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Erime
Yutu ile büyükannesi karla kaplı, ücra bir köyde yaşamaktadır. Değişen iklim koşulları sebebiyle karlar ve buzlar aniden erimeye başlar ve her şey bir tehdide döner. Yutu, ava çıktığı sırada çöken bir buz yüzünden Kuzey Kutbu bozkırında mahsur kalır. Bu sırada köyde yaşayan Be de yeni okuluna uyum sağlamaya çalışmaktadır. Be'nin babası, bir petrol şirketindeki yeni işine başlamıştır. Ancak işinin arka planındaki çıkarlar bilinmemektedir. Bu iki çocuğun hayatları gizemli bir olaydan sonra kesişir ve önlerindeki bu iklim sorunuyla başa çıkmaya çalışırlar.
240 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2022
21 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Ele Fountain
11 books38 followersEle Fountain worked as an editor in children’s publishing where she was responsible for launching and nurturing the careers of many prize-winning and bestselling authors.
She lived in Addis Ababa for several years, where she was inspired to write Boy 87, her debut novel. Ele lives in what she describes as a “not quite falling down house” in Hampshire with her husband, two young daughters and lots of spiders.
She lived in Addis Ababa for several years, where she was inspired to write Boy 87, her debut novel. Ele lives in what she describes as a “not quite falling down house” in Hampshire with her husband, two young daughters and lots of spiders.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 25, 2023
An interesting intermediate/middle grade novel that touches on a number of topical issues without being overwhelming for it's target audience. Bea faces some nasty bullies in her new school and their harassment of her is horrible to read on page. Yutu is attempting to show his skills in the wild Arctic when the impact of climate change puts him a dangerous position. Our MCs meet in the most unlikely of scenarios and rely on each other for survival. This is an engaging read and I look forward to recommending it to NZ Y8 and Y9 students looking to get into reading.
May 13, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
In Melt we meet Yutu who lives with his grandmother in a tiny village in the Arctic. He is happy living the traditional way and wants to be seen as an adult and do grown-up things. His village is under threat as global warming is heating the oceans which in turn is melting the snow and ice, soon his village may be no more.
Bea lives in the city, a place she hasn’t been in long as her father moves around a lot for his job as a geologist for an oil company. She is having a hard time at her new school and is frustrated that her father is spending more and more time away from home working.
After a series of catastrophic events, Yutu and Bea end up meeting and having to save each other’s life.
What I love about author Ele Fountain’s work is that she can take hard-hitting issues and create a world where those issues are at the forefront without the reader realising it as her stories are filled with excitement, adventure, and friendship.
The book is written at the beginning in alternative chapters from Yutu and Bea until they meet and then they change to joint chapters. The writing is superb, the book is outstanding, and the characters were easy to visualise and realistic, especially as they tackle both separately and together some serious issues.
It was a joy to learn so much about the way of life of people living in the Arctic, the conditions they live in, how they survive and how the community pulls together. This is a book that will educate children about how others around the world live as well as open their eyes to global warming and the lengths some unscrupulous people/companies will go to when they put profits before ethics.
It truly is an amazing read and one that I can see making big waves this year. It is heart-warming and showcases the bravery of two teenagers who have no choice but to fight for survival and learn to trust one another.
In Melt we meet Yutu who lives with his grandmother in a tiny village in the Arctic. He is happy living the traditional way and wants to be seen as an adult and do grown-up things. His village is under threat as global warming is heating the oceans which in turn is melting the snow and ice, soon his village may be no more.
Bea lives in the city, a place she hasn’t been in long as her father moves around a lot for his job as a geologist for an oil company. She is having a hard time at her new school and is frustrated that her father is spending more and more time away from home working.
After a series of catastrophic events, Yutu and Bea end up meeting and having to save each other’s life.
What I love about author Ele Fountain’s work is that she can take hard-hitting issues and create a world where those issues are at the forefront without the reader realising it as her stories are filled with excitement, adventure, and friendship.
The book is written at the beginning in alternative chapters from Yutu and Bea until they meet and then they change to joint chapters. The writing is superb, the book is outstanding, and the characters were easy to visualise and realistic, especially as they tackle both separately and together some serious issues.
It was a joy to learn so much about the way of life of people living in the Arctic, the conditions they live in, how they survive and how the community pulls together. This is a book that will educate children about how others around the world live as well as open their eyes to global warming and the lengths some unscrupulous people/companies will go to when they put profits before ethics.
