Parents' Guide to The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean

The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Michael Berry By Michael Berry , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 9+

Sporty teen girls dive into ocean of fun and useful facts.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 9+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

The Surfside Girls move from the supernatural adventures of their two previous graphic novels to real-life lessons in THE SCIENCE OF SURFING. Young surfers Sam and Jade host a fact-filled tour of ocean science, introducing such topics as marine biology, the physics of waves, and how to surf.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Comics can be the perfect medium for nonfiction, and this engaging overview of ocean-related science is a good introduction to trekking through tidal pools and catching waves. Author-illustrator Kim Dwinell employs a pleasing doodle-like art style in The Science of Surfing, inviting readers to keep the pages turning. To keep the tone light, Dwinell uses jokes and character bits, and the result is a thoughtful and enlightening guide to the aquatic world.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how The Science of Surfing emphasizes the importance of the oceans. Why are they endangered, and what can be done to protect them?

  • Surfing can be dangerous. What safety precautions do you need to take when you are first starting out?

  • What does it mean to be a "good steward"? What can you do to encourage good behavior at the beach?

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

The Science of Surfing: A Surfside Girls Guide to the Ocean Poster Image

What to Read Next

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate