Award-winning nature writer Mary Batten uncovers the climate change mysteries of our planet's coldest, most extreme environment--Antarctica. With magnificent illustrations from Thomas Gonzalez.

★ "Informative...fascinating.... A superb choice for students who are studying animal adaptation and how climate change impacts Antarctica. The well-researched text and captivating illustrations work well to convey the importance of conservation." --School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Did you know that Antarctica could be the key to long-standing questions about the Earth and climate change? Though it seems very far away from us at the bottom of the world, this frozen continent affects weather, ocean currents, and sea levels all over the Earth. Its wildlife survives--and even thrives--on ice. And in the long run, so do we.

From award-winning, experienced nature writer Mary Batten comes a remarkable nonfiction picture book that plumbs the mysteries of one of the most hostile environments on the planet. With clear, engaging language, Batten explores fascinating questions that scientists the world over have been researching, such as:

• In the intensely cold, windy, and dry environment of Antarctica, how does a wide variety of wildlife survive?
• How do some species of Antarctic fishes make a natural antifreeze that prevents their blood from freezing solid?
• How does a forest of giant seaweed flourish under the sea when no other trees grow on the continent?
• Antarctica's creatures are exquisitely adapted to their extreme habitat, but can they survive warmer waters and atmosphere?

New York Times bestselling illustrator Thomas Gonzalez (14 Cows for America) brings Batten's text to life with detailed, realistic paintings that leap off the page.

An ideal resource for young science lovers and educators, this informative volume is perfect for classroom units on climate change, conservation, ecology, environment, nature, oceanography, and more.

Also by Mary Batten:
Aliens from Earth
Hey Daddy Animal Fathers and Their Babies
Please Don't Wake the Animals
Who Has a Belly Button?