It truly is an amazing read and one that I can see making big waves this year. It is heart-warming and showcases the bravery of two teenagers who have no choice but to fight for survival and learn to trust one another.
May 12, 2021
Yutu lives with his grandmother on the fringes of the Arctic tundra. He finds it difficult to fit into the community as does his grandmother who still values and believes in the old ways of her people. And something is happening to the landscape around them. It is shifting and receding at a dangerous rate and if changes are not made soon then a community and all their history could be lost. But why should Yutu care? He’s had enough of this place anyway.
Hundreds of miles south, Bea is having to adapt to a new school but with the same group of manipulative, bullying girls. Her father, who she adores, works for an oil company but is deeply secretive about his research. Soon, there are signs that all is not well with him and they both fly north to a station in the snow to be part of a meeting that will change everyone’s futures forever.
Together Bea and Yutu are thrown together into a dark plot in which the land is being manipulated for greed and wealth. Can they embrace aspects of their past and their cultures in order to overcome the mountings obstacles ahead?
Fountain is an excellent writer. Deeply invested in rich character and clever, interweaving plot threads, she marries pace with tension so well; I found myself gripped from the start. Melt carries a strong ecocritical message yet Fountain never speaks down to her readership and rather invites contemplation in this clever, gripping story.
Hundreds of miles south, Bea is having to adapt to a new school but with the same group of manipulative, bullying girls. Her father, who she adores, works for an oil company but is deeply secretive about his research. Soon, there are signs that all is not well with him and they both fly north to a station in the snow to be part of a meeting that will change everyone’s futures forever.
Together Bea and Yutu are thrown together into a dark plot in which the land is being manipulated for greed and wealth. Can they embrace aspects of their past and their cultures in order to overcome the mountings obstacles ahead?
Fountain is an excellent writer. Deeply invested in rich character and clever, interweaving plot threads, she marries pace with tension so well; I found myself gripped from the start. Melt carries a strong ecocritical message yet Fountain never speaks down to her readership and rather invites contemplation in this clever, gripping story.
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December 12, 2020[Gifted]
Corrupt oil corporations, lost planes, and epic journeys of survival across the threatened Arctic - this is a brave and high-octane thriller about a boy and girl who are both effected by the fossil fuel industry in different ways. As well as carrying an important message, this is a thrilling action-adventure novel.
Corrupt oil corporations, lost planes, and epic journeys of survival across the threatened Arctic - this is a brave and high-octane thriller about a boy and girl who are both effected by the fossil fuel industry in different ways. As well as carrying an important message, this is a thrilling action-adventure novel.
July 2, 2021
Good message about climate change but poorly executed and written like it was by a child
April 10, 2022
For all the people who love adventure as well as fighting for survival will love this book 📖
July 4, 2021
Immersive, cautionary, thoughtful.
October 31, 2024
A well written book, with short chapters. There was a certain hook that kept me wanting to read. I liked the 2 protagonists, both not quite fitting in with their peers for different reasons. Plot, imaginative and some opportunities there for further discussion about climate change, greed, different ways of life, family relationships, friendships.
October 2, 2022
This book has such a lot going on and becomes so gripping that I couldn’t read it quickly enough. Bea moves around a lot with her Dad’s job, but their relationship is good and she deals with the lack of friends at school, even the exclusion she faces from the mean girls. She and her Mum don’t have much in common. Yutu lives with his grandmother in a village high up in the Arctic Circle, a simple life which he appreciates as home but can’t wait to escape from. When Bea’s ever more distant dad offers her a chance to fly north with him for a work project, and Yutu chances a night away by himself to prove his independence, their world collide and an exciting adventure ensues. Messages of climate change, corporate greed, indigenous cultures and friendship, plus the boy and girl combination, would make this a great class read aloud or group set for age 9+, year 5/6.
May 14, 2023
Melt by Ele Fountain is one of my favourite books of 2023 so far. It is an engaging and thrilling middle-grade adventure story that seamlessly weaves together important themes such as climate change and its devastating effects on the Arctic region, the beauty and diversity of the Arctic landscape, and the power of human connection and resilience.
In this novel, we follow Yutu and Bea, two preteen children who happen upon each other in dire circumstance. Throughout the book, the author does an excellent job of presenting the Arctic region as a complex and diverse environment. From the stunning natural beauty of the Northern Lights to the unique wildlife that inhabit the area, this book paints a vivid image of the Arctic that goes beyond the white landscape we all envision
The novel also raises awareness about the many anthropogenic activities that are putting the Arctic habitat in danger, both from an ecological point of view and the human’s who call it home. Despite the heavy themes, Melt is a captivating adventure story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is well-paced, and the characters are well-drawn.
