Snowflake Bentley by: Jacqueline Martin (non-fiction)

This biography of Wilson Bentley, tells the story of a man during the 19th century who was enthralled with the formation of snowflakes. He took hundreds of photographs over long periods of time and continued his study of this unique form of water. This picture book is suitable for lower elementary grades because it includes fantastic visual components (water color illustrations and copies of photographs and woodcuts) as well as for older elementary grades because of its focus on the science concepts associated with snowflakes.

I would use this book as an alternative method of studying water. I would include this book in a book pass when beginning a new science unit on water. When students realize the topic of the book pass (water), they may even question why this book is included because it may not be obvious to everyone that a snowflake is just water in a different form. Here, as well as if the book was read aloud, will promote science-focused discussions with the students. Also, Bentley's story models how learning science truly can be an interesting time of inquiry (not just traditional material learned in textbooks).