Saving Shark Pup

By Sharon Dalgleish & Amandine Thomas

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Sharon is the author of over 50 published fiction and nonfiction books for children, as well as numerous textbooks and resource books for primary/elementary school teachers. Melbourne- based Amandine is also an experienced illustrator whose books include Hedgehog or Echidna?, Taronga Big Book of Animals, and The Sea in Me. Here they have combined their talents and experience to create a touching and uplifting account of the rescue of a young shark stuck in the surf, a true event, aimed at very young children.

On September 11, 2017, people at Manly Beach were shocked and fascinated when a great white shark, ok, a little great white shark, washed up on the beach. Initial efforts to send him back were unsuccessful and as time was critical the marine experts from Sea Life Sanctuary found some innovative ways to get him back to his deep ocean home.

This story combines suspense and excitement as we read about the many efforts of different groups of people to keep the little shark alive. It is also a tribute to everyone’s determination, dedication and commitment. At each step along the way the reader learns about the reasons for the little shark’s actions. For an animal whose natural habitat is the ‘wild deep world’ everything has suddenly turned topsy turvey and the reasons for this are all carefully explained at every stage in the extra text accompanying the story.

The illustrations are a glorious complement to the unfolding drama, showing the contrast between the deep blue ocean, the pounding surf, the concerned bystanders and the work of the experts. It is all fascinating to see and read. An excellent teaching resource for primary school and an informative adventure story for the home library.

Teaching resources

A & U Children 2026

Sharon Dalgleish

Amandine Thomas

ABC article about the rescue