One of my favourite aspects of the book is the lesson that things aren't always what they seem on the surface, and even adults you trust can misjudge a situation.
Overall, Melt is a perfect read for middle-grade readers who enjoy adventure novels. The book is informative, beautifully written, and hard to put down, making it an excellent choice for even reluctant readers. It also includes useful information about the lifestyles and climate issues facing people living in the Arctic region. Highly recommended!
In this novel, we follow Yutu and Bea, two preteen children who happen upon each other in dire circumstance. Throughout the book, the author does an excellent job of presenting the Arctic region as a complex and diverse environment. From the stunning natural beauty of the Northern Lights to the unique wildlife that inhabit the area, this book paints a vivid image of the Arctic that goes beyond the white landscape we all envision
The novel also raises awareness about the many anthropogenic activities that are putting the Arctic habitat in danger, both from an ecological point of view and the human’s who call it home. Despite the heavy themes, Melt is a captivating adventure story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is well-paced, and the characters are well-drawn.
One of my favourite aspects of the book is the lesson that things aren't always what they seem on the surface, and even adults you trust can misjudge a situation.
Overall, Melt is a perfect read for middle-grade readers who enjoy adventure novels. The book is informative, beautifully written, and hard to put down, making it an excellent choice for even reluctant readers. It also includes useful information about the lifestyles and climate issues facing people living in the Arctic region. Highly recommended!
November 27, 2022
Yutu is a young boy in a changing Arctic world.Global warming is affecting his village's way of life. There are no seals or caribou to hunt because the ice is melting earlier and earlier, and they are going further north. He lives with his grandmother who tries to live the old way of life, still in her hut not one of the modern homes built on the permafrost layer. But she tries hard to keep Yutu safe, his parents died when he was very young when a freak storm blew in as they travelled home, so she doesn't like him to venture too far alone.
Yutu asks to go on a hunting trip alone, but she says no. Yutu lies to her for the first time ever and goes anyway. But because of the climate conditions things don't go to plan.
Bea's family move a lot, pretty much every year, her father is a geologist for an oil company. He is good at finding areas to drill and is paid a lot. He flies small planes and has taught Bea to fly them. This is the thing that makes her happy. She doesn't fit in at school, it's difficult to make friends when you're always moving. But Dad's new job seems different, he's withdrawn and working all hours. One day he says he has to travel far to the North for work and asks Bea if she'd like to come to - missing school. But things are not what they seem and Bea has to leave him in pretty dramatic circumstances.
Her world collides with Yutu's at a remote cabin in the Acrtic. Can they help each other?
I've not read any of Ele's other books but this was bought for school as part of a Frozen Kingdom's topic for next term and it is brilliant. It show us in stark detail what can happen when greed (not theirs) overtakes everything else and what we are doing to this world of ours. Her writing and descriptive detail are excellent and the storyline and the way they intertwine is perfect.
The eco theme is perfect for the topic, and our eco team at school should be able to use it to kickstart their projects.
Yutu asks to go on a hunting trip alone, but she says no. Yutu lies to her for the first time ever and goes anyway. But because of the climate conditions things don't go to plan.
Bea's family move a lot, pretty much every year, her father is a geologist for an oil company. He is good at finding areas to drill and is paid a lot. He flies small planes and has taught Bea to fly them. This is the thing that makes her happy. She doesn't fit in at school, it's difficult to make friends when you're always moving. But Dad's new job seems different, he's withdrawn and working all hours. One day he says he has to travel far to the North for work and asks Bea if she'd like to come to - missing school. But things are not what they seem and Bea has to leave him in pretty dramatic circumstances.
Her world collides with Yutu's at a remote cabin in the Acrtic. Can they help each other?
I've not read any of Ele's other books but this was bought for school as part of a Frozen Kingdom's topic for next term and it is brilliant. It show us in stark detail what can happen when greed (not theirs) overtakes everything else and what we are doing to this world of ours. Her writing and descriptive detail are excellent and the storyline and the way they intertwine is perfect.
The eco theme is perfect for the topic, and our eco team at school should be able to use it to kickstart their projects.
November 28, 2024
I loved how the author has woven such an interesting story around the very topical themes of global warming, climate change and the corporate greed that plays a role in exacerbating both.
