Whale Snow

June 23, 2003
First-time author Edwardson presents culture and custom through a child's eyes with this handsome tale about the whaling traditions of northern Alaska's Iñupiat Eskimos. Relayed in lyrical prose, the narrative centers on Amiqqaq, a modern-day boy whose father brings home the first bowhead whale of the season. Amiqqaq's grandma explains that the "fat snow" her grandson sees is "whale snow, comes when a whale has given itself to the People." Easy-to-imagine similes (e.g., "snowflakes as big as birds" and "massive chunks of blue-green ice... huge as houses") help readers visualize the frozen north, while debut illustrator Patterson's dreamy, muted watercolors create a peaceful counterpoint to the excitement of the whale catch. Amiqqaq travels with his father to the whaling camp on the frozen ocean and perches gleefully atop the enormous slain whale as villagers in fur-lined parkas cheer him. The softly edged, snow-filled pastel sky and the smiles of the people indicate celebration, however, Amiqqaq's questions about the whale attest to the Iñupiat awareness of the bowhead's sacrifice. A glossary of Iñupiaq words and an afterword detailing the Eskimos' relationship with the bowhead cap this attractive volume. While some younger readers may not fully appreciate the book's more metaphysical ideas (Amiqqaq recognizes the whale's spirit in the fellowship of villagers feasting on the whale), the story strikes an appropriate balance between a child's inquisitive delight and his respectful discoveries about his heritage. Ages 4-9.