Sue Shanks reviews Winter Sleep: a hibernation story by Sean Taylor & Alex Morss
This book is comprised of two sections focussing on the topic of hibernation.
The first section is a narrative story about a boy visiting his grandmother in winter, following an earlier visit he had made in the summer. He recollects that in summer he enjoyed exciting nature walks in the local environment with his very knowledgeable grandmother. He was able to spot and explore a wide variety of habitats and see the plants and animals which live there. However, on his return winter visit he is initially disappointed to find a cold and deserted landscape. He thinks that everything is dead until his grandmother reveals what has happened to all the creatures and plants he saw and introduces him to the concept of hibernation.
The second section of the book is concerned with a scientific approach to hibernation, pitched at a level suitable for the young learner (Reading age: 5 -7 years). There is a brief explanation of hibernation followed by information about the hibernating activity of some mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds and minibeasts.
Finally the reader is left with some simple practical actions they can take to support nature, along with useful websites and organisations which will offer more information.
I found this a delightful book and particularly enjoyed the intergenerational aspect of the narrative story and the recognition of the importance of natural history knowledge relating to the local environment and importantly the value of sharing such knowledge. The illustrations are enchanting and complement the text and tone of the gentle story perfectly. The second section details more specific information to pique a child’s interest further about the seasons and hibernation.
Amongst other discussions and conversations, the book would particularly support a teacher exploring the topic of seasonal changes (National curriculum – KS1 science). Perhaps it could even encourage a teacher to explore the school grounds or nearby local environment repeatedly with a class of children, enabling them to make first-hand observations of seasonal variations and their impact on the natural world.
By contrast, the calm quality of writing and text also makes for a perfect, informative bedtime story.
Additional note: There are other delightful books in the same series relating to the seasons – Wild Summer and Busy Spring.
Taylor, S. & Morss, A. (2021). Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story. London: Happy Yak (an imprint of the Quarto Group). ISBN: 978-07112-7015-2. Paperback & hardback, 32 pages. Variously priced online (around £7.99 pb; £12.59 hb).