*Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Watercraft by Tom Crestodina

With engaging text, cutaway art, and beautifully detailed illustrations, Tom Crestodina introduces young readers to the world of working boats in Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraft.

*Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraft by Tom Crestodina. Little Bigfoot, 2022. 56 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture books, ages 4-8
• Recommended For: Ages 4-10

“The skipper hollers ‘Let ‘er go!’ With a rumble, a clang, and a puff of smoke, the seiner (SAY-ner) and skiff set their net.” Meanwhile, with engaging text, cutaway art, and beautifully detailed illustrations, Tom Crestodina introduces young readers to the world of working boats.  

Based out of Washington, this book features American working boats you might find in the Pacific Northwest, from a Washington double-ended ferry to a Bristol Bay Gillnetter. Crestodina’s intricate color illustrations provide looks at cutaways of 10 different ships and well written, informative text is sure to keep young (and old) turning pages.  

The tone of the book is reminiscent of Richard Scarry’s Busytown, but with real people and more informative text. The illustrations are similar to David Macaulay’s How Things Work. From fireboats and halibut schooners to NOAA Research ships and double-ended ferries, boat lovers are in for a treat. With in-text notes on pronunciation of difficult words and sections explaining safety gear, how engines and propulsion work, and a full glossary in the back, readers of all ages are invited to learn about the world of working boats.

*indicates a Redeemed Reader starred review, an outstanding example in its field.

Bottom Line: An excellent, informative picture book, Crestodina’s illustrations, explanations, and evident love of all things maritime prove a delightful introduction to the world of working boats.

Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader

• Book Review: The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
• Book Review: Who Built That? A fun book about 10 different types of bridges
• Book Review: Rube Goldberg’s Big Book of Building takes those young engineers to a more imaginative level, complete with instructions!

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