HOLE IN THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA, weaves a hopeful tale of how clean energy can power our world with little harm to wildlife or the environment.

It all began with a hole in the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico. In April 2010 there was a "crack in the pipe in the hole in the bottom of the sea . . ." So goes the song by celebrated songwriter Christine Lavin in this updated version of a familiar folk tune. Hole in the Bottom of the Sea (HITBOTS), a musical retelling of the oil disaster, follows four creatures living in and around the Gulf of Mexico who were affected by the spill. In a story that only the musical genius of Ms. Lavin could create, HITBOTS weaves a hopeful tale of how clean energy can help save wildlife.

Accompanying Ms. Lavin's clever lyrics are lively illustrations by Betsy Franco Feeney, following the plight of the animals who stick together through thick and thin right to the squeaky-clean end!

A science-filled appendix written by Ms. Franco-Feeney, with the collaboration of several experts, follows the song. Not only will kids read about how we care for our precious wildlife when accidents happen, they also learn about the benefits of renewable energy. To illustrate wind energy in a fun way, instructions on how to make a pinwheel are included, suggestions on saving energy at home, discussion on renewable vs non-renewable energy, and complete sheet music is available as a download when you scan the QR code on the book's back cover.

The National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association compliments the author, Christine Lavin, and the artist, Betsy Franco Feeney, for their book, Hole in the Bottom of the Sea, which introduces children to the value of wildlife and to habitat preservation necessary for survival of wild creatures. Children are the hope for a better future. By making them aware of the human dependence on oil and the inherent problems associated with oil production, young people may be encouraged to conserve and to develop better alternatives for use in the future. With a simple text and stimulating graphics, the children can learn important lessons that still are fun for them.