Otis and Will Discover the Deep: The Record-Setting Dive of the Bathysphere

K-Gr 3--This is a true science adventure story of two men, Otis Barton and Will Beebe, who explored the depths of the ocean down to 800 feet in a self-designed round metal diving tank, "a hollow metal ball" called the bathysphere. Their goal was to answer the question: "What did the deep ocean look like?" Rosenstock's beautifully crafted prose captures the tension and the awe of the experience. ("Shadowy shapes swam past the window. Mysterious lights twinkled in the distance.") The text is expertly complemented by illustrations that detail what is happening, and capture the emotion and fascination of the men. As the bathysphere descends, readers see what is happening both inside and outside the craft. Inside, the two men do various tasks, while outside the vessel descends farther and farther into the darkening waters. A magnificent four-page foldout first shows Beebe and Barton peering out at a depth of 800 feet. When the fold is opened, readers witness the answer to their pressing question. Finally, the intriguing back matter includes an author's note, an illustrator's note, and a note from a former assistant of Will Beebe, as well as a number of interesting photographs. VERDICT An outstanding work of nonfiction for school and public libraries.--Myra Zarnowski, City University of New York

Rosenstock (Dorothea's Eyes) provides a vivid account of a history-making dive of the submersible Bathysphere. In 1930, eminent scientist William Beebe and Bathysphere designer Otis Barton descend more than 800 feet in a herky-jerky plunge that Roy (How to Be an Elephant) depicts with stylized, action-packed watercolors. Text placed vertically alongside pictures of the swinging sphere (the repeated phrase "down, down into the deep" steps down the page) pulls the reader further into inky blue-black darkness: "400 feet. Stop. Colder. Breathe in. 500 feet. Stop. Darker. Breathe out." Spreads alternate between scenes of the two explorers working inside the cramped Bathysphere and exterior views of the descent. The tale of this perilous expedition climaxes in a spectacular gatefold showing the small searchlight-lit vehicle hanging amid myriad whitish-gray sea creatures, in an expanse of dark water. Archival photographs, a source list, and lengthy author and illustrator notes conclude this tribute to the power of curiosity, imagination, and ambition. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary Studio. Illustrator's agent: Stephen Barr, Writers House. (June)