In my opinion this is a good book for a younger group of students. The book is great for younger audiences because it is a fiction book but also has real facts and information in small captions or labels. The style of writing encourages students to read and get excited about this book because they are following Larry through his journey but by using real information about the animals that live at each level of the sea the readers are learning nonfiction information that they can remember and use and build on. For example when Larry gets swept up in a “splash” or wave the reader reads that he paddles “in his dog-style… and explore for a while.” The reader is also able to explore the ocean like Larry by reading all the captions and labels. So the reader learns what a kelp forest is that Larry swims through or different fish that live in this kelp forest. This encourages reading and understanding because a student may know fish live in the sea but not what kind or that kelp forest are homes to these fish, but by swimming along and exploring with Larry these real facts students are learning information in a fun interactive way. The illustrations also aid in the books effectiveness. Larry swims through, “A garden of plants, bumped his nose and his knees, and grew like a forest of undersea trees.” The language used is clear but if a child had never had experience with a kelp forest they may be confused by undersea trees. However, the illustration of a kelp forest and the definition of a kelp forest help clarify what the author means by the statement. The language, writing (captions and labels_, as well as illustrations all aid in making this books effective and easy to understand. Students get invested in Larry’s adventure and finding Pete again as well as using information they can take away and use in other classes. The message of this book is friendship and being kind to others. Pete waited and looked for Larry until he came home and everyone on Larry’s journey was kind and helped him explore but also get back to where he belongs. ( )