Whaling Season: A Year in the Life of an Arctic Whale Scientist (Scientists in the Field Series)
Scientists in the Field Series
on Goodreads (65)
What’s inside...
It's late April in Barrow, Alaska, where the first whale of the spring whaling season has been caught. Men, women, and teenagers join the effort on snow machines to harvest the whale, continuing a tradition of the Inupiaq Eskimos for over two thousand years. John Craighead George, or Craig, an Arctic whale scientist, is also present. He has a longstanding agreement with the Inupiat to study bowhead whales, a subject of his study for nearly thirty years. The book follows Craig, his wife, colleagues, and the Inupiat people as they work on the ice and in Craig's lab, where he examines whale organs and crunches data, contributing to his expertise on bowheads. Craig, the son of renowned author Jean Craighead George, has a deep connection with nature and human culture, evident from the detailed narrative and vivid photographs by author Pete Lourie that transport readers to the remote, whale-centric world of Barrow, Alaska.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Craig George
Discussion points
What challenges do you think scientists face when studying whales in the Arctic?
Why is it important to learn about the lives of Arctic whales?
How do the scientists' observations help us understand our environment better?
What can we do to help protect the habitats of Arctic whales?
How do you feel about the relationship between humans and nature after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, encourage your child to think like a scientist, observing details and asking questions.
Use the book's photographs and illustrations to spark conversation, pointing out details and asking your child what they observe.
Connect the story to your child's experiences by discussing any encounters they have had with nature or animals.
After discussing each question, ask your child how they might want to learn more about the topic or explore similar subjects.
Reinforce the idea that by learning and caring about these topics, we can all make a positive impact on the world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of environmental conservation
Explanation: The book details the life and work of an Arctic whale scientist, emphasizing the need to study and protect the whales and their habitat.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more conscious of their environmental impact and understand the importance of protecting wildlife and natural resources.
Example Lesson: The value of scientific research and curiosity
Explanation: Through the depiction of the scientist's systematic study and observation, the book showcases how curiosity leads to important discoveries and understanding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions, explore, and experiment in all areas of life, fostering a lifelong love of learning and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The scientist often works with a team, demonstrating how collaboration contributes to achieving common goals and overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with peers in school projects, sports, and other activities, learning the importance of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Persistence and dedication
Explanation: The scientist’s commitment through the challenging Arctic conditions illustrates the importance of dedication in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of perseverance and hard work in their endeavors, be it academics, hobbies, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for different cultures and perspectives
Explanation: The book includes interactions with indigenous communities, highlighting how their knowledge and perspectives are integral to understanding the Arctic environment.
Real-World Application: Encourages respect and appreciation for diverse cultures and viewpoints, promoting inclusiveness and empathy in daily interactions.