The author did careful research in preparing the book, which is documented in the bibliography. A natural interest in science, fostered from childhood by his physicist father, drew Jenkins to the topic. �I got excited when I realized how many different scientific concepts could be presented in the course of a journey to a high mountain peak. Everest allowed me to introduce climate, geology, geography, continental drift, altitude, and history in a book that is both an adventure and a survival story.� (Houghton Mifflin)
The layout and organization of the book make it useful as a reference tool, in addition to being a fascinating picture book. �The book follows a logical sequence, beginning with the statistics and continuing with a virtual climbing experience for the reader.� (Horn Book Guide, September 1, 1999) Subheadings, insets, diagrams, and an appendix make the clearly stated information easy to locate. Jenkins� comparison of the seven tallest mountains provides a context for understanding the truly massive dimensions of Everest.
Jenkins gives an objective report on the risks and rewards inherent in mountain climbing. His account shows a respect not only for those daring enough to scale the mountain, but for the mountain itself. He notes the sacred regard the Sherpa people have for the Everest, and credits the importance of their role in successful expeditions. He also exposes the ecological damage the mountain has suffered from the thousands of people who have left their refuse and discards strewn across its face. The vocabulary is scientifically and technically appropriate, while the presentation is straightforward and lucid.
The illustrations in the book are truly remarkable. Rendered entirely in cut-paper collages, Jenkins creates incredibly detailed pictures. The majesty and mystery of Everest, shrouded in snow, fog, and shadow, is powerfully portrayed. The text works its way through the art, appearing on expanses of sky, snow or mountain. Seamlessly woven together, each complements the other in telling the story of Everest. �Breathtaking cut-paper collages capture the dramatic vistas and the frightening realities of high-altitude climbs.� (Library Journal, December 1, 1999)
This book represents the happy marriage of Jenkins� natural affinity for science and art. Boys and girls of all ages will be captivated by the illustrations and the story that combine to make The Top of the World an adventure they enjoy vicariously. Without a doubt, some future mountaineers will thrill to their first glimpse of what might be: themselves, standing on the Top of the World.
Awards for The Top of the World
Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards
School Library Jounal Best Books of the Year
ALA Notable Books for Children
Bluebonnet Award (Nominee)
Rhode Island Children�s Book Award (Nominee)
NCTE Orbis Pictus Award (Nominee)
Beehive Children�s Informational Book Award (Nominee)
Prairie Pasque Award (Nominee)
Pennsylvania Young Reader�s Choice Award (Nominee)
Garden State Children�s Book Awards (Nominee)
Related Web Sites
Steve Jenkins Interview: htttp://www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com/catalog/authordetail.cfm?textType=interviews&authorID=1643
Meet Authors and Illustrators: Steve Jenkins:
http://www.childrenslit.com/f_stevejenkins.html
National Geographic�s Mount Everest Site: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/everest/
360-degree view from the top of Everest: http://www.panoramas.dk/fullscreen2/full22.html
Sources
Books in Print [database online]. Available from http://www.booksinprint.com. Accessed 15 October 2004.
Houghton Mifflin Co. 2004. Steve Jenkins interview. Available from
http://www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com/catalog/authordetail.cfm?textType=interviews&authorID=1643. Accessed 15 October 2004.
School of Library and Information Studies
TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY