This book is based on a true story of a humpback whale caught in fishing line. It is done in a perfect picture book format with an easy read, and a cadence that is pleasant. It tells a story that is so thrilling and harrowing and has a happy ending. The illustrations are lovely and the info in the back is spot on. This is a great resource for anybody who wants to know more about whales. ( )

Based on a true story!! ( )

When a humpback whale becomes entangled in some abandoned fishing nets, her life is endangered as she slowly grows too tired to rise to the surface of the ocean to get air. A human rescue team arrives on the scene, but they must proceed cautiously as they try to free her from this terrible trap. One roll of her massive body, and the human rescuers could be crushed! Fortunately they persevere, managing to rescue the whale while remaining safe themselves...

Based upon a real-life whale rescue off the coast of California in 2005, Trapped!: A Whale's Rescue is enough of a true story, despite its fictional trappings, that I added it to my children's non-fiction shelf. That said, it does straddle the line between fiction and non-fiction. However that may be, it is still a gripping story, one which will involve child readers and listeners, who will be rooting for the whale's rescue. The illustrations, done by Wendell Minor, who often works on books with an ecological theme, are just lovely, adding to the reader's enjoyment and sense of involvement. The final scene, in which the whale is leaping into the air, with the moon rising behind her, is simply magical. Informative back-matter, including suggestions for further reading, add to the educational value of a title that also has appeal as an entertaining tale. Recommended to young whale and nature-lovers, and to those looking for quality picture-books for them. ( )

The dramatic story, with outstanding illustrations by Wendell Minor, of the rescue of a humpback whale entangled in fishing nets and lines. Based on an actual event. ( )