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Children's Nonfiction Weather

Kersplash! A Cloud Bursts

by (author) Jessica Kulekjian

illustrated by Zoe Si

Publisher
Kids Can Press
Initial publish date
May 2025
Category
Weather, General, Water (Oceans, Lakes, etc.)
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9781525308901
    Publish Date
    May 2025
    List Price
    $21.99

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Where to buy it

Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels

  • Age: 5 to 8
  • Grade: k to 3
  • Reading age: 5 to 8

Description

This fun, informational picture book expertly pairs poetry and science to explain how a cloud experiences the water cycle.

Here's an innovative story about the water cycle - told by a cloud! The cloud describes the process in lyrical prose, complemented by side commentary from a clever bird who fills in the science facts. First, the cloud soaks up moisture, gathering “steam from a cup of tea” and “vapors from salty seas.” Then, it becomes full and heavy: its “soggy edges bulge.” Finally, it BURSTS, creating a rainstorm, punctuated by thunder and lightning. Until, at last, it's spent, “frizzled, drizzled, drained,” leaving only a rainbow.

With its inventive combination of poetic and explanatory language, this compelling book is ideal for reading aloud and interaction. The accessible text by Jessica Kulekjian and appealing, simple art by Pulitzer Prize-nominated cartoonist and illustrator Zoe Si effortlessly teach young children about how clouds form, explaining what water vapor is and how it moves from the air to the ground and back again. Expert-vetted back matter includes diagrams and explanations of the three stages of the water cycle, information about types of clouds and an exploration of the life cycle of a thunderstorm. It's a perfect pick for science lessons on weather and the water cycle, and a great companion book to Kaboom! A Volcano Erupts.

About the authors

After a childhood spent outdoors, Jessica Kulekjian studied education and creative writing in college. Now, she teaches second grade and writes stories inspired by her passion for nature, free play and learning. She is the author of several books for children, including Before We Stood Tall, an NCTE Notable Book in Poetry. Jessica lives in central California with her family.

Jessica Kulekjian's profile page

Zoe Si is a cartoonist and illustrator who has illustrated a number of children’s books and is a regular contributor of cartoons and humor pieces to the New Yorker. She has a lifelong passion for laughing at her own jokes and is always looking for new ways to tell stories with her art. Zoe lives with her husband in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, where she also practiced law for several years. Visit her at www.zoe-si.com.

Zoe Si's profile page

Editorial Reviews

This is a book that begs to be read out loud ... a fun and effective introduction to volcanology that should perk up elementary STEAM collections.—Booklist (Praise for Kaboom! A Volcano Erupts)

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