Ages 5-8. Allen and Humphries, collaborating again for the same notable ecological series that gave readers Tiger and Whale, look at the serious problems facing the Mediterranean monk seal. On a family vacation in Greece, Jenny is annoyed at how much her parents and older brother know about their vacation spot. Pleased when a young fisherman, Stefanos, agrees to take the clan out to a large rock, Jenny notices a seal she's seen before swimming around. Following the creature to a cave, she discovers more of the sea mammals, including several pups. Jenny is ready to divulge their secret, but the protective Stefanos convinces her not to betray the endangered animals ("If they are disturbed, the mothers may abandon the babies, even kill them"). Characterized by a distinguished handling of color and light and shadow, the attractively spacious watercolors in seaworthy shades of blue, green, and purple combine translucent backgrounds with realistic figures. The informative afterword expands on the narrative by discussing the dangers posed by fishermen as well as efforts to save the seals. Julie Corsaro Top About this item From the Author Reviews Seal Seal