Mark Leiren-Young is a writer, documentary filmmaker, playwright, podcaster and orca activist. His book The Killer Whale Who Changed the World won the Science Writers and Communicators of Canada general audience book award. He wrote, directed and produced an award-winning documentary The Hundred-Year-Old Whale, and his documentary about Moby Doll is being produced by Middle Child Films. Mark hosts Skaana, a podcast about orca and ocean stories and is actively involved in the fight for the survival of the endangered southern residents. Mark has written for other young audiences for ABC, PBS, YTV, Treehouse and BBC Kids. His books for young readers include Big Whale, Small World, Orcas of the Salish Sea and the City of Victoria Children’s Book Prize winner, Orcas Everywhere. He lives in Victoria, British Columbia.

“Mark Leiren-Young is the kind of author who produces trustworthy works of nonfiction that will both entertain and educate children.”–CM: Canadian Review of Materials

Mark Leiren-Young's profile page

• Short-listed, Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award
• Short-listed, Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award
• Commended, Green Earth Book Award — Honor Book
• Commended, The Nature Generation Green Earth Book Award - Honor Book
• Winner, CBC Librarian Favorites Award
• Commended, Children's Book Council Librarian Favorites Award
• Short-listed, Green Earth Book Award
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids and Teens, starred review
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection

“A passion for sharks shines through…A great addition to a unit on ocean life, ecosystems, apex predators, or conservation.”

Children's Literature

“A wealth of fascinating research about sharks...If you weren’t a fan of sharks before reading Sharks Forever, you will undoubtedly come away with a new perspective. This up-to-date and comprehensive book will go a long way in convincing readers of the value of one of the world’s top predators and its rightful place in ocean ecosystems. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“Dramatic photos, real-life stories, surprising facts, and ideas of how to help save sharks keep kids engaged...a fascinating introduction to an awe-inspiring animal that should be revered not feared.”

Hakai Magazine