The Ultimate Book of Whales: Up-Close Encounters With Earth's Mightiest Mammals

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

Plunge into the wondrous world of humpbacks, dolphins, and every cetacean in between with famed National Geographic Explorer and photographer Brian Skerry as your guide.

This gorgeous compendium features all of the major whale species, from blue whales to belugas, right whales to minke whales, narwhals to orcas, and even dolphins. (Yes, dolphins are whales, too!) Get the inside scoop on how these beloved ocean mammals live, what they eat, and how they hunt, play, communicate, and care for their young.

Discover which whales have epic underwater battles with giant squid, why scientists think dolphins have unique names for each other, the challenges these animals face, and much more. With breathtaking photography, the latest science, and exclusive behind-the-lens stories from Skerry—including the time he rescued a baby whale caught in a lobster line—this book is a fascinating dive into all things whale. You’ll feel like you’re swimming right alongside these magnificent mammals.

Complete your collection with:

The Ultimate Book of SharksThe Ultimate Book of African AnimalsThe Ultimate Book of Big CatsThe Ultimate Book of Reptiles

Series Overview: Readers join legendary National Geographic Explorers on an unforgettable adventure to learn all about some of the coolest animals on the planet! Bursting with surprising facts, photos, fun, and important conservation info, this series is perfect for young readers who love animals, are eager to learn all about them, and want to help protect them!

About the Author

BRIAN SKERRY is an award-winning photojournalist and National Geographic Explorer. His recent docuseries Secret of the Whales won an Emmy Award. He has been a contributor to National Geographic magazine since 1998, covering a wide range of subjects and stories. You can follow his work on Instagram (@BrianSkerry) or at BrianSkerry.com.

STEPHANIE WARREN DRIMMER is a longtime writer for National Geographic Kids magazine and has written several books for Nat Geo Kids, including Hey, Baby!; The Book of Heroines; Surprising Stories Behind Everyday Stuff; and Mastermind.

Author Residence: York, Maine and Seattle, Washington