I always thought Underwater and Diving Adventure had their titles mixed up, as this third installment is more about the act of diving than the later entry with that title. Published in 1954, this book showcases the then groundbreaking technology of the snorkel, aqualung, and diving bell, referred to here as 'the iron man.' Considering the huge advances in underwater exploration since then, the awe with which the boys handle these familiar contraptions may seem quaint to a modern reader. Saying that, I've never had the guts to go scuba diving myself.
The plot continues the theme of capturing rare specimens for aquaria, but this plays second fiddle to the later conflict over a sunken treasure galleon. The Hunt brothers have been commisioned by a marine biologist of the Oceanographic Institution to study sealife and search for wrecks. As usual there is a surly villain to blight their fun. Although it contains its share of problems, there is a real sense that Price is trying hard to be educational, and the underwater gadgets must have been truly pioneering for their time.
Rating: 4/5
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