About This Book
Reach for this book when your child expresses worry about the vulnerability of living things or shows a deep sensitivity toward animals in harsh environments. While ostensibly a science adventure, the story centers on Phoebe, a student who feels overwhelmed by the idea of animals suffering in the heat without water. It is an ideal choice for the child who needs facts to soothe their anxieties. As Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a magical journey through the desert, the book shifts from focusing on the 'harshness' of the environment to the incredible 'adaptations' of the creatures who live there. It is a perfect blend of STEM learning and emotional reassurance for children aged 6 to 9. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's empathy while empowering them with knowledge to replace fear with wonder.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book addresses the fear of environmental hardship and animal suffering. The approach is secular and scientific, using biological facts to provide a hopeful resolution: animals are not 'suffering,' they are specially designed for their homes.
