Book Review: Snowflake Bentley by Jaqueline Briggs Martin and Mary Azarian
The Caldecott is rarely awarded to nonfiction picture books, let alone a science-based non-fiction book. However, in 1999, the much sought-after honor went to Snowflake Bentley — the true story of Wilson Bentley, a scientist and photographer who studied snowflake formation.
Now I know what you’re thinking — a science-based biography sounds less than ideal for cosy bedtime reading with your 6-year-old…but trust me, this is one book you don’t want to skip. Snowflake Bentley lends itself well to shared reading. The story itself is told in simple, lyrical language, while margins on each page add features about the titular character — details which can be read easily by an adult. The award-winning woodcuts of this book are the work of woodcut artist Mary Azarian, and add greatly to the old world charm of this enchanting book.
The story follows a young boy who has a particular interest in snow which deepens into fascination and ultimately becomes a life’s work. Willie Bentley, was a Vermont-based farmer, who at a young age desired to capture the unique beauty of snowflakes. Unfazed by the taunts of fellow villagers in Vermont who would not see the magic of what lay beneath their feet day in and day out, Wilson Bentley — or as he came to be known — ‘The Snowflake Man,’ studied snowflakes with the help of a camera attached to a microscope. In his lifetime, he photographed over 5000 snowflakes, and his discoveries uncovered some lovely truths which, even today, form the basis of our knowledge of ice crystals.
This inspiring story of a natural inquiry into snowflakes is an excellent way to introduce scientific thinking to young children. Parents and teachers can draw attention to the persistence of a tenacious mind — in particular the way scientists observe, record and carry out experiments. Rudimentary concepts related to photomicrography such as lens openings and shutter speeds can be discussed with older readers. More than ever, the joy of scientific discovery, the carving of new ideas and the relentless search for the truth is the most beautiful message of this book.
