Snow
Snow is commonly formed when water vapor changes directly to ice without first becoming a liquid, this process is known as deposition. When temperatures of less than 32°F are at the higher altitude in the atmosphere the ice crystals are created. The snow flakes are able to stay frozen as they fall because the temperatures stay below 32°F all the way to the ground.
This definition and a wonderful illustration of the formation of a snowflake can be found at http://wfmz.com/view/?id=650761&title=How%20is%20snow%20formed%3F&t=homework_help_view and another good definition can be found at http://www.blurtit.com/q836092.html.
The following titles offer information about snow, feature stories that take place in snowy settings and present accounts of activities that only take place due to snow.
Compiler: Marilyn Courtot
Reviews
Anna's Wish
Friederike Rave
There had not been snow in Anna's town for many years. Winters were cold and gray and all the people had begun to give up on seeing snow again. Then one day as Anna and her mother walk by the bakery, Anna is drawn to a small white horse standing on one of the cakes in the window. The white, crystalline frosting he stands on makes Anna curious about what snow is like. Her mother tells her of the long ago days of snowmen and sledding. The next day, after dreaming of snow, Anna returns to the bakery in search of the little white horse. With her nose pressed to the window she wishes for snow more than she has ever wished for anything. Her wishes rise up to the sky and return to earth as snowflakes, covering the city and bringing joy to all. With a hint of magic, this is a fun, beautiful story with delightful illustrations that bring the gray days and snowfall to life. 2008, North-South Books, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Stephanie R. Pearmain (Children's Literature).
In this imaginative picture book, Anna wishes for snow. She lives in a city that experiences the coldness of each winter without a single snowflake. Anna's mother still remembers the snow from her childhood, so she tells Anna about the magic of winter weather. One day, Anna feels "something" when she goes past a bakery. She stops to peer in the window at all of the winter cakes and treats. With the help of a white horse cake decoration, Anna begins to wish it would snow. Soon, her wishes fly up into the sky and reappear as snowflakes. This story is dreamy, magical, and extremely well-illustrated. The images are bright and filled with winter detailing. It is not a book for a classroom lesson about weather because of the whimsical wishing element, but it would make a good book for general read-a-loud. It would also make a nice bedtime story, as it encourages imagination and dreams. 2008, North-South Books Inc, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Renee Biermann (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780735822078
ISBN: 0735822077
Baby Polar Bears' Snow-Day
Michael Teitelbaum
In the spring, two polar bear cubs leave their den to explore the frozen landscape for the first time. Cautious in the beginning, they stick close to their mother, rolling and tumbling in the snow as they play. But there is so much more to see that they soon venture off, chasing each other until they get tired. Hungry and lonely, they wonder where their mother is. She is close by, and all are soon reunited to head back home. From the "Photo Adventure Book" series, this simple story and the accompanying close-up photographs are ideal for parents to share with young children. Each page of text has one or two words that are printed in an extra large, bold font so that they can be read easily by the emerging reader. Fact stops along the way provide additional information about polar bears; these can be read separately or along with the story. Questions are provided at the end of the book to spark discussions between parents and their children. The page numbers are set on polar bear footprints, and the question numbers on the final page are printed on snowballs. 2009 (orig. 2008), Treasure Bay Publishing, $9.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Renee Biermann (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781601152817
Blizzards
Jenny Vaughan
A blizzard is more than a lot of snow: blizzards couple high winds with heavy snow to the extent that visibility is compromised, making icy roads even more dangerous. Extreme weather affects people and the planet, and this title, part of the "Wild Weather" series, focuses on the science behind these dramatic storms. Author Jenny Vaughan structures the book in a question-and-answer format to inform young readers about how snow forms, what causes blizzards, and where blizzards are most common. Practical information about getting around during blizzards, survival skills, and the dangers of cold weather are a stark contrast to the sections about the plants, animals, and people who thrive in cold climates. Creative book design breaks in-depth information into manageable sections with pulled-out features about specific topics, clever use of color blocks, diagrams, and eye-catching photographs. The issue of global warming is included, as is a glossary and index. The international scope of the book and the author's deft handling of a lot of scientific information make this accessible book an important addition to elementary libraries for use in classroom studies of weather, mountains, the Arctic and Antarctic, and winter. 2009, QEB Publishing/Black Rabbit Books, $27.10. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Keri Collins Lewis (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781595665867
ISBN: 1595665862
Carl's Snowy Afternoon
Alexandra Day
Carl, the remarkable canine hero of a series of tales, returns to take his family's youngster on another basically wordless adventure. Left with a new, obviously careless sitter, Carl helps his young buddy dress warmly for a joyful romp in the snow. They help build a whole snow family, sled down a snowy hill, slip and slide on an icy pond. Then Carl gets hitched to a sled for a ride. Carl helps them both to hot dogs from a stand. As more snow begins to fall, the two adventurers climb back into the house, clean up, and are ready to greet the parents, who know nothing of the fun we have seen them have. The visual tale is told in naturalistic watercolors, presenting a most attractive snowy suburban landscape with the details of the adventures of child and dog, sometimes in double-page scenes and other times in action vignettes. Attractive, attentive Carl may help here to diminish some of the bad press about Rottweilers. 2009, Farrar Straus Giroux, Ages 3 to 7, $12.99. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-374-31086-8
ISBN: 0-374-31086-6
Downhill Skiing For Fun!