It's also not too overwhelming for the middle grade audience it targets because of the adventure the two teenage protagonists have together.
Yutu lives in an Arctic village where the traditional way of life is being preserved and Bea is lost after an impromptu trip with her dad ended up with her alone in the wilderness.
I enjoyed the glimpses we got of the culture and customs Yutu and his grandmother share in their village and the way the community comes together to help each other.
This is a very engaging middle grade read that is very readable at any age!
It's also not too overwhelming for the middle grade audience it targets because of the adventure the two teenage protagonists have together.
Yutu lives in an Arctic village where the traditional way of life is being preserved and Bea is lost after an impromptu trip with her dad ended up with her alone in the wilderness.
I enjoyed the glimpses we got of the culture and customs Yutu and his grandmother share in their village and the way the community comes together to help each other.
This is a very engaging middle grade read that is very readable at any age!
June 19, 2022
3.5 A simple text and plot, tackling some very important and complex issues. This would be great for raising awareness and promoting discussion with MG readers. The unique situation and setting provide an opportunity to explore the impact of climate change on humans, as well as wildlife. Something that is often overlooked.
September 25, 2024
Another super book from Ele Fountain. I enjoyed lots about this book, particularly the ending where everything couldn't quite be tied up in a bow.
January 27, 2021
Melt is a thrilling adventure set in the Arctic.
A little slow to get going, but, once you are in, you a taking on a daunting but beautiful journey with Yutu and Bea. With mysteries to solve and elements to overcome, the book piques your interest, and the ‘will they, won’t they’, moments keep you on the edge of your seat.
The main plot is layered over the background of climate change, animals losing their habitats, people losing their homes and heritage, as well as an insight into the oil industry and the negative effects on the environment from that. It introduces the subjects and constructs a thinking point quietly, but effectively, in the surroundings and circumstances of the main plot.
A wonderful read that is both exciting and thought provoking! Thoroughly enjoyed.
A little slow to get going, but, once you are in, you a taking on a daunting but beautiful journey with Yutu and Bea. With mysteries to solve and elements to overcome, the book piques your interest, and the ‘will they, won’t they’, moments keep you on the edge of your seat.
The main plot is layered over the background of climate change, animals losing their habitats, people losing their homes and heritage, as well as an insight into the oil industry and the negative effects on the environment from that. It introduces the subjects and constructs a thinking point quietly, but effectively, in the surroundings and circumstances of the main plot.
A wonderful read that is both exciting and thought provoking! Thoroughly enjoyed.
April 30, 2022
Look, it's not my favourite novel, but it serves its purpose as a balanced narrative with a really important message.
It actually surprised me how long it took for the two mc's, Yutu and Bea, to meet, however I think I liked it better this way as I got to understand them a lot better. They were strong characters in the story, which I found made up for the slow pace and general lack of events. My only critique is once they FINALLY met, it was like, insta-friendship; I get that it was a high-stress situation, but it didn't quite feel natural to me. Idk, maybe I'm just a bad person and I would have to think a bit before sharing some of my already minimal food supplies lol
This wasn't a "how to fix the environment" sort of book. I honestly think the goal of this book is to introduce kids to the idea of perspective; they might not see actively direct impacts of climate change in whatever community they live in, but reading a book with likeable characters has the potential to foster some awareness of what others experience.
The exploration of corporate greed was actually a really unique element to bring in at the end, but honestly it just left me feeling mad because all of my brain cells are shaking in the corner from the stress of school, so I can't develop intelligent thoughts about it just yet. Incoherent rage will have to suffice.
Rep; young First Nations teen (I think)
It actually surprised me how long it took for the two mc's, Yutu and Bea, to meet, however I think I liked it better this way as I got to understand them a lot better. They were strong characters in the story, which I found made up for the slow pace and general lack of events. My only critique is once they FINALLY met, it was like, insta-friendship; I get that it was a high-stress situation, but it didn't quite feel natural to me. Idk, maybe I'm just a bad person and I would have to think a bit before sharing some of my already minimal food supplies lol
This wasn't a "how to fix the environment" sort of book. I honestly think the goal of this book is to introduce kids to the idea of perspective; they might not see actively direct impacts of climate change in whatever community they live in, but reading a book with likeable characters has the potential to foster some awareness of what others experience.
The exploration of corporate greed was actually a really unique element to bring in at the end, but honestly it just left me feeling mad because all of my brain cells are shaking in the corner from the stress of school, so I can't develop intelligent thoughts about it just yet. Incoherent rage will have to suffice.
