Western & Southwestern States, Birds, Animal Habitats

The Eagle and the River

Name: The Eagle and the River
Author: Charles Craighead, Tom Mangelsen
ISBN: 9780027622652

by Charles Craighead, Tom Mangelsen

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Overview

Wyoming's Snake River is home to many creatures--elk, moose, coyotes, beavers, and birds of all kinds. It is winter, and the animals are searching for food--for grass and twigs under the snow, for plants and seeds in the cold water, or for the bits and bones leftover from another animal's meal.High in the sky, a bald eagle soars in lazy circles. It sees the bare trees, the blanket of snow covering the land, and the dark ribbon of water that is the Snake River. From the air, the eagle watches each creature. And it, too, searches for food. As it circles over the moving water, it watches for fish, waiting for one to come near the surface and become its supper.

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Editorials

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5-Spectacular, full-color photographs of a bald eagle in flight and of all that it surveys along Wyoming's Snake River make this book a must for budding naturalists. Each page reveals stunning winter views of the frozen river and the snow-covered land around it, and the clear, informative text explains the interdependence of the creatures that make this special place their home. From the elk to the white ermine, the trumpeter swan to the dipper, these animals and birds are beautiful to watch and fascinating to read about. An outstanding offering.-Kathleen McCabe, East Meadow Public Library, NY

Kay Weisman

In this engaging photo-essay, Craighead and Mangelsen provide a bald eagle's view of Wyoming's Snake River and its wintry surroundings. The snow-covered landscape contrasts sharply with the twisty, dark blue river. As the eagle pursues its goal--a meal of fish--readers are treated to a tour of the nearby flora and fauna. Animals ranging from buffalo and elk to tiny insects whose larvae winter in the river depend on the Snake for food and shelter. The trees and grasses along the shore, while less obvious in winter, also help to sustain this ecosystem. Craighead's clearly written text tells the story of an eagle's search for food and conveys much natural history without anthropomorphizing. Mangelsen's crisp photos further clarify the text, providing detailed close-ups of the animals. An excellent addition to units on ecology or winter animals.