The Watchers

A dark cloud hung over the moon, but they could still see the outline of the shore. Brian stopped short and put his hand up to his lips to quiet their arrival. Yet it wasn't entirely silent. Timi noticed a clicking sound that echoed in her ears. They spotted a number of dark shapes moving in the water. Just then the cloud moved on and a shaft of light broke loose and flooded the bay. Timi gasped as she saw hundreds of them moving in towards the land. It was like a flotilla of boats landing on the beach. Timi looked at Sataki, whose eyes were almost as wide open as her mouth. Brian just stood, silently watching. The amazed group of explorers remained that way for a long time. Timi was, of course, the first to break the silence. This really is a special place, she whispered, What are they? Horseshoe crabs are wonderful creatures. They are ancient, valuable and often misunderstood, sometimes with tragic consequences. Terry Moore's moving, timely story shows us the plight of the horseshoe crab, and their importance to the health of the planet, through the eyes of children. This book can effectively bring the issues of pollution, ecology, and working together for change into classrooms and homes not only in New Jersey, but anywhere. Kudos to Mr. Moore for his fine effort. Judie Weinstein New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences