In "Sharks Don’t Sink", Jasmin Graham invites readers into her inspiring and sometimes turbulent journey as a young Black scientist navigating the world of marine biology. A memoir that is as much about resilience as it is about the survival of sharks, the book draws a powerful parallel between Graham’s own experiences and the tenacity of these misunderstood creatures, who have survived for over 400 million years.

Sharks, Graham reflects, stay afloat by constantly moving. In her case, the lesson is clear: when faced with the confines of academia that threatened to stifle her passion, she chose to keep moving forward—into uncharted waters. Instead of following the traditional academic path to marine biology, she struck out on her own, eventually co-founding Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), an organization dedicated to supporting young women of color in the field. Graham’s decision to break away from the constraints of institutionalized education and become an independent researcher—a "rogue shark scientist"—is a testament to her determination, adaptability, and commitment to both science and social justice.

At its core, *Sharks Don’t Sink* is a story of survival and empowerment. Graham not only challenges the expectations placed on her as a Black woman in a predominantly white, male-dominated field, but she also works to uplift other women of color in science. By founding MISS, she addresses the unique challenges faced by minorities in STEM and creates a platform for underrepresented voices. The book blends memoir with a call to action, encouraging readers to respect and protect some of the planet's most endangered species while also respecting and nurturing the people who fight to protect them.

Graham’s writing is both personal and professional, offering insight into the emotional and intellectual struggles of being an outsider in academia, while also sharing her deep love for sharks and the environment. Her narrative is filled with poignant reflections on identity, race, and perseverance, making it an essential read for anyone interested in science, social justice, or environmental conservation. As Hope Jahren, author of *Lab Girl*, aptly puts it, "Every girl who wants to be a marine biologist should have this book."

*Sharks Don’t Sink* is not just a memoir—it's a guidebook for those who feel out of place in traditional structures, those who need reminding that sometimes the only way forward is to create your own path. It’s an uplifting and timely work that shows how, like sharks, we must keep moving forward to survive, thrive, and make a lasting impact.

Really cool book idea looking at Jasmin's life following sharks, but especially from the perspective of a black woman in that world. The overall story made me learn more about sharks and various oceanography topics in ways I never knew before. Very easy read to learn about someone else's perspective and ability to develop a passion while working towards having a role in the world she is passionate about. Great book worthy of reading for a fellow human's story

"Sharks Don't Sink" fits into the scientist memoir category that also includes "Lab Girl" and "How Far the Light Reaches." Jasmin Graham, who abandoned plans to pursue a doctorate in marine sciences, now works as an independent shark researcher. She writes with clarity and passion about the need for greater diversity in science and for better mentoring for young scientists from minoritized backgrounds. The book blends a sort of field work diary with the story of her life in academia. Graham is still quite young and new to her role as "rogue" scientist; the slim volume may leave readers wanting more context.

This was a great read and I loved learning about sharks. They're misunderstood creatures and I find them so fascinating. Graham's story was also interesting to hear about.

I've been somewhat aware of MISS (Minorities in Shark Science) since before Twitter burst into flames, so I was excited to hear about this book. Jasmin details her childhood in South Carolina, her undergrad and grad school experiences, and how she struck out on her own to do independent shark research, while carving out space in a white, male dominated profession. This book has a conversational tone, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in any of the sciences, not just marine.
Thank you very much to Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, and NetGalley for the ARC!

This book is untraditional I would say. As the author says herself, it's a combination of sharks and social issues, which does not seem to go together but she makes work. This is hard to do and I have read other books by different authors that failed in this attempt. What I found more untraditional, however, is the style of writing. It's very personal and stream-of-thought. While it can be off putting to someone who might already be familiar with the concepts I do think it makes this book more approachable.

I did learn a bit about sharks from this book, even though I've read other shark books before. I liked that this book was hopeful compared to what it sometimes feels like with diversity as well.

Overall, it was pretty good and I think worth the read.

