In the Snow: Who's Been Here?

From School Library Journal PreSchool-Grade 2-A child's crudely drawn map on the jacket flap shows the snow-covered trail that young William, Cammy, and their dog follow to the sledding hill. Along the way, the children find signs of animal life (tracks, scattered seeds, a nest, gnawed branches, castings, tunnels, etc.), and wonder "Who's been here?" (Perhaps the happiest finds of all are the doughnuts and hot chocolate left at the end of the trail.) Readers will discover the answers in gloriously detailed, realistic paintings of a ruffed grouse, cardinal, squirrel, porcupine, deer, and other woodland and meadow creatures. The almost tactile illustrations are large and stunning. Children will be interested in the significance of these snowy clues; some may be inspired to look more closely on their own forays into winter landscapes. This companion to In the Woods (Greenwillow, 1994) will work as well with groups as one-on-one.