Reviewed by CBC Reviewer
N/A
The polar bear has become the poster child for climate change, featured in documentaries and even advertisements for devices that have smaller carbon footprints. This book helps students understand how this top predator's life cycle is dependent upon polar ice, linking climate, habitat, and survival.
The book describes research in Canada, focusing on malnutrition and other problems encountered by the species. The book's description of the predatory skills of the polar bear—"a seal–killing machine"—is far above average for middle level books. The narrative includes information on the researcher's methods, the bear's adaptations and habitat, and the changes they encounter from a warming planet. The effective integration of the content and methods of science earned this attractive middle level book a ranking as an NSTA/CBC Outstanding Trade Book. With a strong glossary, bibliography, and index it is ideal for individual reading.
Review posted on 2/15/2012
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