Forest of the Sea Reviews

David Helvarg offers a mesmerizing picture of one of the most vital, yet overlooked, parts of our planet: the kelp forests sprawling just off our shores. This book is a call to action, and I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired me to stand up for the forests of the sea. 

Ted Danson, award-winning actor, long-time ocean advocate, and Oceana board member

David Helvarg makes clear in his book Forest of the Sea the kelp forests and the sea life dependent on this resource are in trouble.  His message is clear - if we are to protect our oceans, we must protect the kelp forests.

Leon E. Panetta, Former Secretary of Defense
Co-Chair Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation

Dive into the secrets of the sea with David Helvarg whose masterful new book, Forest of the Sea; is on point to inspire actions needed to explore, cherish and protect vital kelp systems, critically needed to help stabilize climate, biodiversity and the prosperity of life on Earth, humans very much included. 

Sylvia A. Earle, Oceanographer, National Geographic Explorer in Residence

David Helvarg’s lyrical prose and remarkable observational detail take you with him on a journey exploring the critically endangered kelp forests. He brings you with him under the seas, on the seas, and through land-based efforts to save the kelp forests. Beautifully written and evocatively picturesque, The Forest of the Sea takes you on breathtaking dive after dive into one of the least known, enchanting wonders of our planet’s ecosystems.

Ralph Nader, Author and Consumer Advocate


What an utterly fascinating book. If the world's kelp forests were on land instead of under the waves, they'd be as famous at the Amazon; We owe David Helvarg a huge debt of thanks for bringing them to light, as it were; it's a debt we can repay by doing something to protect this vital and irreplaceable ecosystem.

Bill McKibben, author and climate activist


As David Helvarg dives into brilliant kelp forests, he takes readers on a voyage of discovery. Kelp is the unsung hero of our ocean, and Helvarg illuminates its humble majesty in this beautiful and riveting narrative. Forest of the Sea is a gift to us all.

Susan Casey, author of The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean

David has dedicated his life to the protection of our precious Blue Planet. This deep dive into the fabulous world of kelp lays out not only the peril of these dynamic ecosystems but also a way forward that benefits the ocean and people. 

Ashlan & Philippe Cousteau, Ocean Restorationists & Founders Voyacy Group

David Helvarg has devoted his life to helping the sea, and now he turns his attention to the fact that kelp needs help. Like so many things, the solution is achievable. David tells us what we need to know and what we need to do.

Carl Safina, author of Song for the Blue Ocean and Alfie and Me.

Forest of the Sea is an important reminder of the world of kelp and how entangled our human lives are with giant algae.  David Helvarg’s dives, journeys, and meetings with memorable characters offers a balance of wonder and warning about the kelp forests of the world.

Craig Foster, Oscar Winner, ‘My Octopus Teacher’ and author of Amphibious Soul – Foster Brothers Film