The Dolphin Smile

This book is a compilation of literature about the dolphin, mostly non-fiction and science, but with a dash of poetry and whimsy. The chapters are presented in three parts. 'Ancient Dolphins' includes writings through the 14th century: Homer, Ovid, and Dante. 'Modern Dolphins,' which spans into the 20th century, has readings from Shakespeare, Keats, and Hemingway. 'Contemporary Dolphins' has articles that were current as of the publication date, from the New York Times, Sports Illustrated, and Popular Science. There are about 100 chapters and a collection of photos, all devoted to this fascinating marine mammal.

The authors each provide a personal introduction to the collection. Ms. Clark experienced first-hand the joy of a ride on the back of a wild dolphin. Ms. Devine in intrigued by the wealth of literature that has been inspired by the dolphin. The articles celebrate its exceptional intelligence, physical prowess, ability to communicate, and its intriguing "smile."