Disappearing Lake

by Debbie S. Miller, Jon Van Zyle (Illustrator)

Describes the formation of a vernal lake in Alaska's Denali National Park and the various creatures that make their homes in and around it.

Genres: Childrens

Paperback

First published March 1, 1997

About the author

Debbie S Miller has lived in Alaska for 40 years, and has developed a passion for writing nature books about the extraordinary wilderness and wildlife that surround our home near Fairbanks. When she looks out my office window, she may see a moose walking by, chickadees or gray jays at the bird feeder, or a fox on the prowl.

During the early years, Debbie taught school in Arctic Village, a small village in the Brooks Range. She learned about the fascinating culture of the Athabaskan Indians, the natural history of the region, and the wonders of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, or ANWR. For many years Debbie's family explored this incredible place, studied the great caribou herds, and observed wolves, grizzly and polar bears, migratory birds, and other Alaska animals. Their many outdoor adventures and encounters with wildlife inspired her to write nature books for children and adults.

Debbie works closely with Jon Van Zyle, an outstanding Alaska wildlife artist who has illustrated ten of her children's picture books. Jon has lived in Alaska for 40 years and he has a deep love for the wilderness and wildlife of our state. He turns simple words into captivating paintings that authentically reflect the beauty of Alaska's environment.

Reviews

[Kelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alaska

[Sarah Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story was nothing to write home about, but the illustrations were some of the most gorgeous ever. Illustrations make me give it 5 stars

[Jessica Geist · Rating 5 out of 5]

The illustrations are gorgeous, and it's a great introduction to vernal ecosystems.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about a vernal lake that is located in Denali National Park. What a great way for children to see and hear how runoff from melting snow can turn a meadow into a lake creating a temporary water system, and then see it gradually disappear as the water seeps into the ground and evaporates. Turning once again, into a meadow. The illustrations are beautifully painted the animals and scenery are very realistic. Children will love the pictures! I love how the author put “Field Notes” at the back of the book giving further explanation about each animal, and insect that visit the vernal lake.

Instructional uses for Disappearing Lake:
1. Use this book to teach about vernal water systems.
2. Vocabulary: The field notes in the back of the book will help with this.
3. Have a discussion about the various animals and insects that are seen around or in the lake. Compare with vernal lakes or ponds around here to see if the same animals and insects visit both. Add to science journal explaining the similarities or differences.

[Alana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappearing Lake is a nonfiction story written by Debbie Miller. Disappearing Lake is located in Denali National Park in Alaska. Miller describes the wilderness, such as what nature looks like and what the animals are doing, as the lake gradually disappears. What I really enjoyed about this book was the illustrations that were created by Jon Van Zyle. The use of watercolor creates very lifelike and realistic images, where the illustrator uses the perfect blend of colors. I feel like this story would be great when read aloud to children because the reader can explain some of the words and concepts to children. This story could also lead to some great discussions, such as if any children have witnessed events that occurred throughout the book (such as seeing particular animals, watching the seasons change, etc.).