John Bantin learnt to dive in 1979 and in 1992 it became his career. He spent over twenty years travelling the world, diving in all the best places, and gaining many different experiences underwater (not all of them good) which has furnished him with a vast store of anecdotes. He is known as something of an accomplished raconteur in the diving industry.
'John's memory for detail is impressive and he brings many a scene to life with subtle flashes of colour that many writers in this genre are not capable of summoning. There is a solid sense of environmental awareness and no tabloid demonising. John knows you have to be entertained to keep turning the pages and every page here is packed with amusement as well as insight. I'd recommend Shark Bytes to anyone with an interest in sharks and diving.' (Simon Rogerson, Scuba Magazine). 'A wonderful collection of first-hand encounters with sharks by diving veteran John Bantin, accompanied by his compelling imagery.' (Dive Magazine). 'Uncovers the magnificent reality of getting up close and personal to the bizarre and beautiful creatures of the ocean. These captivating and sometimes shocking encounters are accompanied by the author's own stunning underwater photography. This enlightening and inspiring collection of true stories gives you a taste of the magical diversity of the underwater environment, from all four corners of the world.' (BBC Wildlife Magazine website). 'John Bantin's easy-flowing and informative style is present ... adorned with lots of sumptuous photographs of sharks.' (Jeremy Stafford-Deitsch). 'If this isn't a Christmas gift to make divers' hearts beat faster, I don't know what is.' (Steve Weinman, Dive Magazine)