Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past

Deem, James M.  2008.  Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past.  Boston: Houghton Mifflin.  ISBN 9780618800452

This intriguing and thought-provoking collection of scientific facts and stories of climbers will engage minds of many ages. Deem begins with the discovery of a 5300 year old mummy, finding his way to sacrificed Incan children and many other finds. The detail of the exhumed bodies is paired with text that gives detailed scientific evidence of why and how these bodies were preserved and the scientists’ speculation and evidence of how they died.

In addition to the scientific, historical and exploratory information, much information is also given about global warming and why the glaciers are revealing their long hidden secrets now.

Every page splits space between text and graphics. Many pictures of artifacts and glaciers are present, as well as lithographs of glacial journeys and images of scientists at work in the cold conditions. Maps and discussions give the reader the perspective of where the individuals were discovered, and often the journey taken by the ill-fated explorers, both alive and dead.

Accompanying this text are extensive resources for further exploration. Suggested websites, a bibliography and an index are present; vocabulary words are italicized and defined throughout the text.

Deem has compiled a fantastic resource for understanding both the science behind mummification by freezing and the reasons many have resurfaced in recent past.

"…[Deem’s book] boasts his signature balance of delightful shivers and solid science." (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/December 2005)

"...an intriguing read." (Kirkus Reviews/October 2008)

Possible Activities:
1. This book could easily be worked into a science-based classroom, particularly biology.
2. Additionally, this could be used as an example and incorporaed into a discussion of some changes taking place due to global warming.