Rep; young First Nations teen (I think)
November 28, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. The dual perspective aspect was great and I would recommend it to others. I was hooked from the beginning and read it rlly quickly
August 17, 2021
Bea is new at school – again. Her so-called buddy for her first day turns into a bully, and no-one else seems interested in making friends. That’s okay, Bea tells herself. After all, who knew how long they’d stay in this town on the edge of the Arctic Circle?
Bea’s dad is a geologist, working for a huge oil company. It’s his job to assess areas and report on the benefits and risks of drilling there. He’s busy and often working late or away for days at a time, so when he is home, Bea loves spending time with her dad. They enjoy wilderness hikes, and outdoor activities together – not something her mum is into.
Bea’s favourite thing to do is to fly with her dad who is also a pilot. He has taught her everything she needs to be able to fly a small plane herself. She just needs to be a few years older to do it legally.
Bea is having a hard time at school and relishes an away trip with her dad, for his work. She will get to spend two whole days with him, away from all her worries. After only minutes at the remote airport miles from her new home, things go terribly wrong. She flees for her life.
Far from any civilisation, with no roads, or communication with the outside world possible, Bea finds a boy with severe hypothermia. She knows what to do, and soon he is conscious again. His name is Yutu. Luckily, he knows what to do to get home. He has been raised by his grandmother in the traditional ways of the area.
Temperatures well below freezing, unpredictable snow storms, a hungry polar bear and the fear that someone is after her, makes their journey fretful. Bea and Yutu believe that all be well, as long as they can just get home.
There is something even more terrible waiting for Bea however. Dad is missing, and the police are looking for him. Did he really do what they say he did? Bea doesn’t want to believe it.
Two characters with very different upbringings come together in a life or death situation. Both are trained in at least some first aid and survival techniques, ensuring the rising tension of the story.
Both Ele and Yutu are likeable characters with strong links to a family member and willingness to believe in them. The blend of modern and age-old traditional life is compelling as both realise the importance of what they have in their lives. This realisation brings a mutual respect between them, and a budding friendship.
An environmental theme is also important in the story, showing the effect of climate change on people, homes, animal’s habitat and food sources and unpredictable weather patterns. All of these issues are taking lives, both human and animal.
This thread of the story taught me things about both survival in the snow, and consequences of climate change on entire communities. An enjoyable read.
Bea’s dad is a geologist, working for a huge oil company. It’s his job to assess areas and report on the benefits and risks of drilling there. He’s busy and often working late or away for days at a time, so when he is home, Bea loves spending time with her dad. They enjoy wilderness hikes, and outdoor activities together – not something her mum is into.
Bea’s favourite thing to do is to fly with her dad who is also a pilot. He has taught her everything she needs to be able to fly a small plane herself. She just needs to be a few years older to do it legally.
Bea is having a hard time at school and relishes an away trip with her dad, for his work. She will get to spend two whole days with him, away from all her worries. After only minutes at the remote airport miles from her new home, things go terribly wrong. She flees for her life.
Far from any civilisation, with no roads, or communication with the outside world possible, Bea finds a boy with severe hypothermia. She knows what to do, and soon he is conscious again. His name is Yutu. Luckily, he knows what to do to get home. He has been raised by his grandmother in the traditional ways of the area.
Temperatures well below freezing, unpredictable snow storms, a hungry polar bear and the fear that someone is after her, makes their journey fretful. Bea and Yutu believe that all be well, as long as they can just get home.
There is something even more terrible waiting for Bea however. Dad is missing, and the police are looking for him. Did he really do what they say he did? Bea doesn’t want to believe it.
Two characters with very different upbringings come together in a life or death situation. Both are trained in at least some first aid and survival techniques, ensuring the rising tension of the story.
Both Ele and Yutu are likeable characters with strong links to a family member and willingness to believe in them. The blend of modern and age-old traditional life is compelling as both realise the importance of what they have in their lives. This realisation brings a mutual respect between them, and a budding friendship.
An environmental theme is also important in the story, showing the effect of climate change on people, homes, animal’s habitat and food sources and unpredictable weather patterns. All of these issues are taking lives, both human and animal.
This thread of the story taught me things about both survival in the snow, and consequences of climate change on entire communities. An enjoyable read.
August 1, 2021
I started my summer holidays off with this book, we will be using this book during the first week of term with our new year 7's (11-12year olds), so I needed to read this so that I can help plan some lessons based on it.
