I certainly hope that there will be many more to come! Kate Messner's text encourages young readers to appreciate the beauty of the winter woods, and to look more closely at the world around them. The snow-bound world seems still and quiet to the girl, but in reality, there is a wealth of activity taking place, just beneath her feet.A simple but informative text (augmented by an excellent afterword that discusses the animals mentioned) is paired with breathtakingly beautiful artwork in Over and Under the Snow, making for a book that is both entertaining and educational! Christopher Silas Neal's mixed-media illustrations are simply enchanting - I was reminded of Julie Flett's work, in Lii Yiiboo Nayaapiwak lii Swer: L'alfabet di Michif / Owls See Clearly at Night: A Michif Alphabet, which is a high compliment indeed - and I came away very impressed that this was his first book.
This title will be enjoyed by children, teachers, and parents.Ī young girl enjoys a night-time skiing trip with her father in this gorgeous picture-book, while underneath the snow, in the subnivean zone, a host of wildlife is occupied with their own concerns, from sleeping to foraging for food.
The story on its own beautifully meshes with FCPS's kindergarten and first grade science program of studies, and Messner's backmatter, including notes on each of the featured animals and further reading, is icing on the cake. The muted palette of Christopher Silas Neal's somewhat retro illustrations adds to the peaceful and rhythmic text. From the shrew and the vole making their way through tunnels, to the queen bumblebee and the bear drowsing in their underground spots, children learn how populated the seemingly quiet winter woods are.
When the father tells his daughter of the "secret kingdom" under the snow, the reader is presented not only with the goings-on above the snow, but with pictures and text that show how other animals adapt to the winter season. As the narrator and her father ski slowly through the woods, they see evidence of animals above the snow. Lyrical and informative text combines with serene and evocative illustrations for a compelling package.
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