From the Publisher
"[I]nterviews and accompanying photographs set the book apart and bring the story to life. The writing is easy to understand and never boring. . . . An excellent purchase for STEM collections."—starred, School Library Journal
School Library Journal
★ 12/01/2017
Gr 3–6—In 2013, snowy owls made an unusual trip south, but that detour is only part of the story acclaimed science writer Markle shares in her latest book. Markle starts with background information, revealing why so many snowy owls traveled south, and then explains how scientists quickly capitalized on the circumstances to tag the birds and follow their migration routes. The story gains momentum as Markle details the importance of the food chain and provides insight from scientists working with the owls. These interviews and accompanying photographs set the book apart and bring the story to life. The writing is easy to understand and never boring. The main narrative is laid out in full-color spreads, accompanied by photographs (some stock, some provided by the scientists) and maps. Full-page sidebars are differentiated from the main text by changes in backgrounds and typefaces. The distinctions are subtle but make the reading experience flow that much more easily. Similarly, definitions are addressed naturally within the text, providing no interruptions. Markle's author's note ends the tale and is also a good read. She explains how she tracked down sources and why it was important to talk to the scientists. It's a terrific note that encourages both budding naturalists and science writers of all ages. VERDICT An excellent purchase for STEM collections.—Marie Drucker, Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library, NY
Kirkus Reviews
★ 2017-10-30
In the winter of 2013-2014, when snowy owls from the Arctic began appearing far south of their usual winter homes, scientists took advantage of a rare research opportunity. An unusually large irruption of snowy owls, seen in huge numbers in eastern Canada, New England, and the mid-Atlantic coast and as far south as Florida, spurred observers to develop new techniques to track and learn more about this Arctic species. One likely hypothesis for their sudden migration into unlikely areas is a population explosion caused by the unusually high lemming numbers the previous summer, which provided more food for hatchlings. Another points to strong southeasterly winds blowing them off course. Using leg bands and small GPS transmitters, scientists followed the movements of specific birds, discovering new facts about a bird not previously well-studied. Markle introduces the birds, the lemmings, and the science in lively, clear prose organized into chapters profusely illustrated with well-captioned photographs. With long experience in explaining the natural world to young readers, she deftly chooses information that will be of particular interest and provides the necessary background. Separate sections explain lemming population booms, differences between male and female owls, tundra, and owl feeding habits. A map shows the travels of several birds, including a "star reporter" named Baltimore. Appealing design adds further value to this dramatic demonstration of science in progress. (author's note, sources, glossary, resources, index, photo credits) (Nonfiction. 8-12)
