  | When the sun shines on Antarctica : and other poems about the frozen continent Author: Latham, Irene | |
| Price: $6.50 | ||
Summary:
Experience summer at the bottom of the world in Antarctica.
| Illustrator: | Wadham, Anna |
| Reading Counts Information: Interest Level: 3-5 Reading Level: 11.80 Points: 3.0 Quiz: 69143 | ||
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (11/15/15)
School Library Journal (01/01/16)
Booklist (01/01/16)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 01/01/2016 The creators of Dear Wandering Wildebeest: And Other Poems from the Water Hole (2014) here offer poetry and art focused on the Antarctic summer. The 15 poems spotlight animals (whales, penguins, seals, krill, midges, and petrels), plants (hair grass, red algae, and moss), and natural features (brinicles and icebergs). Most poems are presented on double-page spreads that also include full color art and a scientific sidebar. For example, Latham compares the freezing power of brinicles to a magic wand that casts “an icy spell / on the sea / floor, / entombing / all it touches.” Wadham’s art depicts a briny icicle flash freezing every life form it encounters, while the explanatory note further clarifies how these features work. Similar in approach to Joyce Sidman and Rick Allen’s books (Winter Bees and Other Poems of the Cold, 2014), this pairs nicely with Judy Sierra’s penguin-themed Antarctic Antics (1998) and will be welcomed by classrooms combining poetry and science. - Copyright 2016 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 01/01/2016 Gr 3–6—In this collection of poetry about a wide variety of Antarctic flora and fauna, Latham does a compelling job of presenting facts alongside verse. While the poetry varies, the tidbits are enlightening and likely to spark discussion among readers. Latham is knowledgeable and mindful about introducing young readers to lesser-known concepts and creatures. "Southern Giant Petrel at the Seashore" is as funny as it is interesting, and children will be encouraged to learn more about this bird. Other attempts are less compellingly written and don't read as fluidly. Through stunning, evocative artwork, Wadham brings the hues of the Antarctic to life. Although the animals are not depicted in an anatomically precise fashion, they nonetheless are enjoyable and help enhance the text. VERDICT A delightful assortment of verse that is enhanced by stimulating information and charming illustrations.—Ellen Norton, Naperville Public Library, Naperville, IL - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
