Shark Lady
Picture Book Read Aloud
book summary
Shark Lady tells the true story of Eugenie Clark. Eugenie Clark fell in love with sharks from the first moment she saw them at the aquarium. From that moment, she knew that she wanted to study sharks. However, Eugenie quickly learned that most people believed that sharks were scary and ugly and did not see them as the beautiful creatures that she did. Many people also did not think that women could be scientists.
Eugenie set out to prove everyone wrong. She earned several college degrees, became a zoologist, and spent her live studying and learning about sharks. Eugenie became so well known for her discoveries about sharks that she was referred to as the “Shark Lady”. Through her accomplishments, she taught the world that sharks were to be admired rather than feared and that women can do anything they set their minds to.
suggested teaching point
There are several opportunities for readers to analyze characters as they read Shark Lady.
After reading the first five pages of the book, the reader can tell that Eugenie is very determined. Ask readers to share an example from the text that shows that Eugenie is determined.
After reading page 12, we learn that some of Eugenie’s professors “thought that women weren’t smart enough to be scientists or brave enough to explore the oceans”. Have readers make an inference. Why would some of her professors think that she was not smart or brave enough to be a scientist who studied oceans? How do you think Eugenie felt when her professors told this to her?
After reading page 17, we learn that while diving in the Palau Islands, Eugenie sees her first wild shark. How does Eugenie feel when she sees the shark? Would you feel the same way as Eugenie if you saw a shark while swimming? Why or why not?
Looking for more teaching points for this book and other similar books? Check out more Interactive Read Aloud Lessons HERE.
