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A detailed account of the world-famous phenomenon found in Manitoba, Canada. Every year, tens of thousands of red-sided garter snakes emerge from the ground after being in a state of what is called suspended animation. Readers will find it nearly impossible to put the book down, and will find they cannot turn away from the amazing photography work. There is no question as to the accuracy of the information provided in this book, since it is featuring the experiments carried out by Bob Mason, a zoologist from Oregon State |
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University. He has dedicated over 15 years of his life to studying these animals he considers fascinating. Anyone who is a fan of snakes will fall in love with this book, and those who may not care much for them might leave with a sense of respect for these slithering and mysterious beings. Montgomery presents the information in a way that is easy to comprehend and expresses great respect for these reptiles, which in turn will allow readers to see that they are valuable and should be taken care of. The author organizes the information in five short chapters which allow readers to better grasp the contents. There is also a short section titled, �Unsolved Mysteries� which lists questions that have so far gone unanswered, but which will intrigue readers to continue learning about snakes. A map is provided which may help tourists reach the Narcisse snake dens, and there is a list �For Further Reading� which continues to encourage readers to investigate more on snakes. Finally, an index is provided at the back of the book. All these features make this book complete and quite helpful.
Readers will love learning that snakes� blood becomes �as thick as mayonnaise� during the state of brumation. "Their heart rate and breathing slows down,� and they do not eat or drink. Readers learn also that when the snakes begin to wake up, the males immediately begin trying to mate. The author�s style is quite easy-going, and speaks to the audience in a way that allows them to feel the excitement of newfound knowledge along with the scientist himself. Children are pictured holding some snakes, and this allows young readers to understand just how harmless these type of snakes are. The experiments are explained in detail and in an easy to comprehend format. �Here in the field, you might think a snake scientist would need lots of fancy equipment. But the team keeps it simple...� The author goes on to explain that the team uses portable computers, walkie-talkies, thermometers, pillowcases by the bulk, and lots of markers! The entire book is a joy to read, and the photography (by Nic Bishop) make it a book which is difficult to put down. School Library Journal says that, �The lively text communicates both the meticulous measurements required in this kind of work and the thrill of new discoveries.� A perfect addition to both an adult and children�s collection.
Montgomery, Sy. 1999. The Snake Scientist. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company.
ISBN 0-395-87169-7. |
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