Groundhog Day, Vol. 33

Children's Literature - Carlee Hallman

With stunning colored photographs of groundhogs and simple text, many facts about Groundhog Day are shared. Groundhog Day is February 2nd in the United States and Canada. If the groundhog sees his shadow on that day, six more weeks of winter weather is predicted. If the groundhog does not see his shadow, spring will come early. However the book states: "Groundhogs do not really know when spring will come." The town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania was the first place to celebrate this festival 100 years ago. Their groundhog is named Punxsutawney Phil. "Since 1887, Phil's predictions have been right 39% of the time." Wiarton, Ontario, Canada has a famous groundhog that is an albino. There is even a funny movie called "Groundhog Day." Words in heavy type are defined in a glossary at the end. Each two page spread has two photographs and a "Did You Know?" question. There is a table of contents, quiz at the back, and an index. Children will enjoy the tongue-in-cheek seriousness while they learn about this winter holiday. Reviewer: Carlee Hallman