Get to know the southern sea otters floating in Monterey Bay. Find out these enchanting creatures survive in cold waters (really warm fur), why sea otters rest with their paws up (to conserve heat), how they eat (in the water, floating on their back), and more. Great close-up photographs. (Picture book)

Also, get the scoop on the seals and sea lions you'll see barking on the rocks in Monterey: A Colony of Seals

Giant kelp beds are home to sea otters, seabirds and seals. Discover the kelp forest layers, what lives in the kelp forest (bright orange garibaldi fish, hermit crabs, rockfish,) and what eats kelp. Colorful photographs. (Illustrated chapter book)

Fictional diary of Rosalinda and Simon Delgado, teenagers on a rancho near Monterey. It's 1838, and Padre Ramon, visiting from Mexico City, is a treasure trove of stories – tales of pirates in Monterey and uprisings at the Carmel Mission. Excellent historical illustrations. (Chapter book)

Monterey, 1818. Life is peaceful in Spanish-controlled Monterey, until a black frigate sails into the bay and buccaneers attack the town. When young Carlito's father is shot and killed, Carlito tries to burn the pirate ship, but ends up a stowaway, sailing down the coast of California. (Chapter book)