Jessica Deutsch
Another term for downhill skiing is Alpine skiing and there are several forms of downhill skiing that this book explores. Topics range from where to go to ski to the equipment needed and things for beginner skiers to try. Much of the book features information about the techniques to use for downhill skiing, such as the snowplow, using the edge of the ski, and how to fall. Another chapter talks about the biggest challenge to skiers: snow and the different types of snow and how it affects the skier. The short chapters feature vibrant pictures, profiles about current professional skiers, colorful graphics and text boxes, and short bits of information to create an interesting and fast read. This book could be included in a health curriculum even in the non-winter months to draw parallels between skiing and other sports/physical exercise. Different types of skiing can present something for everyone in terms of enjoyment, so readers may find a new sense of adventure from reading or even skimming this book. 2009, Compass Point Books, $25.32. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Shelly McCoy (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780756540289
ISBN: 0756540283
Dump Trucks and Dogsleds: I'm On My Way, Mom!
Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver
Hank is not prepared to share his bedroom, but that is exactly what is going to happen when the new baby arrives. He gets ready by putting a clothespin on his nose. He is well aware of what kinds of smells accompany a baby. His parents take notice of his impertinent behavior and decide that his father will take Hank and his sister Emily on a special "pre-baby" ski trip. Their trip is cut short when the baby decides to arrive earlier than planned. The family piles back into their car and heads for home. Instead, they plow directly into a snowstorm. This determined bunch is not about to let a little snow stop them from being present at the new baby's arrival. Unfortunately, they are unable to drive the car through this massive whiteout. The train is the first alternative option. But there are no more seats, and they are forced to bunk with two massive members of the equine family. The horse car only carries them so far. Next up is hitching a ride with acrobats! This family will do whatever it takes to get home as soon as they can. Luckily, an unexpected opportunity allows the family to be where they need to be and right on time. Hank's hilarious wit and charm will keep readers coming back for more. Book 16 of the "Hank Zipzer" series. 2009, Grosset & Dunlap/Penguin, Ages 9 to 12, $4.99. Reviewer: Summer Whiting (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-448-44380-5
ISBN: 978-0-448-44381-2
The Ex Games
Jennifer Echols
The romantic drama heats up the snowboarding slopes in this teen-centered romp, which is part of the "Romantic Comedies" series from Simon Pulse. Engaging and page-turning from the start, the plotline centers on Hayden, an avid snowboarder, and her high school love interest (and ex-boyfriend), Nick. The tension between the two sizzles, and the stakes are raised when Nick challenges Hayden to a snowboarding competition, which quickly becomes the talk of the town. The book is at its best when Hayden and Nick get along; the dialogue pops and the details are immediate and relatable. Hayden is an easy-to-like narrator, and her athleticism and tendency to speak her mind set her apart and help her avoid becoming generic. The supporting cast of characters adds additional fun, especially Hayden's competitive, realistic, and hilarious brother, Josh. At times, though, the book seems to get bogged down in the creation of drama – as the story unfolds, Hayden's fights with Nick seem less and less believable as conflicts between people who secretly like each other, and the romantic tension begins to wane. Still, this is a fun recreational read, and teens in search of leisure reading will enjoy the addictive antics and satisfying resolution. 2009, Simon Pulse/Simon & Schuster, Teens, $6.99.
