Hold On!: Saving the Spotted Handfish

Description

Have you ever seen a fish that could do a handstand? This is the story of a quirky and primitive little fish that is famous for two reasons: walking on its 'hands' (pectoral fins), and being one of the first marine fish in the world to be listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Spotted Handfish has survived since the time of the dinosaurs - until now. Invasive seastars, pollution and climate change mean that this unique Australian is in serious trouble - hands up if you want to know more! Reading level varies from child to child, but we recommend this book for ages 6-10. Winner, The ACT Notable Awards, Children's 2020 (Big Press) Shortlisted, The CBCA Eve Pownall Award for Information Books 2021 Shortlisted, The Wilderness Society Environment Award for Children's Literature 2021: Nonfiction Certificate of Commendation, The Royal Zoological Society of NSW 2021 Whitley Awards: Threatened Species Conservation for Children

Gina M. Newton is a science communicator and award-winning author. She received the Children's Book Council of Australia Eve Pownall Award and a Whitley Certificate of Commendation for her book Amazing Animals of Australian National Parks, and is a Past National President of the Australian Marine Sciences Association. Rachel Tribout is an illustrator and graphic designer based in Tasmania. She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrations.

"A great and informative book for children that highlights an environmental problem but with a positive approach on how we can change things. The amazing illustrations are colourful and energetic which compliments the story beautifully. A wonderful book!" -- Peita * Maryborough Regional Library Instagram @mblibvic * "Children of all ages will enjoy this book due to the voice - spoken by the Spotted Handfish, the facts embedded throughout the story about what the Spotted Handfish is and also the story it tells of how the scientists are working to save it." -- Vanessa Ryan-Rendall * Educate.Empower * "Presented in a way that engages the reader with Handstand's story entwined and embedded with facts and accompanied by biologically-correct illustrations which have a childlike appeal." -- Barbara Braxton * The Bottom Shelf *