The Noisy Puddle: A Vernal Pool Through the Seasons

A lyrical dip into the noisy, magical world of a vernal pool

"This book literally has everything you would want in a science and nature title for younger readers ... Beautiful from tip to tail and back again." ―Betsy Bird, A Fuse 8 Production

In this vibrant and poetic informational picture book, two curious siblings observe the hidden world of a vernal pool: a special kind of puddle habitat that pops up in the spring, dries up by summer, reappears in the fall, and freezes over in the winter―only to come back again in the spring.

Young naturalists and future water stewards will be encouraged to listen, watch, and wait to witness the seasonal changes of the ever-changing puddle and its inhabitants. As readers follow along with the rhythmic text, they will be fascinated to discover many familiar and not-so-familiar creatures that make up the surprising web of interrelationships living in these vital pop-up pools.

With buoyant, lyrical text and beautiful cut-paper collage illustrations, The Noisy Puddle is an immersive introduction to “now-you-see-me, now-you-don’t” wetland habitats.

LINDA BOOTH SWEENEY is an author and educator dedicated to fostering a sense of wonder and stewardship for living systems. Her books for children include Apart, Together: A Book About Transformation. When not writing, Linda can often be found exploring vernal pools near her home in Concord, Massachusetts.

MIKI SATO is an artist and maker of tiny things who uses a variety of different papers and fabrics to create her intricate, 3D-looking illustrations. Born and raised in Ottawa, she now lives in Toronto, Ontario.