Caves

Gr 1-4--Curiosity can lead to some interesting places. Cross Beckerman shares her curiosity for caves and opens up her discoveries of what's hiding in those dark places with young readers. Big, beautiful, and colorful artwork showcases cave systems around the globe, such as the Lascaux Cave in France and its ancient drawings, the Glowworm Grotto of Waitomo Caves in New Zealand, and the massive bat colony of Bracken Cave in Texas. The book invites young readers to explore--safely--the wonder of caves, while also introducing future spelunkers to the rules and equipment of exploring. Over the book's 40 pages, the text vacillates between carefully styled, almost lyrical prose and informative blocks of text. Such a reading is an exciting way to engage with the rhythm of the story, but also there is an opportunity to craft a particular takeaway of the book: an artful cave-reading experience or an information-focused track. VERDICT Whether for pleasure or for research, this is a wonderful book to get lost in.--Jessica Schriver

Homing in on seven caves with distinctive characteristics, Cross Beckerman (When the Sky Glows) injects genuine passion into this nonfiction examination of caves and caving. The draw of secret places deep in the earth, staccato opening lines acknowledge, is simultaneously frightening and irresistible: "Excitement and fear battle./ Which will win?" Beginning with a definition of the subject, formally descriptive text alternates with beckoning, onomatopoeic free verse to introduce various locales. Among these are the "scorching" crystal caverns of Naica, Mexico, filled with 39-foot natural crystals; a fossil-filled South African cave system whose passage was traversed by highly dexterous female spelunkers; and an underwater cave system in Florida that takes 29 hours to cross. In a striking picture book debut that also demystifies cave-dwelling wildlife, including bats and glowworms, animator Chock combines realistic-looking rock surfaces with softly shaded adult and child figures overwhelmed by the natural features. The book's large trim size underscores the enormous voids of these interior spaces, while matte black pages convey their velvety darkness. Together, text and artwork deliver a high-impact introduction to the lure of caves. Back matter includes creators' notes and "Cave Rules" that emphasize the crucial need for safety. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Lara Perkins, Andrea Brown Literary. (Oct.)