Over and Under the Wetland invites young readers to explore the hidden wonders of wetlands—above the water’s surface and below it—through the extraordinary ecosystem of Everglades National Park.
Written by Kate Messner and illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal, this beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book reveals a world teeming with life. Over the swamp, barred owls call and great egrets glide on snowy wings. Under the water and among the roots, a hidden community thrives—panthers and orchids, turtles and raccoons, alligators and singing frogs—each playing a role in this complex, living landscape.
Part of the beloved Over and Under series, this book encourages readers to slow down, look closely, and notice the interconnected lives unfolding just out of sight. It’s both enchanting and educational, blending lyrical storytelling with accurate science to spark curiosity about wetlands and why they matter.
Why we love it
- Reveals hidden ecosystems above and below the wetland surface
- Celebrates Florida’s unique and precious Everglades
- Combines poetic language with real-world ecology
- Encourages observation, curiosity, and care for natural places
Great for
- Preschool and early elementary readers
- Florida families and Everglades enthusiasts
- Classrooms, homeschoolers, and nature programs
- Thoughtful gifts for animal- and nature-loving kids
A beautiful reminder that wetlands are full of life, stories, and secrets—if we take the time to look 🌾📘
