SAFE CROSSING, by Kari Percival, Chronicle Books, Jan. 7, 2025, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)
A citizen scientist acts as a crossing guard for migrating amphibians in Safe Crossing, a nonfiction picture book by Kari Percival.
Every spring, frogs and salamanders must travel from wooded uplands where they were born to vernal pools where they will mate. Unfortunately, roads constructed through their habitats have made the journey dangerous for these slow-moving animals. Many never reach their destinations. But with the help of the Amphibian Migration Team, there is hope for a safe crossing!
Readers will learn about amphibians and their habitats and get an introduction to civic participation, too. The citizen scientist at the heart of this story presents her proposal for a wildlife tunnel to her local City Council and coordinates with stakeholders in the process like a wildlife biologist, a herpetologist, a roadway engineer, a surveyor, the Conservation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Transportation, contractors, and reporters. Kids will find out how local government works and how kids can actively create social change. —Synopsis provided by Chronicle Books
Safe Crossing is an up-close look at the life cycle of amphibians, specifically their migration. Author/illustrator Kari Percival’s text is clear and informative. The story is a nighttime adventure that little ones will enjoy. Percival’s artwork is playful and full of movement. Her use of color highlights the action.
Backmatter includes further details on life cycles, fun species facts, wildlife crossings, road safety, amphibian safety, being a community scientist and a glossary.
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