A Day on the Brine

A Day on the Brine by Susea Spray, illustrated by Emma Stuart (Spray Publications) HB RRP $19.60 ISBN: 9780645224061

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

A big blue boat is bobbing on the ocean at dawn. The captain spies a large white bird in the sky, searching for pink squid. A grey whale eats clear krill, and the captain tries to hook a bright green fish. Soon the sun sets, and the moon rises, shining on the brine as the captain cooks her fishy dinner.

Susea Spray’s lyrical text captures a day in the life of a boat captain at sea. Children aged four to eight will love trying to guess what each character can see before the page is turned, and in the process, they will discover the interconnectedness of the many different creatures found in, on and above the ocean. At the back of the book, there is a glossary for readers who want to know more about the creatures, plus a simple matching game.

Rich colours wash across Emma Stuart’s illustrations, from the red-and-white striped sail to the swish of cobalt and aquamarine in the water. Birds and animals such as the wahoo, albatross and humpback whale are portrayed realistically, adding a layer of authenticity to the protagonist’s nautical narrative.

Kids who are drawn to the sea and sailing will adore A Day on the Brine, and the stunning illustrations encourage repeat readings. Each careful examination of the book will strengthen appreciation for the delicate ecosystem of the world’s oceans.