Working Boats: Safety, Salvage, and Rescue

By: Tom Crestodina

Published by Blue Star Press, 2026-02-24

Featuring exploded views of 8 brave working boats built to save lives, save ships, and raise wrecks, this stunning picture book dives deep into the everyday lives of those assisting with daring rescues at sea and the dangers they face every day. Perfect for elementary-school aged kids (and their adults) curious about the mechanics of boats and the lives of people who work on boats, this eagerly anticipated follow up to Working Boats will look at the brave watercraft who ensure the safety and rescue of people at sea, and even those who safely salvage shipwrecks for valuable parts and cargo. You'll discover: what goes on behind the scenes of a motor lifeboat rescue on a dangerous and unpredictable river bar what’s involved above and below the water when underwater welders need to repair holes in ships to keep it from sinking boats whose job it is to lift shipwrecks out with a big crane and many more! Perfect for kids interested in how things work, this book is packed with detailed practical info to answer such questions as: What are each boat's mission? What are the jobs people do on board? What are the key components of each vessel (such blocks and tackles, steam engines, & anchor warps)—sure to sate even the most curious seafarer!