Antarctica is one of the most extreme environments on Earth—the coldest, windiest, driest place on the planet. This frozen continent affects weather, ocean currents, and sea levels all over the Earth. From award-winning, experienced nature writer Mary Batten comes a remarkable nonfiction picture book that plumbs the mysteries of this hostile environment. With clear, engaging language, Batten explores fascinating questions that scientists the world over have been researching, such as how a wide variety of wildlife can survive in this frigid environment and how Antarctica might be the key to long-standing questions about the Earth and climate change. New York Times bestselling illustrator Thomas Gonzalez brings Batten's text to life with detailed, realistic paintings. An ideal resource for young science lovers and educators, this informative volume is perfect for classroom units on climate change, conservation, ecology, oceanography, and more. Gr 3-5-This informative introduction to earth science details how animals live and thrive in Antarctica. Batten presents many fascinating examples of how penguins, seals, and icefish adapt to this challenging climate. Their survival depends on the availability of krill, small shrimplike crustaceans that are a source of food. Krill are uniquely adapted to survive in Antarctica because they can shrink themselves and go without food for long periods of time. Whales, too, have traits that assist their survival. These warm-blooded mammals migrate to other places during the coldest seasons. They have a layer of blubber under their skin that keeps them warm, and they can regulate their body temperature. The text also discusses the consequences of climate change. Topics include how scientists collect ice cores to learn about changing conditions, scientific research under the water, the impact of melting ice on animals, and the melting of ice shelves that surround Antarctica. The text makes a compelling case for understanding and caring about Antarctica. Gonzalez's illustrations provide an intriguing depiction of the setting. VERDICT A superb choice for students who are studying animal adaptation and how climate change impacts Antarctica. The well-researched text and captivating illustrations work well to convey the importance of conservation.-Myra Zarnowski, City Univ. of New Yorkα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. "Thomas Gonzalez's watercolor illustrations are lively and precise, helping to make this an enchanting, educational introduction to Antarctica's biodiversity." —Foreword Reviews "Descriptions are clear, concise, and interesting. . . [Batten's] text is relatively substantial for a picture book, and it's set against a backdrop of gorgeous Antarctic scenes created by Gonzalez.. . . the scenery is magnificent. . . . Sobering news in a handsome package." —Kirkus Reviews ★ "Informative. . . fascinating. . . The text makes a compelling case for understanding and caring about Antarctica. Gonzalez's illustrations provide an intriguing depiction of the setting. . . . A superb choice for students who are studying animal adaptation and how climate change impacts Antarctica. The well-researched text and captivating illustrations work well to convey the importance of conservation." —School Library Journal , Starred Review "Beautifully illustrated. . . Batten presents well-researched and clearly written text that includes enough detail to engage readers without overwhelming them. . . . Gonzalez's double-page pictures present vivid scenes of windswept ice, dramatic skies, and seas teeming with life. This inviting volume provides a lively introduction to Antarctica and its unique ecosystem." —Booklist Mary Batten is an award-winning writer for television, film, and publishing. Her many writing projects have taken her into tropical rainforests, astronomical observatories, scientific laboratories, and medical research centers. She is the author of numerous articles on science topics as well as a number of children's books. Batten was nominated for an Emmy for her work on the Children's Television Workshop's science series 3-2-1-CONTACT. In the 1990s she worked with The Cousteau Society, where she acquired a lifelong love of the ocean. She lives in Virginia. Thomas Gonzalez is an illustrator, designer, and portrait artist. A native of Cuba, he came to the United States when he was ten years old. He studied at the Atlanta School of Art (now called Savannah of Art and Design). After working at the Coca-Cola Company for more than twenty years, Tom held several creative positions with other global brands. He has illustrated many picture books, including the New York Times best-seller 14 Cows for America. He lives in Georgia.