Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2013. Quarto, oblong format, dustwrapper, colour photographs.
A contributing photographer to National Geographic, Thomas P. Peschak brings us as close as possible to sharks in the wild. Alongside the photographs, this book tells the compelling story of the natural history of sharks. Sharks have roamed the oceans for more than four hundred million years, and an array of super-senses mark them as one of the most evolved groups of animals. Scientists have recently discovered that sharks play an important role in balancing the ocean, including maintaining the health of coral reefs. Yet, tens of millions of sharks are killed every year just to fill the demand for shark fin soup alone. Today more than sixty species of sharks, including hammerhead, mako, and oceanic white-tip sharks, are listed as vulnerable or in danger of extinction. The need to understand the significant part sharks play in the oceanic ecosystem has never been so urgent, and Peschak's photographs bear witness to the thrilling strength and unique attraction of sharks. They are certain to enthral and inspire.
Price: $73.00 AU