Looking for a captivating winter story for children? Or perhaps, a delightful winter reading book for young readers? Look no further!

“Cold” by Tim McCanna, with illustrations by Ramona Kaulitzki, is the perfect choice. This enchanting book features stunning, magical illustrations, vivid descriptions that spark young imaginations, and heartwarming messages throughout.

The illustrator truly surpassed expectations with this masterpiece. Each page is more breathtaking than the last, showcasing cold climates from every corner of the globe, highlighting the unique beauty of each setting.

Kaulitzki has brought the text to life, expertly capturing animals in their environments with stunning realism, yet presenting them warm and welcomingly.

It was a delight to turn each page, eagerly anticipating the next scene and the wonders it would reveal.

This book is a treasure trove of rhymes and vivid descriptions, making the story engaging and educational.

The author skillfully weaves together words and phrases that are rarely found in children’s books, introducing young readers to new vocabulary while encouraging them to think deeply about the meaning behind each line.

For instance, take the line, “Cold is a desert shrouded by night; a hunter goes prowling in shimmering light.”

Here, children are introduced to words like shrouded, prowling, and shimmering, with detailed illustrations that offer visual clues, helping young readers grasp the meaning of these words on their own.

This clever use of language expands their vocabulary and sparks curiosity, helping them explore the deeper meanings of the text — a wonderful way to foster both language skills and imagination.

The beauty of this book grows with its central theme, which shines through on every page: while cold climates may vary across different ecosystems, they are all beautiful in their unique ways.

This message is especially meaningful in communities like ours, where winter seems to last longer than that of our neighbors. It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing the cold as an inconvenience, but this book gently reminds us of the inherent beauty and wonder that comes with it.

Through its pages, we are invited to appreciate the quiet beauty of snowy landscapes and the unique life that thrives in cold environments. It serves as a reminder that, no matter how long the chill may last, there is magic in every snowflake and every frosty breeze.

You can find “Cold” at the Star Valley, Alpine, Cokville, and LaBarge branch libraries.