Kits, Cubs, and Calves: An Arctic Summer. Written by Suzie Napayok-Short and illustrated by Tamara Campeau. Inhabit Media, Fitzhenry and Whiteside, 2020. $17.95 ages 9 and up

 

"The little grey one swims toward the pod, 
stopping along the way to breathe. It seems

at times to have trouble moving forward. 

The mother beluga soon spots the calf, and 

after a moment she begins moving 

cautiously toward the little whale. She swims

around it, as if wondering why it's alone ... " 

Visiting her family in Nunavut has Akuluk excited for a boat ride with her aunt and uncle. He will take his boat into the Arctic Ocean, a powerful and beautiful place that will allow her to see the sights and sounds that are part of the spectacular environment. She knows she will see birds and animals: the polar bear, the Arctic fox, the Arctic tern, and the beluga whale. She could not be more fascinated. 

As they travel, her aunt and uncle teach her about the wildlife she is so happy to see. They explain ways in which these magnificent animals care for their young, and provide protection from other animals within the ocean ecosystem. They have much to teach, and she is happy to learn from them. The connection she makes with her family assure the visit is a highlight of the spring season. It helps her realize that she has a role to play in respecting the natural world that gives so much, and in protecting it to ensure its future. Life in any environment is dependent upon all who share it, and people have a huge role to play in maintaining and enriching it. 

Readers are sure to enjoy learning about the animals of the Arctic ocean, and to see them at work and play. It's the best time of all to see the new babies, and watch as they interact. Akuluk is most excited when they see a pod of beluga whales. As they watch, the whales provide care and acceptance for a young orphan, allowing it a space in their pod. 

Clear, colorful artwork matches the words and allows readers a chance to take a careful look at the Arctic landscape and the watery surroundings. It feels akin to being there. A glossary provides meaning and Inuktitut pronunciation for the unfamiliar words. This clear picture of life in an Arctic spring will be appreciated for all it has to offer.