Reviewer: Elizabeth McMunn-Tetangco (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4169-7846-6
ISBN: 978-1-4169-8538-9
Gabriella the Snow Kingdom Fairy
Daisy Meadows
Friends Kirsty and Rachel are thrilled to be on a winter vacation together. Things get even more exciting when they meet Gabriella, the Snow Kingdom Fairy, who needs their help to retrieve her magic snowflake from the wicked Jack Frost. Why does she need their help specifically? The reader does not know. In fact, this story is laden with implausible plot elements. For one thing, Gabriella can turn the girls into snowmen with her magic but cannot, for some reason, incapacitate the goblins in order to reclaim the snowflake. Once they get the snowflake back in what should be an exciting ski chase (but really is not), Jack Frost steals the festive spirit from the Fairyland castle, causing the reader to wonder why security is not increased after the first incident. Then the girls--perhaps in an effort to teach good morals--will not lie to Jack Frost about the whereabouts of Gabriella, yet they purposely mislead him by omission. Finally, when Jack Frost steals the magic firestone, thus preventing fires of any sort, the story descends beyond ridiculous. Tension should be mounting as the community gathers for the bonfire at the Winter Festival, but all that is growing in the reader is disbelief. Simple, uninspired illustrations match the simple, uninspired story. Even a "special winter word" hidden in the snowball illustrations will not intrigue the reader. 2009, Little Apple/Scholastic, Ages 6 to 9, $6.99. Reviewer: Michele C Hughes (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-545-10614-6
Half-Pipe Prize
Jake Maddox
Tess can't wait to get back to Winterfall. She and her parents have moved to River City, but she's surprising her best friends, Ana and Sofie, by coming back in time for the annual snowboarding competition. Tess has always won her age group before, and she wants to be the first city kid to take the title. But Sofie is not as happy to see Tess as she expected. Sofie has her own hopes for the snowboarding competition, and Tess finds some difficult choices between her plans and her friendships. The plot and characters are straightforward, but well-developed. Tess and her friends are likeable and easy to identify with. This book will be of special interest to those involved in snowboarding, but the situations will be familiar to many girls. This leveled reader will be useful in upper elementary classrooms with students reading below grade level. The story is interesting enough for individual reading, but the glossary, discussion questions, and writing prompts in the back allow it to easily be used in the classroom. 2010, Stone Arch Books/Capstone Publishers, Ages 9 to 12, $23.99. Reviewer: Jennifer Lehmann (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-4342-1607-6
Houndsley and Catina and the Quiet Time
James Howe
Illustrations by Marie-Louise Gay
As the first snow of winter fell, Houndsley was pensive as he thought of a quiet day indoors. Catina began to worry that they would be snowed in and miss performing the concert they had been practicing for months. The snow continued to fall and to keep Catina from fretting, Houndsley engaged her in quiet indoor activities from writing poems and baking cookies to sitting before the fire. In the late afternoon they ventured outside and joined their neighbor Bert and all their musician friends and managed to hold an impromptu, "quiet" concert. The cornerstone of this latest adventure of friends Houndsley and Catina is the lyrical language – "the world had no shadows, only white on white" and "the notes fell on listening ears like snowflakes on waiting tongues" – woven into this slim, easy to read selection. Each of the three chapters builds on the previous for a cohesive and satisfying whole. Gay's watercolors capture the quiet whiteness of the world outside and the warmth and comfort of the friends' home. 2009 (orig. 2008), Scholastic, Ages 5 to 8, $4.99. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3384-4
ISBN: 978-0-7636-4533-5
Jan Brett's Snowy Treasury
Jan Brett
Snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy Brett's treasury of four, delightful tales that are together one collection. Join in the merry chase as the mischievous Gingerbread Baby runs through the Swiss village and into the woods for a surprise. Next, find out what happens to Nicki's lost, white mitten while he plays in the snow all day. Then, see how Hedgie, the hedgehog, accidently begins a new fashion trend for the animals on the farm. Lastly, discover who visits the igloo of the snow bears as they are out for a walk. Each of these wintery stories has its unique twist on a familiar folktale. The beautiful, detailed illustrations are attractive, colorful, and bright. The borders around the illustrations are intricate and also hold a subplot that adds information to the main story. The author's note at the front of the collection reveals her inspiration for the stories. Enter the snowy settings of this treasury again and again. 2009 (orig. 1989, 1997, 1999, 2007), G. P. Putnam's Sons, Ages 3 to 7, $29.99. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-399-25401-7
Katy and the Big Snow
Virginia Lee Burton
