The Incredible Octopus
nonfiction · First published 2024
Author guide
Erin Spencer Books in Order
Erin Spencer is a marine ecologist, science writer, and National Geographic Explorer. Her work focuses on marine life, ocean conservation, and public science communication. She is the author of The World of Coral Reefs and The Incredible Octopus, and studies great hammerhead sharks and their prey.
children's nonfictionmarine biologyscience writing
Catalog record updated .
Erin Spencer's Newest Book
Not sure where to begin?
Start with one of these
The World of Coral Reefs
It is Erin Spencer's earliest independently published book and introduces her accessible ocean-science writing.
Outside the series
Bibliography by category
Novels (2)
- The World of Coral Reefs
nonfiction · 2022
- The Incredible Octopus
nonfiction · 2024
Frequently asked questions about Erin Spencer
Who is Erin Spencer, and what is she known for?
Erin Spencer is a marine ecologist, science writer, and science communicator focused on ocean conservation and public outreach. She earned her Ph.D. in biology from Florida International University after studying great hammerhead shark behavior.
Sources: erintspencer.com (opens in a new tab)wm.edu (opens in a new tab)
What does Erin Spencer research?
Her research examines the movement, behavior, and energy needs of great hammerhead sharks, using biologging devices that record data as the animals swim. Her broader work includes marine fisheries and conservation.
Sources: angari.org (opens in a new tab)news.fiu.edu (opens in a new tab)
What inspired Erin Spencer’s interest in ocean science?
Spencer has said that family summers at the Jersey Shore helped foster her love of the ocean. Hands-on research, mentors, and marine-science training at William & Mary and VIMS further shaped her career.
Source: vims.edu (opens in a new tab)
Has Erin Spencer received notable recognition?
As an undergraduate, Spencer was accepted into National Geographic’s Young Explorer Program and later received additional National Geographic research grants. She was also recognized as a William & Mary Monroe Scholar.
Sources: wm.edu (opens in a new tab)vims.edu (opens in a new tab)
How has Erin Spencer connected marine science with the public?
She combines scientific research with writing, public speaking, classroom outreach, and media appearances to make ocean science accessible. Her stated goal is to help people become excited about marine life so they have a reason to care about conservation.
Sources: erintspencer.com (opens in a new tab)wm.edu (opens in a new tab)hachettebookgroup.com (opens in a new tab)