I was worried that the book would be really preachy and overly factual but I was very pleased to find that it was actually a really nice story based around 2 different yet likeable characters and their struggles with fitting in and finding purpose. There is some mention and focus on the fact that the ice is melting and therefore people's way of life is changing, but it was presented as more of a challenge that our characters faced within their lives and those around them, and I never felt like I was being moaned at or coerced into donating to something. It was handled subtly but still with meaning.
The story starts with alternating narrative, the chapters alternate between Yutu and Bea. Yutu lives in a small, remote village in the arctic, his parents died when he was a child and he has been brought up by his grandma. She is very over-protective and never seems to want Yutu to do anything. He goes to school, he studies and he helps round the house. But Yutu has dreams, if he studies hard enough he may be able to get into a college and leave his tiny town. But his determination to prove himself often gets him into trouble.
Bea has moved to another new school, her father's job means they move around a lot, and this is at least the tenth or twelfth move. Immediately she feels like she doesn't fit in, she somehow upsets the popular girls and suddenly life is miserable. On top of that, her father starts to act strange and she feels like she is being pushed away by everyone. Then her father invites her on a flight for a job, but when they get ambushed, Bea has to run and try to find help, that's when she meets Yutu.
After that all the chapters are narrated by Bea, i did miss Yutu's voice a bit, but it definitely made it easier to follow, having to focus on just one point of view.
I found the book very easy to read and follow, I liked the main characters and I felt myself getting invested in their story, I wanted to know what would happen and if they would survive. The book is not very long and I had finished in just over 2 hours. It was creative, moving and different and I certainly enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would.
I was worried that the book would be really preachy and overly factual but I was very pleased to find that it was actually a really nice story based around 2 different yet likeable characters and their struggles with fitting in and finding purpose. There is some mention and focus on the fact that the ice is melting and therefore people's way of life is changing, but it was presented as more of a challenge that our characters faced within their lives and those around them, and I never felt like I was being moaned at or coerced into donating to something. It was handled subtly but still with meaning.
The story starts with alternating narrative, the chapters alternate between Yutu and Bea. Yutu lives in a small, remote village in the arctic, his parents died when he was a child and he has been brought up by his grandma. She is very over-protective and never seems to want Yutu to do anything. He goes to school, he studies and he helps round the house. But Yutu has dreams, if he studies hard enough he may be able to get into a college and leave his tiny town. But his determination to prove himself often gets him into trouble.
Bea has moved to another new school, her father's job means they move around a lot, and this is at least the tenth or twelfth move. Immediately she feels like she doesn't fit in, she somehow upsets the popular girls and suddenly life is miserable. On top of that, her father starts to act strange and she feels like she is being pushed away by everyone. Then her father invites her on a flight for a job, but when they get ambushed, Bea has to run and try to find help, that's when she meets Yutu.
After that all the chapters are narrated by Bea, i did miss Yutu's voice a bit, but it definitely made it easier to follow, having to focus on just one point of view.
I found the book very easy to read and follow, I liked the main characters and I felt myself getting invested in their story, I wanted to know what would happen and if they would survive. The book is not very long and I had finished in just over 2 hours. It was creative, moving and different and I certainly enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would.
November 27, 2021
There was an ominous prologue before we split into a book of two parts, one told by Yuki and the other by Bea. Despite a slow start things started to pick up and by the time the two stories merged the action was galloping along with themes of bullying, espionage, conservation and differing lifestyles. However over-riding all that was the search for what was 'home'. Ele Fountain kept me turning the pages with the emphasis squarely on Yuki and Bea rather than any of the adults in the story - their thoughts, feelings and actions. A potential read aloud to introduce a range of subjects (as well as to simply enjoy).
July 1, 2024
sometimes you just have to let your father commit multiple felonies don't read too much into it
anyways required reading for acapenta it sucked let the glaciers melt if that's what it takes so i don't have to read this again
anyways required reading for acapenta it sucked let the glaciers melt if that's what it takes so i don't have to read this again
November 16, 2025
3.5* rounded up.
A thrilling middle grade adventure which also touches on the impact of climate change, bullying and not quite fitting in with your peers. The latter would be good starting points for discussion but the main focus of the book is a story of survival and adventure.
Bea has just moved to a new town because of her Dad's job. Again. She has given up trying to make friends as she is sure she will be moving again soon and she becomes the target of bullies at her new school. She has a distant relationship with her mum but is very close to her dad and adores flying in (and being taught to fly) planes with him.
