The Snowflake : A Water Cycle Story

I teach first grade and used this book when teaching my students about the water cycle. They loved the repetitive nature and the way the snowflake cycled through the year. I loved the accurate scientific information and the interesting presentation. It allowed us to really understand how water "cycles" through our world, and to investigate different aspects of the water cycle, such as water treatment. My students favorite part was the end where Waldman explains that the water they drink might have been used by Lincoln or even a Tyrannosaurus rex. That really got their imaginations going and helped to engage them in this topic.

My second grade English class loved it!

I really liked the concept of following a snowflake (turned droplet) around the water cycle. However - I found the reading a bit dry. The story is presented as a month by month snippet , i.e. January, then February, and so forth. I felt like the story could have been spruced up a bit - maybe by giving the snowflake a bit more of a "persona" to make it fun for young readers. I also thought it could have gone into more of an explanation about what was happening, rather than just saying "it evaporated." I don't think my kids will be requesting to hear this one again and again. Incidentally, I am a very science-y person and it would not have taken much to interest me about the water cycle... so in sum: Nice concept. Boring reading.

Book arrived a little later than I needed it but I was aware that it could. Cute story. It arrived undamaged even though the cardboard packaging got soaked because it was left on my doorstep with no plastic bag to protect it and the outside covering was soaked. The pages had some dampness but no permanent damage was done.

Such a nice story. About a 1st to 4rd grade reader however little ones will enjoy though their attention span may wander.

Wonderful read aloud for classroom use!

so sweet! my son loves this book

My Grandkids live in MA and Canada. This year especially I thought it would be nice for them to know where all that snow came from!

Excellent!!! Great way to explain the water cycle. Had wonderful discussions with my kindergarten class after we read it!

At the right level for grades 1&2. We usually teach the water cycle starting with a drop of water,. Starting with a snowflake was a great way to demonstrate this cycle to kids. Great pictures too.