Reef Libre: Cuba--The Last, Best Reefs in the World

Wintner (Some Fishes I Have Known), founder of the Snorkel Bob shop in Hawaii, takes readers on a tour of Cuba's thriving coral reefs through gorgeous photos and an accompanying mini-documentary DVD. The stunning photos depict wildlife among the reefs including moray eels, puffers, the "endearing" spotted drumfish, and indispensable sharks. These are intermixed with images of Cuban architecture, folk art, and ubiquitous vintage cars. A trip to rural Jucaro features propaganda billboards alongside horse-and-buggies. Wintner weaves in the narrative of his visit to Cuba while outlining reef conservation efforts, including the banning of spearguns and nets for fishing, protection of the shark population, and emphasis on organic farming. In contrast, he discusses the decline of reefs in his home state of Hawaii, brought on by the aquarium trade, corrupt politicians, and a destructive "shark eradication program." There are plenty of tips on cuisine, hotels and scuba locations to hit, though he insists the book is "not meant to be a tourist guide," but the vibrant photography is the star of this show. (Feb.)