Snow Birds

Synopsis:

“Discover birds who survive winter against all odds in this poetic, gorgeously illustrated picture book
 
Snowflakes whirling, snow-flocks swirling, streaks of white twirl through the night…

You’ve heard of birds who migrate to warmer climates in the wintertime—but what about those who persevere through snowy weather and freezing temperatures? With elegant verse and striking illustrations, Snow Birds salutes the brave and resourceful birds who adapt to survive the coldest months.”

Review:

I love introducing young kids to different genres, formats, and styles of writing. This is one of those books that works so well. Combining beautiful illustrations with accessible poetry that young kids will grasp, this book is beautiful from front to back. I think so many adults have a true aversion to poetry because they remember having to memorize a poem for school or trying to dissect a poem and not being able to understand the deeper meaning and symbolism. I’m right there with you. But, I’ve come to appreciate poetry through kids’ books – picture books and novels in verse.

Children’s picture books are a fun way to introduce all kinds of poetry to kids. What I love about Kirsten’s work is that it is very in tune with your senses with lots of words describing sights and sounds and smells. In addition, she uses a lot of movement words, even the way the poems are displayed on each spread is very interesting.

Not only does this book introduce kids to poetry, but also to nonfiction text as well. With very real birds described in each poem, adults and kids can learn about birds they may even see in their own backyards. Plus this book also includes back matter (I’m a sucker for back matter). The back matter often includes an author’s notes or more information for the reader. This book provides the reader with more information about each bird mentioned in the text.

This is also one of those great books that you don’t have to read cover-to-cover. Pick a page at random, read a few poems, pick your favorite bird, whatever you want to read! And if you want to continue learning even beyond the story, check out the activity kit available from Abrams’ website.

Need to Know:

Title: Snow Birds
Author: Kirsten Hall
Illustrator: Jenni Desmond
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: November 3, 2020
Page Number: 40 pgs.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.