Frozen in Time: What Ice Cores Can Tell Us About Climate Change

Gr 6 Up–Engaging, relevant, and informative, this book introduces the vital role ice cores play in understanding the Earth’s climate. The narrative follows a new breed of scientist—the paleoclimatologist—whose work not only dives deep into history but also provides solutions for our future. Through a blend of scientific insight and accessible language, it is revealed how these frozen time capsules hold thousands of years of atmospheric data, revealing patterns and changes that are crucial in the face of today’s climate crisis. Each chapter is thoughtfully crafted, featuring a “Cool Vocabulary” section that enhances understanding. Readers are taken on an adventurous ice core expedition, learning how scientists drill in extreme conditions, like Antarctica, while addressing practical matters, such as keeping warm and going to the bathroom. The book masterfully combines this real-world experience with photographs, diagrams, charts, and maps, alongside a conversational penguin who narrates interesting sidebars. The content is enriched by hands-on activities, and each chapter concludes with a meaningful science experiment or “science in action” section. These age-appropriate experiments sometimes require adult supervision. The inclusion of related math problems also helps with the understanding of scientific principles, making them applicable to everyday life. The closing chapter emphasizes the critical role of ice in the fight against climate change, tying together the book’s themes and inspiring a sense of agency in young readers. The back matter’s source list, photo credits, and index add to the book’s educational value.