Sharks don’t Sink by Jasmin Graham is an engaging memoir from a Black scientist, who pursued her love of marine biology and especially the misunderstood animal the shark, despite the constraints of academia and feeling alone in her field. Graham ended up finding her kindred spirits in three other Black women, eventually forming Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), an organization that supports opportunities for other young women of color pursuing marine studies. As Graham shares her story she shares her comradery with her peers and with the sharks themselves because, much like her, they must continue to move forward so that they don’t sink. This is a fascinating read about the field of marine studies, the effects of racism and socio-economic status in the world of academia, and ultimately how one’s passion can unite many. A great read, especially for those interested in marine science.

I love reading about sharks. I also love memoirs of younger, female scientists. (Hello, Mireya Mayor's Pink Boots and Machete!) So, Sharks Don't Sink really hit the spot.

This was a fantastic look at the real experiences of a young, Black, female scientist fighting to get footing in her field. And when she can't get footing, she carves out her own damn ledge. I loved Jasmin's story and applaud her and all these other woman for doing it THEIR way and for making science a safe space for the others who will follow behind. The shark/science chapters are short and straightforward, interspersed with lots of information about Jasmin and where she comes from. I love this woman and wish her nothing but the best.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Learning about sharks and the struggles women, specifically women of color, have in sciences is what Sharks don't Sink centers around. Misconceptions about women in STEM and the shark are examined from both micro and macro aggressions. A great tool for DEI or career planning. Jasmine Graham presents an interesting and educational work.

Copy provided by the publisher and Netgalley

Jasmin Graham is a rogue shark scientist. She always wanted to study sharks, but was getting bogged down in the mainstream way to learn. She realized that there had to be a different way to learn & study about sharks. She & 2 other black women join together and form a new group Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), a group to help women like them. Her journey is inspiring and a joy to read.

I am slowly going through this and I am loving it. As an academic who also wants to pursue publication outside of academia, this book could not have come at a better time. I am loving it, and I know many people will also love it. Fuller review to come!!

This was so incredibly sweet! I’ve never read a book this directly related to my life, so this was very fun. Reading this felt like chatting with a new friend at a conference lol! It’s super inspiring and uplifting to see a woman of color doing amazing things in the marine science space, especially independently. This book reaffirmed why I also love sharks and the need to see more diversity in the field. It’s also so nice to see someone on a non traditional career path, and it gives me hope to see that there are other career options outside of tenure track faculty member. I hope someday I can meet the author at a real conference in the future! I have so many questions! (Though I did do some digging and believe I found the identity of Dr. Minion. Duly noted and will steer clear of working with him.)

My only complaint is that this book wasn’t longer. I would have read a much more in depth version of this, similar to “Life on Other Planets” which I read earlier this year. That being said, Graham is a bit earlier in her career than Shields, so I can maybe just hope for more books by Graham in the future? I can’t wait to see where her career goes in the future and the outcome of her newest project.

4.5⭐
Oh I loved this memoir! Graham’s love of sharks (especially the oh so charming bonnetheads) is so infectious. I too went to a science camp in middle school and became captivated with the ocean and sharks specifically, and am also plagued by anxiety, so seeing her talk candidly about how she balances her mental health with the sometimes unrealistic expectations of academia was very interesting as someone who never went into academia.

This book was the first time I had heard about Graham, and having finished it, I think that’s a huge shame, because she is doing fantastic work with public outreach about sharks. The work that MISS is doing is also so important, and I can’t believe I hadn’t heard about it before now. Graham in particular seems very skilled at public outreach and education, so I look forward to following her career, and will definitely pick up any future books by her!

The only thing lacking is simply that the book itself is relatively short, and there isn’t tons of time spent on Cool Shark Facts™, whereas I could happily read 500 pages of Cool Shark Facts™, so that was perhaps a bit of a missed opportunity.

“Sharks Don't Sink is a riveting, moving, and ultimately triumphant memoir at the intersection of science and social justice: a guidebook to how we can all learn to respect and protect some of nature's most misunderstood and vulnerable creatures--and grant the same grace to ourselves.”

