Book excerpt: Learn about the history of sea monsters in this photographic nonfiction leveled reader perfect for kids interested in the natural - and unnatural - world! Did you know that the legendary Hercules fought against the hydra, a sea monster with many heads? Or that the giant squid may not sink ships like the hydra, but it is still powerful enough to use its 30-foot-long tentacles to turn a whale into prey? That means that enormous creatures still lurk in the depths of the ocean! Embracing children's delight in the mythical creatures while also imparting fascinating facts about the real ones, discover the history of these special animals and decide for yourself if you believe in sea monsters! With simple language and vivid photographs, Are Sea Monsters Real? is perfect for emerging readers curious about the natural world and these legendary creatures.