Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past by James M. Deem

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Deem, James M. (2008). BODIES FROM THE ICE: MELTING GLACIERS AND THE RECOVERY OF THE PAST.  NY: Houghton Mifflin.  ISBN 13- 9780618800452

PLOT SUMMARY

In Bodies from the Ice, Deem presents a captivating photo essay about glaciers - the myths surrounding them, the mysteries of lost adventurers, and the amazing bodily remains found within.  Through a combination of crisp text, vintage images, and spectacular photography, he shares fascinating stories about such topics as the “Iceman of the Alps” and the “Frozen Children of the Andes.”  Although such findings are very intriguing, this book serves to remind readers that this knowledge comes at a high cost – the continuous shrinking of glaciers.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Deem’s story appears factual and accurate because he consistently refers to the scientific study of the remains that have been found in the glaciers.  It is clearly evident that the text is based on the work of scientists, researchers, anthropologists, and glaciologists.  For example, he shares that, “In June 2001, almost ten years of Otzi’s discovery, a team of scientists discovered an arrowhead embedded in his left shoulder.”  When discussing the frozen children, he states that “Researchers examined their teeth and bones to determine the children’s ages.”  On this same topic, Deem mentions a particular anthropologist by the name of Johan Reinhard and then proceeds to describe Reinhard’s remarkable discoveries on a mountain in Peru.  These types of information are further supported by Deem’s extensive bibliography which references many scientific journal articles and books on these specific subjects. The illustration credits show readers where Deem acquired the various images and photographs in the book thus proving their authenticity.  The fact that Deem has previously written several other books on the topic of mummified remains makes this current work even more credible.  These books include Bodies from the Ash: Life and Death in Ancient Pompeii, and Bodies from the Bog.

This book is organized by topics which are conveniently listed in the Table of Contents.  This enables readers to pick and choose what interests them most.  There is a very clever and clear sequence throughout the book.  Deem immediately captures the reader’s interest in the opening chapter which tells about the recovery of Otzi, the Iceman of the Alps.  The successive chapters provide information regarding how glaciers protect and then expose such remains, early adventurers, famous explorers, and more recent mummified discoveries.  The final chapter, “Saving the Past,” is also an attention-grabber because its startling facts and revealing photos remind readers of the high price that is paid in order for such discoveries to be made.  He leaves readers wondering as do scientists, if the meltdown will continue or if another ice age cycle will eventually begin.  Just as Otzi’s remains were shocking at the beginning of the book, so too are Deem’s final words, “…visit an alpine glacier while you can.  If glaciers continue to melt, you may never get the chance.”

The design of the book plays a huge part in its appeal.  Since most people have not visited a glacier, the use of bold full page photos, maps, and vintage images effectively “brings” the glacier to the reader.  When reading this book, it is obvious that great care was taken to select interesting photographs that would complement the text.  For example, one photo shows Otzi before being removed from the ice, one as he is being carried away, and several others show different views of the remains on display.  By placing each picture alongside the accompanying text, readers can enjoy the story and illustrations at the same time.  This is very important because one doesn’t want to have to flip a page to see a photo about a topic that was discussed on a previous page. 

Deem’s style is extraordinary because he can take a story about something gruesome like mummified remains and make it captivating.  He accomplishes this by combining interesting facts with spectacular photographs.  This brings out the curiosity in readers and encourages them to continue reading.  Although the pictures of frozen children may be slightly disturbing, their stories make an incredible read that is sure to be remembered. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS/AWARDS
2009 Robert F. Sibert Informational Award Honor Book
Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Books of 2008
ALA Notable Book for Children 2009
2009 Outstanding Science Trade Book for Students K-12

Starred Review from Kirkus Reviews:  (Ages 10-16) "An intriguing read. . .with a bonus environmental message."

From Booklist: (Grades 4 -7) "Heavily illustrated with historical memorabilia as well as photos of bodies, scenery, artifacts. . .this offers a lot to look at and learn about."

CONNECTIONS - Science
Learn more about glaciers by exploring "The Glacier Page" at James Deem's website.  There are links to additional books, photos, and news about glaciers. www.jamesmdeem.com/books.icebodies.htm

Other fact-filled websites about glaciers include:
www.athropolis.com/links/glacier.htm
kids.yahoo.com/directory/Science-and-Nature/The-Earth/Geology/Glaciers-and-Icebergs

For a nice selection of teacher-approved videos on glaciers, see:
www.neok12.com/Glaciers.htm