For over 60 years young children have identified with Katy the snowplow who was always waiting for her big chance to plow her way to fame. For winter after winter, Katy has few opportunities to show off until the year of a big blizzard. Now Katy is challenged to keep chug, chug, chugging her way to rescue the citizens of Geopolis, helping all kinds of stranded people get to the hospital, to the airport, and of course, to get safely home. This reissue of the story in paperback storm is fancied up a bit with sparkle on the cover and stickers at the back. Children will certainly enjoy these add-ons but in the end, they aren't necessary. It's Burton's tribute to perseverance and her wonderful sketchy drawings that will make yet another generation of children eager to hear the adventures of Katy again and again. 2009 (orig. 1971), Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Ages 3 to 6, $6.99. Reviewer: Mary Hynes-Berry (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-395-18562-9
The Longest Night
Marion Dane Bauer
Illustrated by Ted Lewin
Bauer paints a poetic verbal picture of a long, dark night with deep snow, when "the stars are ice, the moon is frost, and the entire world is still." Bears and mice sleep; the wind wails; and the crow caws, "Gone!" telling how he saw the sun go and how he will wake it up. "Gone!" cries the moose, declaring that he will scoop it up. "Gone!" barks the fox, who says he will sniff it out and dig it up. To each the wind says, "Not you." Only the chickadee can bring back the sun, says the wind, to the surprise of the others, but it is the "dee and dee" of its song that finally causes the sun to open his eyes and smile; then "the journey toward spring begins." For this variation on a myth common to many cultures, Lewin's equally poetic double-page scenes communicate the deep silences of the winter forest. Using only three watercolor pigments for almost all the illustrations, he creates the trees, rocks, and snowy blanket as well as the quartet of creatures, respectful of anatomical facts but investing each with an almost mystical presence. The chickadee perched on a tangle of naked branches on the jacket/cover almost shows us the gentle voice that might well coax the sleeping sun to action. Close-up portraits of the other characters are equally effective. Do not miss the end pages.
2009, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8, $17.95. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-8234-2054-4
Look Inside an Igloo
Mari Schuh
Take a close up look at an igloo. Find out what it is, what it looks like, and how it is made by reading the text and looking at the color photographs that are in every layout. A few of the pictures show the interior of the igloo. There is a brief description of how the igloo is used currently. The text and photographs support each other. The informational text features are simple and basic. With adult guidance, children may learn about using the table of contents, glossary, and index. Some children may need help with the content vocabulary in the text. There are also some labeled pictures and additional resources for further reading. The FactHound internet site provides limited portals to other websites. This text is part of the "Look Inside" series which examine different structures that people build. The other texts about the log cabin, pyramid, and tepee follow a similar format and presentation with equally helpful photographs and illustrations. 2009, Capstone Press, $21.32. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781429622455
ISBN: 1429622458
The Mitten
Retold by Jim Aylesworth
Illustrated by Barbara McClintock
This classic Ukrainian tale has appeared in many countries for hundreds of years. With every variation, the basic premise reappears: too many animals gather inside a container of some sort which causes it to suddenly break open. As in winter versions, keeping warm and dry is the intention of several woodland critters that would not normally be caught near one another in the same field or hedgerow. Specifically in this book, the author begins with the four seasons and a little boy who plays outside in all kinds of weather. After throwing snowballs, going sledding and making snow angels during a very cold winter day, he loses a red mitten that his grandmother knitted with a woolen hat and scarf. "Oh, no!" the boy exclaims. His grandmother assures him they will find it the next day. It was definitely time for a mug of hot cocoa to get him warm and snug again. "You've had enough of the cold for one day." Meanwhile, numerous animals happily discover the lost red mitten. Squirrel is first to make it a safe, dry haven. Next enters a rabbit, then a fox and even a bear. One by one they convince the previous tenants with the same rhyming pleas to allow them to join the growing crowd. After a rumble-tumble to get just the right fit, the animals settle down for a nap. Could a large bear really join them? "The bear squeezed and pushed, and squeezed and pushed, and sque-e-ezed and pushed- until at last . . . he got himself in." They fall asleep toasty and warm at last. Amazingly, a tiny mouse comes along and persuades the incredulous group of his great need. For just a tiny minute, things seem to be working out. . . until "the mitten BURST apart and spilled them all out onto the snow!" Hundreds of red yarn pieces explode all over the snow-covered ground. Each one in turn declares, "What a shame!" as they walk away to locate another safe, toasty place. Of course, the next day the grandmother takes the little boy to easily find his lost red mitten. She