This title takes readers on an incredible journey to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most extraordinary, yet endangered, Troubled Treasures. Young travel enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the large, underwater photos of colorful corals, fish, sea turtles, and dugongs. A helpful diagram shows the life cycle of a coral, while a fun quiz helps readers learn to identify different types of coral. Students will also become familiar with UNESCO and why the Great Barrier Reef was named a World Heritage site. Colorful maps show where in the world the Great Barrier Reef is located and give a detailed view of the official World Heritage area. From the reef's formation to the development of tourism to today's conservation efforts, readers will explore the reef's history and its significance to scientific study. They will also gain an understanding of climate change and its effects on the sensitive ecosystem of the reef, such as coral bleaching. Tips for how to be a conscious tourist encourage kids to consider responsible environmental actions on the reef and at home. Informative sidebars and fun facts offer additional opportunities for readers to discover the Great Barrier Reef, while bolded glossary terms, phonetic spellings, and an index make this adventurous volume accessible! Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.