I absolutely loved this memoir. As a conservationist, who absolutely loves sharks, I had high hopes and Jasmine delivered. Sharks Don’t Sink is such an important read and blends the worlds of conservation science and social justice - which many of us who work in the field should know are intricately linked. Advocating for such misunderstood and demonized animals world while navigating a field rife with sexism and racism requires such resilience. Getting to learn more about Jasmin’s love of sharks and her experience carving out her own pathway in the field is both emotional and encouraging. It’s more important than ever to have diverse voices in the field and I’m so glad Jasmin is in this fight. She also motivated me to finally test out getting scuba certified, and while I learned I’m a forest girl at heart, the ocean and all of its inhabitants can teach us so much.

**Title:** Sharks Don't Sink
**Author:** Jasmine Graham

**Review:**

"Sharks Don't Sink" by Jasmine Graham is a profoundly moving memoir that captures the raw and unfiltered essence of a woman's journey through the ebbs and flows of life. Graham's writing is honest and evocative, making this a compelling read from start to finish.

In this memoir, Jasmine Graham recounts her personal experiences with remarkable candor and vulnerability. From her early years growing up near the ocean to her professional career as a marine biologist, Graham’s life is interwoven with the sea’s relentless power and beauty. Her passion for marine life is palpable, and she vividly describes her adventures and challenges in studying and conserving sharks.

Graham's narrative is deeply introspective, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and self-discovery. Her reflections on her struggles with mental health, personal relationships, and the pressures of her career are both poignant and relatable. The memoir doesn't shy away from the difficult moments, making her triumphs all the more inspiring.

One of the memoir's strengths is its structure, which mirrors the unpredictable nature of the ocean. The non-linear storytelling allows readers to piece together the significant events of Graham's life, creating a tapestry of experiences that highlight her growth and transformation. Her writing style is fluid and engaging, drawing readers into her world with ease.

Graham’s love for the ocean and its inhabitants is a central theme, and her descriptions of her encounters with sharks are particularly captivating. She challenges common misconceptions about these creatures, portraying them with the respect and admiration they deserve. This aspect of the memoir is not only educational but also underscores the parallels between the misunderstood nature of sharks and her own journey toward self-acceptance.

A significant and impactful aspect of Graham’s memoir is her candid discussion of casual racism. She delves into the subtle and overt racism she encountered both in her hometown and within the scientific community. Graham provides eye-opening anecdotes that illustrate how pervasive and damaging these experiences can be. Her insights into the challenges faced by people of color in predominantly white spaces are poignant and thought-provoking. By sharing these experiences, Graham sheds light on the importance of diversity and inclusion in all fields, particularly in science.

While the memoir is deeply personal, it also resonates on a universal level. Graham's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of following one's passion despite the odds. Her journey is a reminder that, like sharks, we must keep moving forward to survive and thrive.

However, some readers might find the frequent shifts in time and setting a bit disorienting. Additionally, while Graham's storytelling is heartfelt and sincere, the writing can occasionally feel a bit dull, lacking the vibrancy that might engage some readers more fully. Despite this, the emotional payoff and the depth of her experiences make the book a worthwhile read.

In conclusion, "Sharks Don't Sink" is a beautifully written and heartfelt memoir that offers an intimate look into Jasmine Graham’s life. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and an unwavering connection to the natural world. This memoir is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human experience, as well as an awareness of the ongoing challenges related to racism in society and science.

If you enjoyed 'Shark Lady' by Eugenie Clark, you definitely need to read this book. Jasmin does an incredible job of evoking enthusiasm and wonder about sharks. Primarily a memoir, you'll also discover some fascinating facts about these creatures. I was thoroughly impressed with her writing style and appreciated how she skillfully navigated between two timelines. Learning about her experiences was deeply moving, especially witnessing her persistence and the positive impact she's had in a male-dominated field, paving the way for other women.

