Wind Is a Dance

Poetic text and ethereal illustrations combine with science facts about wind in this delightful informational picture book.

“You can feel wind … but you can’t see it. What is wind?” This exploration of different types of wind pairs lyrical descriptions of wind types with accessible, informational sidebars about each. The whimsical narrative uses metaphor to help readers visualize wind’s characteristics: “Wind is a butterfly – fluffing flower petals and ruffling riverbank grasses.” Informative bubbles on each page compliment these descriptions with short explanations of each wind type, which range from a light breeze to a hurricane. Evocative illustrations further bring the text to life in this fascinating introduction to the ever-changing wind.

Author Debra Kempf Shumaker uses figurative language and metaphors to capture the imagination of readers as they learn about wind. Her imagery will inspire readers to find their own words to represent the world around them, and in particular to answer the question at the end of the book: “How would you describe the wind today?” The breezy illustrations by award-winning, bestselling artist Josée Bisaillon help readers feel the movement of the air. With its easy-to-understand depictions of the types of wind, this is a perfect STEAM pick for lessons on daily and seasonal weather. More information about types of wind, the Beaufort scale and a list of resources for further learning are at the back of the book.