again assures him not to worry and that she can easily knit him another one. One of the key features in this version is an important line, "And because she loved him." The classic progression of similar events usually expressed in repetitive phrases makes anticipation of what happens next much easier and predictable. Calmed fears, favorite pastimes, and a steaming mug of hot chocolate (recipe included) bring secure comfort to little ones. It is fascinating to note that the illustrator's own cozy living room appears in the book as well as being set in the Connecticut woods with stone fences from her neighborhood. In addition, the author's vast experience as a first grade teacher and children's author grounds this delightful tale for all fans of this famous read-aloud. Even though it is for very young children, older youngsters can readily enjoy one of the world's most favorite stories. 2009, Scholastic Press, Ages 4 to 8, $16.99. Reviewer: Susan Treadway, M.Ed (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-439-92544-0
ISBN: 0-439-92544-4
Polar Regions
Steve Parker
From one end of the world to another, compare what is the same and what is different about opposite ends of the earth. One thing is certain: it is cold at both poles. The North Pole has no land at all, only miles and miles of ice, surrounded by land. How can anything live there? Most things cannot, and what does live near there is either threatened or endangered. The land closest to the Arctic Ocean is the tundra--a treeless area covered all winter in snow. The plants and animals on the frozen tundra are well-suited for the cold, and some migrate south toward the northern-most forests. The South Pole is land surrounded by ocean. Antarctica is the coldest place on earth and also the windiest. You may remember the scene in March of the Penguins, with the snow and wind at their fiercest! Now you know why. The Southern Ocean, which surrounds Antarctica, is full of nutrients, providing an environment for vast number of marine life, from the tiny krill to the seventy-two foot long fin whale. Besides the colorful images and informative text of these two polar areas, readers learn of human involvement and interaction, from hunting, to mining, to protecting the environment Parker presents a realistic view of these opposite poles. In true "QEB Planet Earth" series form, this follows the attractive and engaging format of a plethora of images, a concise text, and an ability to spark readers' curiosity to explore on their own. This would make a terrific addition to any library. 2008, QEB Publishing, $27.10. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Elizabeth Young (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781595665720
ISBN: 1595665722
Prairie Winter
Bonnie Geisert
All Rachel really wants is to go to school in town with her friends, convince her father to install a telephone in their distant home, and not have to shovel snow and feed cattle during the cold, windy winter months; then comes the winter that will not end. Bad storms constantly require school to close early and stay closed for days. During one storm, the school bus taking Rachel and her sisters home gets stuck in a snow bank, stranding the Johnson girls and two other children at a neighboring farm for several days. With no telephone at the Johnson farm, the only way to let their parents know that they are safe is through a radio news announcement. Their father finally drives two and a half hours on the tractor to come take the girls home. After several weeks of isolation in the country, a small plane lands in the Johnson alfalfa field. The pilot offers to fly the three oldest girls to town, where they can stay in the local hotel and resume classes. Once again, Rachel and her sisters are separated from their family, with no means to communicate. Town living offers many advantages, but before the winter ends, Rachel's homesickness becomes so strong that she even misses feeding cattle in the cold. This is the third novel in a series about Rachel Johnson, a twelve-year old farm girl growing up in South Dakota in the mid-1950s. 2009, Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, Ages 8 to 12, $16.00. Reviewer: Heather N. Kolich (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-618-68588-2
Ready, Set, Snow!
Abby Klein
Illustrated by John McKinley
Freddy Thresher is a first grade student with a gigantic problem. He is participating in the snowshoe race competition between Mrs. Wushy's class and Mrs. Brown's class in the mini Winter Olympics but he has never used snowshoes before in his life. Not only that, Freddy takes on a bet with Max, the classroom bully, who is also in the snowshoe race. If Freddy loses the race, Max will get all of Freddy's desserts for a week. Robbie and Jessie, Freddy's friends, help him to practice and train for the snowshoe event. Will he be ready for the race in just three days? Those readers acquainted with the funny adventures of Freddy from the "Ready, Freddy" series will find out how Freddy handles this predicament. Readers may enjoy the additional activities in the book. In each picture, the illustrator hides the word "fin" for readers to locate. After the story, there is section called Freddy's Fun Pages that includes shark information and activities. 2009, The Blue Sky Press/Scholastic, $5.99. Ages 6 to 7. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-439-89596-5
ISBN: 0-439-89596-0
Scoop that Snow!