If you grew up loving marine biology, or are considering working in a science field, you need to pick up this book! Jasmin tells her story with such a unique voice - you feel like you are having a conversation with her as opposed to reading a textbook. Not only do you learn more about shark science, but also ways you can move through the field without following a pre determined path. Jasmin also shines a light on all the individuals around her - uplifting those who have guided her and those who are just getting their start. What this book lacks in literary qualities, it makes up for in character and content.

I was drawn to this book because I love to see women (especially women of color) in STEM. I can understand what it’s like being a woman in STEM since that’s what field I was in but obviously things are even more difficult for persons of color.

I thought the premise of this book sounded really cool and I was looking forward to learning about sharks. And there is some information about sharks but not as much as I wanted there to be. I also wanted the writing to be more scientific. The book had more memoir writing than science talk, which is fine. But I felt like those chapters were a little slow. Graham had important background to include to help drive her point across and to help illustrate the struggles that she’s had in the field. But I felt that there was still some content that could have been edited.

Forever grateful for strong smart women like Graham to be in the STEM field. To be role models for the next generation.

Thanks to Pantheon and NetGalley for the ARC!

"The public mostly tends to see sharks as deadly killers – likely thanks, in part, to the fictional Great White featured in the 1975 Hollywood thriller Jaws. They are rarely viewed as diverse, fascinating creatures that play a key role in maintaining balance in marine ecosystems. Jasmine Graham, a young shark scientist of color, who sees herself and her people in sharks, writes, “All too often Black people are perceived and treated much like sharks: feared, misunderstood, and brutalized, often without recourse; assumed to be threatening when so often we’re the ones under threat; portrayed unfairly in the media, so that others are predisposed to have a negative interaction with us.” She works to change people’s perception, providing diversity, equity, and inclusion training at universities to prevent attrition of talented people of color.

Scientists, she writes, often have a particularly hard time accepting their biases because they believe themselves to be entirely rational. So, she gives them tangible tools they can use to ensure that they are not making unfair assumptions about minority students or mentees.

Graham, who now serves on the board of the American Elasmobranch Society, could decide to earn her PhD and re-enter the academy, but she chooses to remain an independent researcher. “Going forward, I’m committed to contributing to peer-reviewed, quality publications, and doing research in a**hole- free spaces, only,” she writes.

For her next project, Graham plans to collect information about fishing stock and patterns from Black fishermen who have been fishing in Myrtle Beach for decades. In conservation circles, she writes, most assume that small fishers, especially those of color, are uneducated and have little to contribute to scientific research. Graham knows this is wrong.

She will also continue her work with MISS. “I truly can’t wait for the day when MISS no longer needs to exist,” she writes, “when we don’t need to fight to be heard or create a safe space. But, until then, we are here to help you insulate you as much as we can from the BS we had coming up.”

Sharks Don’t Sink is an accessible book about life as a marine scientist – and an empowering one. Graham writes in a simple, direct way about the sexism and racism many in the sciences have become inured to. Doing nothing, she reminds readers—whether in response to social injustice or to the destruction of the natural world— supports the status quo. We owe it to ourselves and to the planet to take action."

I feel conflicted writing this review, because I SO wanted to like Sharks Don't Sink, but I edit science writing for a living, so I can't, in good conscience, give this higher than 3 stars. I believe this book provides an important and valuable perspective on being a woman of color in science, and the author seems like someone I'd love to hang out with. She presents as fun and relatable; she is clearly a wonderful cheerleader for women and minorities, and is working hard to lower the barrier to entry into marine conservation science, which is amazing. I have a ton of respect for her and her work.

Unfortunately, I just didn't love the book. It's a memoir first and foremost, with minimal shark science peppered throughout. That's fine, but the quality of science writing was not great, and I found the writing overall to be pretty juvenile. I actually convinced myself it was geared toward middle grade readers. In fact, I think it might appeal most to young readers interested in marine science and conservation.

That said, I still think Graham offers a unique and important frame of reference, and her voice is one I hope to continue to see contributing to conversations around social justice and scientific research going forward.