Yutu lives in the Arctic Circle with his grandma. She resolutely sticks to the old ways of their people but climate change is making this harder and harder. Their traditional homes are sinking into the ground now it is no longer frozen solid and the seals and caribou are in short supply. Yutu is determined to have a better life and works hard at his education with that in mind. But he also wants to show his grandma that he is old enough to look after himself, and to help provide for the both of them.
The book starts off with alternating POV chapters of the two main characters. This works well to keep the reader's interest and the chapters are short enough that the other character remain fresh in the reader's mind. Later on this is dropped in favour of more chapters from Bea's perspective but they remain short and it keeps up the momentum.
Events conspire to have the two of them on the run and trying to survive in the arctic conditions. There are some good action scenes and moments of suspense. Some of the interactions between Bea and Yutu felt unrealistic considering they were strangers. But the descriptions of the conditions and how they responded to that were good.
The resolution of the mystery felt a little too sudden and neat. It was there as a vehicle to bring the two characters together rather than an important part of the story. I would have just liked it to have been developed a little more. Although I appreciate that could have easily added a lot to the book's length and I like it as is because it more approachable for many readers.
A thrilling middle grade adventure which also touches on the impact of climate change, bullying and not quite fitting in with your peers. The latter would be good starting points for discussion but the main focus of the book is a story of survival and adventure.
Bea has just moved to a new town because of her Dad's job. Again. She has given up trying to make friends as she is sure she will be moving again soon and she becomes the target of bullies at her new school. She has a distant relationship with her mum but is very close to her dad and adores flying in (and being taught to fly) planes with him.
Yutu lives in the Arctic Circle with his grandma. She resolutely sticks to the old ways of their people but climate change is making this harder and harder. Their traditional homes are sinking into the ground now it is no longer frozen solid and the seals and caribou are in short supply. Yutu is determined to have a better life and works hard at his education with that in mind. But he also wants to show his grandma that he is old enough to look after himself, and to help provide for the both of them.
The book starts off with alternating POV chapters of the two main characters. This works well to keep the reader's interest and the chapters are short enough that the other character remain fresh in the reader's mind. Later on this is dropped in favour of more chapters from Bea's perspective but they remain short and it keeps up the momentum.
Events conspire to have the two of them on the run and trying to survive in the arctic conditions. There are some good action scenes and moments of suspense. Some of the interactions between Bea and Yutu felt unrealistic considering they were strangers. But the descriptions of the conditions and how they responded to that were good.
The resolution of the mystery felt a little too sudden and neat. It was there as a vehicle to bring the two characters together rather than an important part of the story. I would have just liked it to have been developed a little more. Although I appreciate that could have easily added a lot to the book's length and I like it as is because it more approachable for many readers.
May 19, 2023
WHAT A GREAT MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVENTURE.! Book begins with Beatrice checking in for her first day of school, which she has done every year for five years. Gets off to awkward beginning by sitting in the wrong empty seat in the first class, followed by the mean girls to humiliate Bea publically at lunch. Bea lands in the principal’s office. Not a good start. After school there was a study session but they ditched Bea. No friends feeling alone. Dad asks her to go on a business trip with him. He is a geologist for an oil company whose job is to find places to drill for oil. It is a Super secret job especially due to climate change. This trip takes him to the arctic circle. Perfect weather all the way. When they land Dad has Bea stay in the plane while he runs into the office. Problem, dad doesn’t come right back out. Bea goers out of plane and goes to the office door. Bea can hear her dads loud voice the two men yelling at him to get down. She peaks in the window and sees them kicking and beating up her dad. What to do the men have seen her she takes off in the plane. Realizes she doesn’t have any gas and comes back to airport. Looks in the office and her dad is gone. Where? She is alone in this wilderness. Inside the office is someone laying on some pallets under rugs. His lips are blue. She nurses him back to life. He has hypothermia, she gives him her dads clothes to warm up. The two of them have to travel through the elements to get back to Sutu’s grandmother’s home. Bea learns the Inuit way of life and sees how climate change is directly affecting this entire region to possible extinction of the Inuit people. I support and recommend this book 100%. Special thanks to the following for allowing me to review this book early and to give my own honest opinion:
#NetGalley
#PushkinBookPublishing.
##Melt
#Publication Date: June 6, 2023
#NetGalley
#PushkinBookPublishing.
