Just So Stories

UQP

April 2024

ISBN: 9780702265693

RRP: $24.99

In one of those weird kind of quirks, I actually got Cassy’s second book before I got the copy of this, her debut title. When I finally got my hands on it, I decided I would save it to showcase during Picture Book Month because it is such a fine example of a picture book being both engagingly entertaining as well as instructive.

I’ve met adults who have no idea about the existence of seed vaults, which seems extraordinary in this day and age. I’ve also met adults who have never heard of Svalbard [really?? panserbjørne? cliff-ghasts? Lyra Belacqua? Not ringing any bells? sigh…..]. This beautiful book informs young readers of both these as well as the length of the polar nights, northern lights, travelling by snow mobile and the changing geology of Earth in a narrative non-fiction that demonstrates the importance of protecting resources for future generations.

I have known about the work of Crop Trust since its establishment and the premise of seed-saving for at least forty years. It was a common practice for those of us who were devotees of Grass Roots. I still save seeds, even though I no longer have a proper garden.

When Isla discovers some special seeds during one of her garden adventures with her botanist mum, she wants to keep them. Mum has an even better idea. When the global seed vault opens for one of its thrice-yearly sessions, Isla and her mother fly to Svalbard to personally deposit the precious seeds. Their trip is wonderfully described both in words and pictures, and even the youngest of readers will understand the purpose of keeping seeds safe.

The polar regions are eerily beautiful and while I’ve never been there, I have some photos to share via friends who have been as far north as Lapland. This is not only a charming read, written with a wealth of figurative language and opportunities for visualisations – well done, Cassy!- but stunningly illustrated by Briony Stewart.

There are teaching notes available, which seem to be geared mostly towards the upper end of the readership, and of course those ideas of future preservation, sustainability, conservation and hope are of utmost importance. But I would also see this as a perfect adjunct for a lower primary learning experience to accompany first biology (growing seeds, animal adaptations etc), cultural and geographical differences and weather, and believe there is ample material to support such topics freely available.

Highly recommended for Smalls from Prep upwards with a 5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ rating. Read more about the Global Seed Vault.