David Shannon, Loren Long and David Gordon
Trucks that talk and personalities will appeal to some young children, especially boys. These characters from Trucktown, Payloader Pete and Dump Truck Dan are brothers. They wake up one morning and see a huge pile of snow. Well, they know what to do. Pete loads it all into Dump Truck Dan. What fun they have as the snow pile is down to nothing in no time at all. What do these two crazy trucks decide to do? Dump it all out and do it all over again. Sound familiar—young kids will have no problem relating to this story. The added attraction is the sparkly snow on the cover and on the last page. 2009, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 6 mo. to 2, $7.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 978-1-4169-4182-8
Shaun White: Snow and Skateboard Champion
Marty Gitlin
Marty Gitlin writes the biography of Shaun White, a phenomenal, young athlete that has taken the extreme sports world by storm. White is best known for his snowboarding gold medal in the 2006 Winter Olympics. In this biography, Marty Gitlin shows the sacrifices the White family made for Shaun and how these sacrifices paid off in the end. The White family was far from wealthy, and while the other kids who were competing in the snowboarding competitions stayed at the fancy resorts where the competitions were held, White and his family lived out of their van "Big Mo." When he won his first snowboarding competition in 1993 at the age of seven, Gitlin states, "It quickly became obvious that Shaun was a natural." Amazingly, White's talent does not stop at snowboarding; he is also a professional skateboarder. Rarely are people talented to that extent in both sports, even though there are some striking similarities between the two sports. Since 2003, he has been competing in the X-Games in both snowboarding and skateboarding, usually winning in both events. Marty Gitlin provides a look into White's professional and personal life, and young readers will be intrigued by this young sports phenomenon. 2009, Enslow Publishers, $23.93. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Shelly Shaffer (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780766036277
ISBN: 0766036278
Snowbound Mystery
Adapted by Jeff Limke
Illustrated by Mark Bloodworth
School is closed for a week due to the need for repairs, so the four Alden children decide to spend the time in a hunters' cabin on Oak Hill. Grandfather drops them off nearby; after getting settled, the young people walk to Nelson's Store for supplies. The Nelson's son hints at a mystery in the cabin. That night, the Aldens hear strange scratching noises in the attic. The next day, an unexpected storm blows in and the Aldens are snowbound. The Nelsons arrive to help them; later, Grandfather arranges a rescue. In the meantime, the Aldens and the Nelsons discover some recipe cards that had been hidden in the cabin by Mr. Nelson's father. Finally, the storekeeper comes to know the secret ingredient in his family's famous bread. The thirty-two page book is divided into ten chapters. The graphic novel format does nothing to enhance the story. The comic-book style illustrations are stilted and static, as is the dialogue in the conversation balloons. Much of the plot is explained in text boxes. The colors are dark and murky and the characters' faces all look alike and convey little expression. This is not a very appealing choice for beginning readers. Part of "The Boxcar Children" series, this work was adapted from the novel of the same name which was first published in 1968. 2009, Albert Whitman & Company, Ages 6 to 8, $6.99. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer
ISBN: 978-0-8075-7515-4
The Snow Day
Komako Sakai
A young anthropomorphic rabbit tells of the day that the school bus is stuck in the snow and kindergarten is closed. Mommy says no going out until the snow stops, but our excited bunny sneaks out on the balcony to make snow dumplings. The snow continues through the day. There is no going to the grocery store. Even Daddy's flight home is cancelled. The world is cold and quiet as the snow falls. When our rabbit is brushing his (or her) teeth, the snow finally stops. Although it is bedtime, Mommy gives in to the pleas and they go outside, "just for a little while." There is time to make footprints, snowballs, even snow monsters, in the magical world of the snow. And there will be more time for it all tomorrow, along with the promise of Daddy coming home. Sakai's framed, textured illustrations have the qualities of a tone poem. The end pages are gray over a white background with small white round shapes; this pattern is picked up in the city scenes representing the falling snow and expressing soft silence. We watch the snow with the mother and child and enjoy the fresh whiteness. Little or no text is needed to tell the simple story. 2009 (orig. 2005), Arthur A. Levine Books/Scholastic Inc, $16.99. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-545013215
ISBN: 978-0-545013222
ISBN: 0545013216
ISBN: 0545013224
Snowflakes
Martha E.H. Rustad
Consulting editor, Gail Saunders-Smith
This is a reference book from the "All About Winter" set. The set contains four books, Animals in Winter, Christmas, People in Winter and Snowflakes, a book with big, beautiful photos and scientific text. In the first chapter, "What Are Snowflakes?," we learn that snowflakes are small pieces of frozen water. A photograph of a magnified snowflake is included. In the second chapter, "When It Snows," we learn about the consistency of snowflakes in various temperatures. In the third chapter, "In the Snow," we learn about the responsibilities that come along with snow as well as the activities we can have in the snow. In chapter four, "Melting," a photograph of a flower blooming from the snow signifies the arrival of spring. The text does not shy from scientific words such as blizzards, clouds, temperatures and spring and offers teachers a good resource when presenting a unit about weather. The series, "All About Winter," was designed to help below-level readers access text. There are references to more books to read about winter weather as well as an Internet site related to the book, www.facthound.com. There is a table of contents, glossary, bibliography and index. 2008, Capstone Publishers, $21.27. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Amy Orr (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781429622028
ISBN: 1429622024
Snowy Sports: Ready, Set, Play!
