A personified cumulus cloud travels through the environment and transforms into a hurricane, going through the stages of becoming a tropical depression and tropical storm. A narrative follows the cloud through its journey, and sidebars, callouts and illustrated diagrams further explain the science.
This STEM-central book contains additional facts about hurricanes, which are peppered throughout and included on a final “Fact” page (eg., how they are named, the water cycle, etc.).
The author is a well-known CBC personality and is active on social media, and she authored Orca’s Fault Lines: Understanding the Power of Earthquakes .
Illustrator Julie McLaughlin was affected by the devastating 1987 tornado in Edmonton, which had a lifelong impact on her and resulted in a deep interest in all things weather and storms. At a young age she had memorized all the cloud formations that she illustrated for this book.
“Simple primary narrative...Cheery, digitally collaged illustrations add even more information...clear enough for early weather watchers.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“This little book is a good investment in introductory knowledge about an intriguing meteorological phenomenon. With the basic information provided by Little Cloud, kids will be better equipped to understand and become involved in a fascinating branch of science. Highly Recommended.”
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Rarely has severe weather been so sweetly packaged as in this story of Nate, a little cloud that becomes a hurricane.”
– Booklist
“Colorful illustrations and kid-friendly text combine to make this title a wonderful addition…A great title to complement any weather, STEM, or STEAM unit. Highly recommended.”
– School Library Connection
“A book that is accessible and descriptive without overwhelming the target audience. Anyone interested in worrisome weather will be intrigued and informed.”
– Sal's Fiction Addiction
“Excellent way to introduce young readers to the science of hurricanes. Would make an excellent purchase for elementary school libraries or classrooms. Presents the science of hurricanes in a cute non-threatening way.”
