Poetry: Winter Bees

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sidman, Joyce 2014. WINTER BEES & OTHER POEMS OF THE COLD New York: HMH Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0547906501

PLOT SUMMARY

In Joyce Sidman’s book of poetry about animals during the winter we are provided a hauntingly beautiful narrative on survival. Each poem contained in this collection offers the reader a glimpse into the adaptations and preparations different types of animals make for the long winter months. Joyce provides not only a well-crafted poem for each animal but she also provides actual facts and information about the animals and their activities during the winter months. From the first poem, Dreams of a Tundra Swan, to the last, Triolet for Skunk Cabbage, the reader is taken on a journey from the first glimpse of winter to the first sign of spring.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

WINTER BEES is a collection of poems that will entice poetry lovers and scientists alike. Joyce Sidman takes basic scientific facts and turns them into beautiful, well written poems about survival in the winter. Each animal, bird, bee, etc., highlighted for their adaptations to the cold, is given a poem that draws readers in with the detailed and image-filled diction. Sidman does a beautiful job of taking science and turning it into beauty. 

Accompanying each poem is a short paragraph highlighting the science behind each animal’s adaptation to the cold. The paragraph gives facts, locations, and actual scientific names to some of the actions taking place on the page. This extra information provided not only enhances the reader’s experience but will also encourage readers to engage with the actual science of the actions taking place. 

Rick Allen, the illustrator, provides the reader with images that tell the full story of the poem and scientific information provided. The double-page spreads of images are very well-done and provide the reader with the right amount of detail to enhance the reading experience. The illustrations truly draw the reader into each story and allows them to stay entranced with each animal’s story of survival.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Winter Bees distinguishes itself with a focus on the science of animal survival, coupled with superlative illustrations. Readers young and old will enjoy this winter journey and marvel at the wonders of nature."

BOOKLIST: "Concluded with a glossary of big but fascinating words, this is equally suited to curricular units and cozy reads in front of a fire."

KIRKUS REVIEWS: "A work to be savored by young artists and scientists."

CONNECTIONS

* Junior Library Guild Selection Winner

* This collection of poetry could also be used in conjunction with science units about animal’s adaptations to winter. Students could research their own animal and how they survive the winter.

* Invite students to create their own poems about nature and animals throughout any season.

* Other collections of poetry by Joyce Sidman:

Sidman, Joyce. DARK EMPEROR AND OTHER POEMS OF THE NIGHT ISBN 0547152280

Sidman, Joyce. BUTTERFLY EYES AND OTHER SECRETS OF THE MEADOW. ISBN 061856313X