Synergy: Tham Luang Cave Rescue

In the summer of 2018, twelve members of a boy’s soccer team and their assistant coach were trapped in a cave by flooding waters. Although the team survived, two divers died during the rescue.

Read the recently published nonfiction books for youth, then learn more at the websites:

ALL THIRTEEN: THE INCREDIBLE CAVE RESCUE OF THE THAI BOYS’ SOCCER TEAM by Christina Soontornvat is an award winning work of nonfiction that shares the rescue story through an engrossing narrative and fascinating photos. Each short chapter immerses readers in a different aspect of the event from the coach and his players to the cave divers.

RISING WATER: THE STORY OF THE THAI CAVE RESCUE by Marc Aronson tells the amazing story of survival through a well-researched narrative and compelling photographs.

THAM LUANG CAVE RESCUE is a documentary video tracing how the 17 day rescue unfolded. It includes compelling video from the rescue along with interviews with those involved.

To watch the view, go to https://youtu.be/x_kiX0uUDNI.

STEP INSIDE THE THAI CAVE IN AUGMENTED REALITY from The New York Times allows readers to experience what rescuers faced when trying to save the boys and their coach. Combining short texts, maps, and diagrams, readers are taken step-by-step through the cave rescue.

To explore the interactive, go to https://nyti.ms/39qAjn3.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick and Atheneum.

Book Review: Wolf in the Snow

WOLF IN THE SNOW by Matthew Cordell is a memorable nearly wordless picture book set in a snowstorm.

When a young girl gets lost in a snowstorm on the way home from school, she rescues a wolf cub. But who will rescue her?

Cordell’s simple illustrations effectively convey the solitude of wilderness life, the quest for survival, and universal compassion among all creatures.

Librarians are always on the lookout for wordless books to stimulate the imagination of their elementary students. This book provides endless opportunities for children to discuss animals, trust, and humanity.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to http://matthewcordell.com/.

Published by Feiwel & Friends, an imprint of Macmillan on January 3, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Series Review: Mission Rescue

The MISSION RESCUE series from National Geographic is intended to inspire young people to learn about endangered animals and how they can be saved.

MISSION SHARK RESCUE begins by exploring the threats facing sharks. Then, each chapter explores some aspect of sharks including their role as predators, their habitat, life cycle, physical characteristics, and connection with humans. Stories, facts, photos, and rescue activities and challenges are woven through the book to keep readers engaged.

MISSION PANDA RESCUE examines the reasons why pandas are endangered. The six chapters explore the panda’s habitat, characteristics, families, and relationship with people. The many photographs and other visuals bring these animals to life. Interesting stories, interviews, facts, and activities help generate reader interest in saving these adorable creatures.

The series also includes titles focusing on lions, wolves, polar bears, elephants, tigers, and sea turtles.

Librarians will find that this series appeals to animals lovers as well as children who enjoy nature, the environment, and social change. Students who enjoy biographies will like the many one-page interviews woven through the books. The focus on photographs, infographics, and small blocks of text will be of interest to nonfiction fans.

Published by National Geographic Children’s Books on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Tale of Rescue

THE TALE OF RESCUE by Michael J. Rosen tells the fictional adventure of a dog that comes to the aid of a family during a blizzard.

When a young boy and his parents are lost in a snow storm, a cattle dog comes to their rescue. Unable to convince his master of the emergency, the cattle dog manages to create an ingenious way to save the frightened family.

Rosen’s rich storytelling skills make the tale come to life. Middle grade readers will feel like they’re reading a true story. What makes the novel particularly compelling is the use of the epilogue to extend the experience.

The beautiful watercolor illustrations add to the appeal of the story.

Authentic, well-written animal stories are always in demand, so librarians will find a large audience among animal lovers. The short length combined with the engaging epilogue will be popular among reluctant readers.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.fidosopher.com/

Published by Candlewick Press on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.

Book Review: Kangaroo to the Rescue!

KANGAROO TO THE RESCUE! by Moira Rose Donahue is the latest in the AMAZING ANIMAL HEROES CHAPTERS series from National Geographic Kids.

The book features three true stories featuring animals. First, Lulu the Kangaroo saves her human friend after an accident. Next, when Maggie the dog goes blind, her dog companion Pilot becomes her guide dog. Finally, three pigs named Dasiey, Lulu and Buttercup come to the rescue.

Each story includes three, short, fast-paced chapters. Appealing photographs of the real animals from the stories add to the drama. “Did You Know” fact boxes and full-page, spotlights on key topics help readers understand the context of the story. In addition, pronunciation is provided for difficult vocabulary.

Informational reading experiences are an important element of the Common Core. The CHAPTERS series is an effective way to address nonfiction reading needs.

The animal stories will appeal to both boys and girls. Beyond animal rescues, librarians will find many other “More True Stories” topics in the CHAPTERS series to keep children interested in reading.

For more National Geographic resources for kids, go to http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/.