Snowy Owl Invasion: Tracking an Unusual Migration

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School, Brunswick, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 12, 2018

Review

Markle is a master of nonfiction texts focusing on animal preservation, and this book is no exception. Gorgeous photographs accompany text that details the strange irruption of snowy owls from the Arctic to southern Canada and the United States. In the winter of 2013-14, snowy owls began appearing in areas far south of their normal habitat. This lead scientists to question "why?". Through the efforts of many scientists, and using GPS tracking devices, it was determined that due to a boom in the lemming population, more snowy owls were born that year, and were fed and survived. Then due to factors in climate change and shifting weather patterns, snowy owls were driven farther south. In the areas of Canada and the United States, they found plenty of food and continued to thrive. Markle walks the reader through the process of discovery, the trial and error of trying to track wild animals. Readers interested in conservation and the scientific process will enjoy this book. Those looking for an informational text for a report on owls will not find this useful though if they are looking, specifically, for information on snowy owls, they could extract many facts and details about this type of owl; the student would have to be a strong synthesizer of data. Markle books are a sure-thing: well-written in an easy-to-read style; well-researched, including sources, glossary, and index; and visually appealing. Purchase for any general collection though highlighting in a display or booktalking this title will ensure greater circulation.

Overall Book Score: very good