Whale Snow

There have been many books, including children's books,written about Arctic Alaska and the Inupiat who have lived there for thousands of years, and thrived in the harsh environment. But most of the authors have been outsiders.Now here is a children's book about subsistence whaling written by residents of a primarily Inupiat Eskimo community in Arctic Alaska. It features a young boy Amiqqaq who learns about the "fat snow" or "whale snow" which comes in spring when a whale has given itself to the people, to help nourish and sustain them. He also learns about whaling and the spirit of the whale.The book is well written by Debby Dahl Edwardson,and beautifully and sensitively illustrated by Annie Patterson. Reflecting the title of "Whale Snow," Patterson has managed to include big fat snow flakes in every illustration, even those showing the interior of a house. Both Edwardson and Patterson live in Barrow, Alaska, the farthest north community in the United States. And this local perspective helps develop the story and illustrations to a very high level.It is a great book to read to your children some chilly evening. In addition to the story, Edwardson has included background on subsistence whaling and a list of "Words to Know" in the Inupiaq language. So readers young and old can be informed at the same time they are fascinated with the story and art work.Enjoy the book!Earl