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Siberia

Elementary, Middle

Description

This riveting novel describes a world of the future where climate change and habitat destruction have ravaged the Earth.  Rosita and Mama struggle to eke out an existence in the bleak environment of the Settlements.  Then one day Rosita discovers her mother has a special secret.  As she learns about the Lindquists, the seeds of vanished animals, Rosita promises to fulfill Mama's destiny.  With her mother gone Rosita escapes her cruel life to embark on an epic journey across the frozen landscape.  Along the way she meets strangers who befriend and betray her and discovers the mysteries of the Lindquist seeds.  Ultimately Rosita triumphs over the evil that threatened to stop her, but will it be enough to save the destroyed world she came from?  Based on the true account of scientists who protected the Leningrad seed bank during the Second World War, this tale uniquely blends science and literature to provide an exciting and authentic reading experience.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

With a focus on seed saving to maintain genetic diversity this book could be used as an introduction to a biodiversity unit with students participating in a seed saving workshop delivered by a member of a local community garden.  Scientific nomenclature is also used throughout the book, thus the story would make an innovative introduction to a unit on classification.  Students could investigate the names in the book and explore how the categories are differentiated from each other.  This story describes some of the environmental, social and economic consequences of climate change.   Students could explore how climate change could impact their own community.  They could also prepare individual action plans that identify ways in which they can make positive changes at home to benefit the environment. 

Relevant Curriculum Units

The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.

Themes Addressed

Air, Atmosphere & Climate (1)

  • Climate Change

Ecosystems (2)

  • Biodiversity
  • Interdependence

Science and Technology (1)

  • Analysing Conventional Science

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