Little Cloud: The Science of a Hurricane

With so much attention on effects of climate change, a book for younger readers about hurricanes will be well-received, especially one written by a qualified meteorologist who can present the science facts in an appealing way for this audience. The story follows Little Cloud from his beginnings as a puffy cumulus born from condensation in sunny skies through various stages of his growth as he drifts west from Africa. Once he reaches tropical storm status, scientists select his name, Nate. Categories of hurricanes are described in both visual and written terms, along with a graphic showing their anatomy, including details about the eye. As full-grown Nate approaches landfall, the focus shifts to warnings and preparations for people in his path. If they are lucky, Nate is slowed and weakened by mountains and gradually diminishes into water droplets to complete the water cycle once again.

Along with the narration of Nate’s journey, each page includes a “Weather Fact” insert to elaborate on the details. Finally, a “Fact Page” offers additional cool information such as reasons for rotation direction of storms, the degree of damage from Hurricane Katrina and the extent of hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean. The “Author’s Note” is a brief look at Johanna Wagstaffe’s personal journey to a career in weather science. Her curiosity and experience will inspire youngsters to consider their own options in a science field.

The bright, animated graphics (and Nate’s rosy-cheeked face) and simple text of the main story will attract young readers. The “Weather Facts”, written at a slightly higher reading level, are still accessible. The tiny font size used there might deter some from reading all of the longer inserts, however. Hurricane categories are clear and easy to follow. Two double page spreads describe Nate’s birth and development: on the first spread he’s shown to the west (left) of Africa. However, on the second spread, his hurricane growth stages that “...drifted west toward North America...” are still shown progressing from left to right. Possibly confusing? Also, on the first set of these pages, Nate is referred to by name in the insert, but readers aren’t introduced to him for four more pages.

The last note on the “Fact Page” mentions effects of climate change and urges readers to learn as much as they can about the world. It notes that “the more understanding you have about storms, the more changes you can make”. While there is limited space to explain further, this statement is vague and probably meaningless without adult guidance to help readers identify and discuss the kind of ‘changes’ implied.

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.