Early Reader Review: The Ocean at Night by Isabelle Simler

Source: From Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.  

The Ocean at Night by Isabelle Simler 

Series: Nature by Night
Publisher: Pushkin Children's Books
Publication Date:  October 7, 2025

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Synopsis: 

Go under the sea—at night!—with this ocean book for kids ages 4-8 that’s full of jaw dropping illustrations and interesting facts about marine life.

The first installment in the children’s picture book series, Nature at Night, by a celebrated author/illustrator.

Combining jaw-dropping illustrations with poetic language and interesting ocean animal facts, this stunning kids picture book is perfect for ages 5+ who are curious about wildlife and the ocean!

By showing the undersea world at night, award-winning author-illustrator Isabelle Simler presents this mind-blowingly beautiful place in a way that will appeal to the whole family—and ignite a fascination in the mind of any young reader.

• Turtles lay their eggs on a beach by the light of the setting sun.
• Majestic seabirds plunge into the waves as a pod of dolphins leaps from the water.
• Whales trawl the darkening waters below for plankton, and swordfish hunt their prey.
• Rays skim above the sandy seabed where octopuses prowl…

An immersive exploration into the fascinating and mysterious world of the nocturnal ocean that will delight and fascinate kids and parents alike.

Review: 

This was so beautiful! I have already recommended it. 

The Ocean at Night is a gorgeously illustrated book that captures the magic of the ocean from night to day. The vivid colors and sweeping linework create a sense of motion across every page, drawing the reader into a world that is both realistic and whimsical. Each spread brings the ocean and its inhabitants to life—whether they dwell in the sky, sea, or along the shore.

The text is cleverly structured, with the top line narrating the poetic story of the ocean itself, while the bottom lines share interesting facts about the creatures featured. This dual approach makes the book both lyrical and educational, and I think parents and young readers will really adore this approach. 

My favorite spreads were those featuring the moon glowing over the rippling waves and the mesmerizing depictions of microscopic ocean life. These moments were both beautiful and awe-inspiring, highlighting the book's ability to spark wonder in young readers and adults alike.