Per-Henrik Gurth
The theme of the book is winter sports, and there are illustrations of various cartoon animals ice skating, speed skating, and playing hockey and other sports. Insets on every other page picture sports equipment and their names (e.g., skates, jackets, ski poles). There are no characters, story, plot, rhymes, or pop-ups. The purpose of this book is apparently to introduce young children to winter sports by providing them with only the basic details: the name of the sport, a few words describing what one does in the sport, and what it might look like if it were played by cartoon animals. It is worth mentioning that the illustrator, Per-Henrik Gurth, is credited for the book, since it consists mainly of illustrations. The illustrations are bold and colorful; however, they were created with Adobe Illustrator and there is no gradation in color so, to a young child, each page is likely to look just like the last. For the same reason, it may be difficult for a young child to focus on any one object on a single page. Given the minimal text and reliance on pictures, this book may have worked better in a board book format. 2009, Kids Can Press, Ages 3 to 7, $14.95. Reviewer: Leona Illig (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-55337-367-4
The Story of Snow
Mark Cassino with Jon Nelson, Ph.D.
From the birth of a snow crystal within cold clouds, to the complete formation and then the fall from the sky, this book breaks down the scientific nature of snowflakes in a way that is easy to comprehend. Although this book is geared toward older children, it could be gracefully shared with younger readers as well; each mini-point regarding snow is led with a basic sentence, then goes into more detail in smaller text. Therefore, parents sharing this title with youngsters could smoothly read only the leading sentences and still captivate their attention. Many enlarged photos throughout show detailed close-ups of individual crystals, showing snow in all of its intricate glory. Useful drawings and insets also provide examples and explanations of how snow crystals form, as well as how their diverse shapes form. The author's appreciation of snow is evident, and there's even a special section about "How to Catch Your Own Snow Crystals." Reviewer: Cherie Ilg Haas (Children's Literature). 2009, Chronicle Books, Ages 8 to 11, $16.99.
ISBN: 978-0-8118-6866-2
Survival in the snow
Ginger Wadsworth
Illustrations by Craig Orback
Moses Schallenberger was 17 years old when he set off for California with his sister and her husband. Their wagon train was the first to cross the Sierra Nevada range, and like the fated Donner party who made the attempt two years later, the party got caught in early winter storms. In an attempt to reach Sutter's Fort before heavy snow trapped them in the mountains, the party abandoned their possessions and advanced on horseback. Moses and two young men stayed behind to guard their things, with the understanding that help would return for them as soon as possible. According to an author's note, Moses's story is based on his own recollections of the event as related to his daughter many years afterward. Orback's illustrations capture the rugged landscape; although the human figures at times appear static or posed. Moses's struggle to survive on his own in the harsh environment of one of the "snowiest places in the world" will engage new readers, in spite of the sometimes uneven writing. The story complements a unit on the Western Migration, giving students a glimpse of the personal side of this important historical event. 2009, Millbrook Press/Lerner Publishing Group, $25.26. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Heather Christensen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780822578925
ISBN: 0822578921
Trudy
Henry Cole
Cats. Dogs. Birds. These are the kinds of pets we usually think about kids having. But Esme is not shopping for her pet at a traditional pet store. She is at the county auction and it is here that her grandfather has told her she may select an animal to bring home. A cow will not do, nor will a rooster. Not a pig, a duck, a guinea hen, or a pigeon. Then Esme sees a sign about an animal named "Trudy" who is "free to good home." It turns out that Trudy is not only free, she is perfect. Esme is delighted to take the brown and white goat home with her. The pair develop a close relationship, and Trudy becomes a confidante for the girl. Here, the story takes an unusual turn. It seems Trudy is what Esme's mother calls a "weather forecaster." Although she usually likes to go outside with Esme, when snow is coming, she stays inside her pen. Neighbors and news reporters alike come to see the unexpectedly prescient goat. Then Trudy predicts wrong. She stays inside and no snow falls. What is wrong with Trudy? Cole's tale is a gentle, simple account of childhood in years past. Children will be pleased by the happy ending with its surprise twist. 2009, Greenwillow/HarperCollins, $17.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780061542671
ISBN: 9780061542688
ISBN: 0061542679
ISBN: 0061542687
Tundras : frosty, treeless lands
Laura Purdie Salas
Illustrated by Jeff Yesh
