The Secret Stream

In her newest nonfiction wonder, children’s award-winning author, Kimberly Ridley, brings readers the voice of a stream. What begins as simple raindrops evolves into a gently trickling stream, providing safe refuge for creepy crawlers and an environment in which fungi and bacteria can proliferate. This allows a plethora of creatures, from stonefly nymphs to caddisfly larvae, to survive and then become tasty treats for those nearby who wait in wonderment for the nourishment that will sustain them. As more precipitation falls and joins the stream, and wind and current propel the waters onward, this life-giving source turns into a magical river of flowing awe.

The Secret Stream is a perfect pick for elementary school classrooms and libraries. It’s lush with realistic, detailed spreads and packed with information on all sorts of aquatic habitats. Far from dense and dry, the facts are presented in a child-friendly format and accentuated with various colors. A glossary of terms, as well as book and website suggestions for further reading, are included at the end of the book. Many of the featured “characters” (critters) throughout are outlined with greater specificity as well. Children ages five to ten who are budding environmentalists and biologists will likely count this among their favorites.