken" (Walker, 2002, 42).

Walker organized this book in a logical and orderly fashion according to the passage of time. The book tells the story of the rediscovery of the coelacanth in 1938 and continues up to modern time, detailing research efforts along the way. This clear sequence allows the reader to easily move around from place to place within the book without feeling as though they are missing out on important information. Reference aids such as chapter titles, subheadings, and picture captions make the reading process efficient and streamlined for the reader.  A table of contents, index, and glossary provide the reader with additional access points that make it easy to find specific facts or time periods related to the coelacanth. Photographs, timelines, and illustrations are matched accordingly with text to provide the reader with a visual image related to the current text.

Walker uses a simple yet inviting design to connect text, photographs, and additional reference aids. The colorful photographs easily capture the attention of the reader and beg for further inquiry to learn about this unique fish. The placement of timelines and illustrated diagrams does not interfere with the text, but rather supplements the information Walker provides through words. Although this book requires a significant amount of reading, a pleasing font size and color avoids strain on the eyes of the reader.

Walker's style is evident in the passion and zest with which she writes about the coelacanth. One can almost sense Walker's excitement as she writes, "Although Smith wished he could rush to East London, he had to finish his work in Knysna first. He would just have to be patient" (Walker, 2002, 12). Additionally, Walker is able to weave a list of facts and details related to the coelacanth into an intriguing tale of adventure and exploration. In her author's note within the selected bibliography, Walker admits that much is still unknown about the coelacanth. "Even with the help of specialists, I found I had to accept that many coelacanth questions simply haven't been answered yet" (Walker, 2002, 69). This admission will likely encourage readers to develop this same curiosity and need to satisfy questions. Walker undoubtedly used this writing style to encourage further study and research on behalf of her readers.  Overall, Walker has created an interesting story full of facts and information related to a unique creature.

4. PERSONAL RESPONSE: STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

Although this book appeared dull and uninviting at first, I found that I was quickly captured into the quest to find living coelacanths. I found the colorful photographs to be especially intriguing as I learned of this fish for the first time. One weakness I noticed was that the extensive amount of information presented in this book seemed to be overwhelming at times. The book covers the passing of time over several decades, and this may become overwhelming to a young reader. I feel that dividing the book into two parts (the earlier years and the later years) would provide readers with clear and defined access points.

5. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

"An outstanding history of scientific inquiry, this title will appeal to future oceanographers and excite them with the news that there is still important research to be done." (SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL)

"Walker writes well, making this relatively unknown area of science history an exciting story of exploration and discovery. Excellent, full-color photos illustrate the text." (BOOKLIST)

6. CONNECTIONS

*Students can read one of the other books suggested by Walker related to coelacanths such as A FISH CAUGHT IN TIME: THE SEARCH FOR THE COELACANTH by Samantha Weinberg (ISBN 1857029070).

*Students can read other books by Sally Walker related to ocean life such as SEAHORSE REEF (ISBN 1931465908).

*Students can work in partners or small groups to create a Prezi or PowerPoint presentation summarizing the information they have learned about coelacanths.