The introduction describes the tundra ecosystem as flat, open land with moss, rocks, and snowy patches swept by cold, howling winds. Arctic tundra is found near the north pole and alpine tundra exists on mountainsides. Further information about the Arctic tundra describes soil patterns and plants and shows animals that live there year round or migrate seasonally. Alpine tundra can be warmer than Arctic tundra. It supports different groupings of plants and animals. People in Norway and Sweden herd reindeer on the tundra there. Skiing and snow sports take place on other tundra locations. The value of tundra is emphasized and a warning about protecting it is given. A "Fun Fact" appears on each double-page spread. Although each is interesting, none are "fun." The pages are covered with watercolor paintings that extend the text. Includes a "Table of Contents," directions for making a tundra diorama, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Appropriate for young researchers. Part of the "Amazing Science: Ecosystems" series. 2009, Picture Window Books, $25.32. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781404853768
ISBN: 1404853766
Under the Snow
Melissa Stewart
Illustrations by Constance R. Bergum
"You spend your days sledding and skating and having snowball fights. But under the snow lies a hidden world." So begins an exciting exploration of life beneath the fields, forests, ponds, and wetlands when snow and ice blanket the world. Readers will be amazed at the fascinating things that go on under the snow. Ladybugs pack themselves tightly in a gap in a stone wall, chipmunk naps and snacks on stored nuts and seeds, salamander sleeps soundly through the coldest months, a carp rest quietly on the mud at the bottom of the pond and, just under the ice red-spotted newts dart about. It will surprise readers to learn that a wood frog buried under forest leaves can freeze solid and still survive. As the year moves slowly toward spring and the days grow longer the animals emerge from their winter dwellings to face another season. Breathtaking watercolors are the highlight of the handsomely conceived and executed book. Some pages feature panels depicting different animals in the same habitat while the juxtaposition of above and below ground illustrations allow readers to view both worlds simultaneously. The soft palette of grays and blues of the winter world above contrast with the browns, oranges and greens of the world below. Snowflakes on the endpapers and the twilight view of a quiet pastoral village on the title page build anticipation for beauty and simplicity to follow. For a classroom study of animal survival in winter or just as a family share this is an excellent introduction. 2009, Peachtree, Ages 6 to 9, $16.95
Reviewer: Beverley Fahey (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-56145-493-8
ISBM: 1-56145-493-1
Waiting for Winter
Sebastian Meschenmoser
A squirrel, a hedgehog, and a bear who have never before seen winter eagerly await their first snowfall in this quiet, beautiful series of drawings by German artist Sebastian Meschenmoser. Waiting is dull and difficult, and each animal is mistaken in what he thinks winter will bring. Knowing only that snow is "white and wet and cold and soft," Hedgehog thinks he has found snow when he comes upon an abandoned toothbrush; Squirrel, when he finds an old can filled with water; Bear, when he finds one smelly sock, but of course, snow turns out to be more wonderful than any of them could have imagined. The story is told primarily in Meschenmoser's soft, scribbly drawings, in a subdued palette of black, white, gray, and brown, with each illustration contributing important details to the unfolding anticipation. Be sure to continue on to the endpapers for the amusing conclusion of this charming winter vigil. 2009, Kane Miller, $15.99. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Claudia Mills, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Winter is about to arrive. Squirrel is waiting to see snow for the first time. Although he usually stays inside during the cold months, this year he is determined to see snow firsthand. He is intrigued by Deer's lovely description of snow as being "wet and cold and soft." Squirrel waits. And waits. He concludes that because waiting for snow is quite boring, he must keep himself awake so that he does not miss the arrival of the first snowfall. He begins to exercise. Hedgehog thinks that he would also like to see snow, but exercise is not for him. So they begin to sing. In the midst of the music, Bear lumbers out into the cold, curious about the bedlam disturbing the quietness of winter. He, too, decides that he shall wait for the snow. The animals move about the forest, picking up a toothbrush, a tin can and a smelly sock. Each of these things fits Deer's description of snow as being "wet and cold and soft"! Squirrel, Hedgehog and Bear argue about who has actually found the first flake. Abruptly, a snowflake lands on Bear's nose. Eyes wide, the animals realize the magnitude of what has occurred. Flake after flake falls on this cold winter's night. The animals embrace the beauty of winter and the gentleness of a fresh snowfall. The book's illustrations are remarkable and brilliant; the wordless pages will prove to be a favorite amongst readers. A must-have for any child's library. 2009 (orig. 2007), Kane Miller/EDC, $15.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Summer Whiting (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781935279044
ISBN: 1935279041
Snow Features from Other Years:
Winter 2007-2008
Winter 2006-2007
Winter 2003-2004
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