The Ultimate Book of Whales Up-Close Encounters With Earth's Mightiest Mammals

By: Brian Skerry, Stephanie Warren Drimmer

Published by Random House, 2025-06-10

Plunge into the wondrous world of humpbacks, dolphins, and every cetacean in between with famed National Geographic Explorer and photographer Brian Skerry as your guide.

This gorgeous compendium features all of the major whale species, from blue whales to belugas, right whales to minke whales, narwhals to orcas, and even dolphins. (Yes, dolphins are whales, too!) Get the inside scoop on how these beloved ocean mammals live, what they eat, and how they hunt, play, communicate, and care for their young.

Discover which whales have epic underwater battles with giant squid, why scientists think dolphins have unique names for each other, the challenges these animals face, and much more. With breathtaking photography, the latest science, and exclusive behind-the-lens stories from Skerry—including the time he rescued a baby whale caught in a lobster line—this book is a fascinating dive into all things whale. You’ll feel like you’re swimming right alongside these magnificent mammals.

Complete your collection with:

• The Ultimate Book of Sharks
• The Ultimate Book of African Animals
• The Ultimate Book of Big Cats
• The Ultimate Book of Reptiles