The three sections of this book provide simple, basic information on the types of creatures found at the beach. There is general information on how shells are formed, and then specific information on thirteen kinds of shells: their size and color, what the mollusks eat and where they are found. Similar information is provided for five types of crabs and seven sea stars, urchins, etc. There are also craft projects with clear directions and safety tips. The drawings of each animal show enough detail for identification. This is part of the "Young Naturalist Field Guides" series. It was originally part of the "Take-along guide" series published by NorthWord Press. The bibliography includes books, videos, and web sites. The index is new but provides just slightly more information than the table of contents. 1998 (orig.