Kids learn best by doing, and when a book encourages them to make a sugar cube mountain, an iceberg in the bathtub, or a pair of undersea goggles, they’re likely to embrace it with great enthusiasm.

The Big Green Book of the Big Blue Sea presents oceanic science to kids using a conversational tone and fun ocean-themed experiments. Multitalented author Helaine Becker ups the book’s appeal with entertaining headlines and amusing introductions, while playing to kids’ love of all things funny and gross (“freshwater fish pee a lot!”).

The 35 experiments feature instructions that are clear and easy to follow, and use simple household materials, such as tape, a turkey baster, dish detergent, food colouring, sponges, and various food items. The text explores environmental issues including ocean pollution, dead zones, tsunamis, and oil spills, while explaining the science behind buoyancy, air pressure, locomotion, and more.

However, Becker’s interpretation of some facts does not ring entirely true. For example, a “g-force of 40,000” is described as being “about as fast as a bullet!” but g-force measures the rate of acceleration, not speed. In what may be a case of oversimplifying for a young audience, the book notes one study that refutes the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, saying: “They [scientists] concluded that the warmer climates of northern regions … are caused simply by being close to water – any water.” The study actually cites a complicated combination of water and wind direction as the chief cause of differing temperate zones.

Despite some glossing over or misinterpretation of the nitty-gritty science, the book functions for the most part as a dynamic introduction to the ocean, environmental challenges, and conservation. The ink-outlined, digitally coloured artwork by Toronto illustrator and comic-book artist Willow Dawson enhances understanding and lends clarity to the text, and a water-themed design dresses up an otherwise plain background.

With 80 pages of experiments and facts, this is a book that will keep young ocean enthusiasts entertained for months.