Are you studying ponds and pond life? Ponds are teeming with life, from tiny tadpoles and busy beavers to floating lily pads and wading birds. There is so much to learn about these diverse ecosystems. Here are a few books to start your journey!
On a summer night by a small pond, all seems still. But a closer look reveals a world of activity—mayflies dart, beetles dive, frogs spring, skunks shuffle, and owls swoop. As a young girl watches, the circle of life unfolds. Betsy Franco’s rhythmic, cumulative text makes this a lively read-aloud, and rich, luminous paintings by Stefano Vitale capture the bold beauty of nature. Young readers will be inspired to journey into their own backyards and discover the wonder of the living, breathing world around them.
Over And Under The Pond: Kate Messner
In Over and Under the Pond, readers will discover the plants and animals that make up the rich, interconnected ecosystem of a mountain pond. Over the pond, the water is a mirror, reflecting the sky. But under the water is a hidden world of creatures—minnows darting, beavers diving, and tadpoles growing.
Pond Walk: Nancy Elizabeth Wallace
Buddy and his mother are spending a relaxing day at Pete’s Pond. As Mama tells Buddy about the animals, bugs, and plants they see, Buddy sketches them on his drawing pad. Ducks! Whirligig beetles! Lily pads! Buddy is curious about everything, but most of all, he hopes to see a turtle. And he does―but not the kind he expected! This book, illustrated with photographs and cut-paper artwork, is a perfect introduction to environmental science and biology, but will also be useful to all enthusiastic pond goers. A make-a-rock turtle craft activity is included.
Turtle Splash!: Countdown at the Pond
One by one, ten turtles splash into the pond. A counting book and fun exploration of animals at the pond, perfect for preschoolers.
Songs of the Water Boatman and Other Pond Poems: Joyce Sidman
From spring’s first thaw to autumn’s chill, the world of the pond is a dramatic place. Though seemingly quiet, ponds are teeming with life and full of surprises. Their denizens—from peepers to painted turtles, duckweed to diving beetles—lead secret and fascinating lives. A unique blend of whimsy, science, poetry, and hand-colored woodcuts, this Caldecott Honor-winning collection invites us to take a closer look at our hidden ponds and wetlands. Here is a celebration of their beauty and their mystery.
Around the Pond: Who’s Been Here? : Lindsay Barrett George
Cammy and William follow an old deer path around the pond in search of blueberries. But unexpectedly they find a lot more. Clue after clue tells them what kind of animal has been there before and left its trace behind.
Mouse on the River: A Journey Through Nature
This gorgeous book follows Mouse on a new adventure―from the woods, down a gently flowing river, to the open sea―to visit an old friend. Detailed illustrations feature many plants and animals to identify, and the atmospheric, rhyming text winds down to a peaceful conclusion perfect for bedtime.
When Flash the curious fish finds himself stuck in a jar in a little boy’s bedroom, his aunt and uncles are determined to save him. But how can three fish rescue one that’s on dry land? With the help of a wise old frog and a little magic, even the most unlikely wishes can come true.
Fish and fungi, plants and protists, mammals and monera all seem to get along swimmingly in and around the peaceful-looking pond environment. But a closer look at a small square reveals an ever-changing world. . .home to a larger variety of creatures and goings-on than you’d ever imagine, even in just a drop of its water!
Ready to learn more abou pond life? Check out our pond study!
