If you’re anything like us, you love reading and you also love learning about the wonders of the underwater world. These are some of our favourite books about the ocean, many of which have been read by our Girls that Scuba Book Club!
With so many books to explore, we’ve carefully categorised them for you to find the right books for you. In this list, you’ll find fiction books about the ocean, as well as non-fiction ocean books. Finally, for those of you looking to share the ocean love with future generations, we’ve also got recommendations for children’s books about the ocean. Happy reading!
Fiction Books About the Ocean
1. The Island of Sea Women – Lisa See
The Island of Sea Women is a stunning tale of female friendship, set in the unique cultural background of the Korean haenyeo women. Mi-ja and Young-Sook live amongst the collective of women freedivers on the island of Jeju. They bond over their love of the ocean despite their conflicting backgrounds. Lisa See perfectly intertwines the women’s stories into the wider history of a country faced with decades of unrest and conflict.
2. Remarkably Bright Creatures – Shelby Van Pelt
Tova Sullivan, who is working in an aquarium whilst trying to cope with the loss of her husband, makes an unlikely friend in the form of a giant Pacific octopus. Remarkably Bright Creatures is a touching examination of loneliness, with an engaging element of mystery.
3. Playground – Richard Powers
Set in French Polynesia, Playground brings together the lives of four unique characters as part of a plan to send out autonomous, floating cities into the sea. Pulitzer Prize-winning Powers explores environmental and technological themes, alongside beautifully written characters.
4. The Mermaid from Jeju – Sumi Hahn
Another story about the enthralling haenyeo women, Sumi Hahn’s The Mermaid from Jeju is a moving story about a young Korean diver. Goh Junja’s life changes after World War II due to love, loss, and conflict. Filled with history, myths, and deep emotions, this book is perfect for anyone who enjoys powerful and immersive stories.
5. The Girl Who Fell Beneath The Sea – Axie Oh
If you’re a fantasy fan looking for books about the ocean, The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea might be for you. In this magical story, Mina is swept into the Spirit Realm and must uncover secrets to save her people. It’s an enchanting modern fairy tale, filled with adventure, romance, and beautiful mythology.
6. Deeplight – Frances Hardinge
Whilst technically a Young Adult novel, we think Deeplight is another gem for lovers of fantasy fiction and the ocean. Frances Hardinge weaves a thrilling adventure about a boy named Hark whose adventures unleash dangers that challenge his courage and loyalty. With deep-sea mysteries, strange creatures, and unexpected twists, this book is perfect for fans of dark and imaginative tales.
Non-Fiction Books About the Ocean
7. Deep – James Nestor
In Deep, James Nestor explores the ocean’s hidden depths in the context of the extraordinary abilities of freedivers who push the limits of human endurance. Blending science, adventure, and breathtaking underwater discoveries, it reveals the mysteries of the deep in a captivating way.
8. Secrets of the Octopus – Sy Montgomery
It’s no secret that scuba divers are captivated by octopus, and Sy Montgomery’s The Soul of an Octopus was our first ever Girls that Scuba Book Club pick! Montgomery returns to the world of these engaging creatures in Secrets of the Octopus. She dives into their remarkable intelligence, emotions, and problem-solving abilities. Through fascinating stories and scientific insights, this book reveals the deep connection between these mysterious creatures and the world around them.
9. Emperors of the Deep – William McKeever
Starring yet another of our favourite underwater species, Emperors of the Deep explores the fascinating world of sharks. It reveals their intelligence, the crucial role they play in ocean ecosystems, and the threats they face. Combining science, history, and conservation, this book challenges common misconceptions and highlights why these ancient predators need protection.
10. Fathoms: The World in the Whale – Rebecca Giggs
Continuing on books which focus on a particular creature, Fathoms: The World in the Whale by Rebecca Giggs explores the profound connection between whales and the environment. Giggs reveals how these majestic creatures reflect the impact of human activity on the ocean, offering a deep and thought-provoking look at our relationship with the natural world.
11. The Brilliant Abyss – Helen Scales
If you’re into the weird and wonderful creatures of the deep ocean, The Brilliant Abyss is for you. Helen Scales explores the mysterious deep ocean, uncovering strange creatures, delicate ecosystems, and the crucial role it plays in the health of our planet. Through science and storytelling, it reveals the wonders of the deep, and the urgent need to protect it from humans.
Children’s Books About the Ocean
Are there budding marine biologists in your life? Or are you a keen diver looking to share your love of the underwater world with future generations? You’ll want to add these to their bookshelves!
12. My Mum’s a Scuba Diver – Sarah Richard
My Mum’s a Scuba Diver written by Girls that Scuba founder, Sarah Richard, is a heartwarming children’s book about a young girl who admires her adventurous, ocean-exploring mother. Through vibrant illustrations and an inspiring story, it celebrates curiosity, female role models, and a love for the sea.
The book is currently available for purchase through the Girls that Scuba online store (the best way to support us!), as well as via Amazon. There’s also a “Mom” spelling available for international audiences!
13. A Turtle’s View of the Ocean Blue – Catherine Barr
A Turtle’s View of the Ocean Blue invites young readers to see the ocean through the eyes of a sea turtle, showcasing its vibrant marine life and the threats it faces. It’s a gentle way to introduce children to the importance of ocean conservation, featuring captivating illustrations and an insightful narrative.
14. Isabel and the Invisible World – Rick Allen
This is a story to truly inspire the budding young scientists out there. Isabel and the Invisible World follows a curious girl who longs to see the hidden wonders beyond ordinary sight. Blending science and magic with stunning artwork, it celebrates curiosity, discovery, and the beauty of light in all its forms.
