NonFiction Monday: The Story of Snow (by Mark Cassino & Jon Nelson)

We are in the month of January, the middle of winter.  We had our first little bit of snow last week, so this NonFiction Monday selection is the perfect tie in for many teachers and parents around the country. 

The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder (by Mark Cassino with Jon Nelson):

Part narrative, part science lesson Cassino and Nelson reveal the secret life of a snow flake.  I say “secret” because it is largely microscopic.  The story commences on “a winter day, high up in the sky, in a cloud that is very, very cold.”  Interestingly, snow begins with a speck—but not of water.  These specks are much smaller than the eye can see.  They are common things like sea salt, plant pollen, volcanic soot, and, even, leave bacteria that float high in the sky from the winds below.  This speck becomes the center of the snow crystal.  Drawings help depict the process the flake goes through until it is fully “born.”  The authors’ provide close up pictures of snowflakes to illustrate their text on the types (stars, plates, or columns) and variations (twins, rimes, and clumps).  The book concludes with instructions and tips for catching and observing snowflakes. 

Evaluation:

The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder is a fascinating read!  A vast majority of the information in the book was new to me.  Cassino and Nelson do well to explain the concepts in a way that is relatable to people of all ages.  The close up shots of the various glittery and graceful snowflakes are spectacular.  Best of all, the book encourages children’s own scientific exploration of nature and the world around them.  I recommend this book for ages 7 and up. 

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