Dr Helen Scales is a marine biologist, broadcaster and writer, appearing regularly on BBC Radio 4, Sky News and the BBC World Service. She is also scientific advisor to the charity Sea Changers, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a tutor at the University of Cambridge. Her most recent book, Spirals in Time, was chosen as a book of the year by the Guardian, The Times and the Economist, and as Book of the Week on Radio 4.
The artwork is gloriously retro, echoing the original Ladybird house style but containing completely up to date information. --Shiny New Books on Octopuses Splendid . . . Scales clearly loves snails--she has done an elegant, excellent job of explaining her passion . . . she is a most able modern champion of molluscs. --New Scientist on Spirals in Time Scales's genuine appreciation and awe for fish are contagious. She continually entices the reader by introducing exciting aspects of fish in each chapter. --Science on Eye of the Shoal Effectively examines the seahorse's chameleon qualities, as well as the phenomenon of males giving birth-the only such instance in the animal kingdom. The author is also adept at delineating the seahorse's alleged healing powers, and she offers a fascinating study in the history of aquariums and the pursuit of 'queer fish' [...] the author makes a solid case for a rare and wondrous creature. --Kirkus on Poseidon's Steed A true natural history book, covering all aspects of the seahorse's involvement in the world [...] Scales is a marine biologist, and her fascination with the subject (she learned to scuba dive in order to observe this remarkable creature) shines through in her easy-to-read style and the way she uses the seahorse as a hook to discuss broader subjects [...] This is sure to appeal to both teens and readers interested in the natural world. --Library Journal on Poseidon's Steed A sprawling, ambitious underwater journey studded with fascinating tidbits. --New York Times Book Review on Eye of the Shoal A rewarding glimpse of another world, filled with strange and reclusive creatures . . . There is rich detail in all directions. One does not know what will come next. Often the descriptions made me see shafts of sunlight underwater, irradiating extraordinary places and creatures. That is just what the book does itself. --The Guardian on Spirals in Time A book to be appreciated by all ages. --Parents in Touch