For the younger shark fans out there, Biscuit® digital media has released a shark-themed children’s book for iPad. According to Biscuit® “Sparky the Shark – A Frighteningly Funny Advenutre” follows the story of Sparky, a friendly but misunderstood shark, and his penguin pal Dax on their adventures to find a new look for Sparky.

The digital book features 33 illustrated pages and includes other interactive activities. An optional “Read to Me” feature that offers voice-over narration for younger readers is also included.

“Sparky the Shark” is now avaialable at the iTunes App Store for $3.99.

Proposed Shark Fin Ban

Update A representative from the Center for Oceanic Awareness, Research, and Education (COARE) has informed me that HB4119 was drafted by COARE and is being supported by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the Humane Society International (HSI).

A bill that would ban the possession, sale, trade, and distribution of shark fins in the state of Illinois has been proposed by State Representative Sara Feigenholtz, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The proposed bill HB4119 is collaborative effort between Feigenholtz and the Illinois wing of The Humane Society of the United States.

If passed, the bill would go into effect in January 2013, with an additional 6-month grace period for fins already in possession. For more information on the proposed bill, check out the Sun-Times article, or head over to the Illinois General Assembly website to read HB4119.