##Melt
#Publication Date: June 6, 2023
August 28, 2022
The story preludes with an historical event that presents the death of Yutu's parents in an u seasonal snow storm. Then the reader is cast into the present with the voice of 14 year old Yutu, torn between going away to universtiy and remaining to care for his aging grandma on the traditional lands they both love. They live in a remote, snow-bound village in the Arctic with their traditional way of life disappearing, threatened by warming temperatures. Yutu desperately wants to prove that he can maintain the old ways and sneaks off on a borrowed snowmobile to hunt seals. But the sea ice is melting and disaster strikes and he only just escapes with his life and is left stranded in the Arctic tundra.
Meanwhile Bea is trying to adapt to another new school where she is bullied and teased. Her father's new job as a geological surveyor with an oil company will hopefully mean the family can settle but not long after he starts, his behaviour becomes odd and secretive. Taking Bea unexpectedly on a flight to the Arctic he is attacked, Bea fleas, drawing on her limited flying experience to escape. Running out of fuel she crashes and she and Yutu team up.
Initially the story is told from the points of view of Bea and Yutu and then in tandem as they are brought together. Alongside this story of survival Fountain raises issues on climate change, its impact on traditional people and their lifestyle and corporate greed. The plot moved along well and will maintain interest with middle school readers. The story is fairly short and an easy read that would lend itself to shared reading in the classroom to support studies on environmental issues. Fountain's style flow well and the two perspectives add interest. A stronger development of secondary characters, Bea's parents in particular, would provide a stronger framework for the events after Bea returns home.
Meanwhile Bea is trying to adapt to another new school where she is bullied and teased. Her father's new job as a geological surveyor with an oil company will hopefully mean the family can settle but not long after he starts, his behaviour becomes odd and secretive. Taking Bea unexpectedly on a flight to the Arctic he is attacked, Bea fleas, drawing on her limited flying experience to escape. Running out of fuel she crashes and she and Yutu team up.
Initially the story is told from the points of view of Bea and Yutu and then in tandem as they are brought together. Alongside this story of survival Fountain raises issues on climate change, its impact on traditional people and their lifestyle and corporate greed. The plot moved along well and will maintain interest with middle school readers. The story is fairly short and an easy read that would lend itself to shared reading in the classroom to support studies on environmental issues. Fountain's style flow well and the two perspectives add interest. A stronger development of secondary characters, Bea's parents in particular, would provide a stronger framework for the events after Bea returns home.
February 16, 2021
Melt provides readers an insight into the impacts of climate change on remote villages within the Arctic and the indigenous people that still live within these remote locations. Yutu is a wonderful character that readers can relate to, and his inner battles regarding his heritage and his hopes for his future will resonate with many children. His loyalty and bravery make him a true friend and a character that readers will love.
Bea’s life could not be more different: her father has an important job that finds them jetting all over the world. But if she had one wish, it would be to find somewhere to call home and to be able to settle in one place. The constant changes in her life, and her father’s demanding job, will definitely be something that children may relate with, making the character real. She is incredibly courageous and fierce when protecting those she loves, willing to risk it all.
I really enjoyed this book, with wonderful descriptions of beautiful landscapes, it is a great book to take extracts from to support children when discussing setting descriptions. It was an easy read but with plenty of action to keep you hooked meaning it is accessible for most readers within Key Stage 2.
The multiple perspectives allow the reader to connect with both characters and also provides children the opportunity to experience this to improve their comprehension. Changes in narrator are proven to be a challenge for less confident readers but Melt provides children with the opportunity without it being overly complicated or daunting.
The story could also be used to complement wider learning about climate change, the Arctic and the impact of fossil fuels on communities.
Bea’s life could not be more different: her father has an important job that finds them jetting all over the world. But if she had one wish, it would be to find somewhere to call home and to be able to settle in one place. The constant changes in her life, and her father’s demanding job, will definitely be something that children may relate with, making the character real. She is incredibly courageous and fierce when protecting those she loves, willing to risk it all.
I really enjoyed this book, with wonderful descriptions of beautiful landscapes, it is a great book to take extracts from to support children when discussing setting descriptions. It was an easy read but with plenty of action to keep you hooked meaning it is accessible for most readers within Key Stage 2.
The multiple perspectives allow the reader to connect with both characters and also provides children the opportunity to experience this to improve their comprehension. Changes in narrator are proven to be a challenge for less confident readers but Melt provides children with the opportunity without it being overly complicated or daunting.
The story could also be used to complement wider learning about climate change, the Arctic and the impact of fossil fuels on communities.
May 14, 2023
Melt is a story with its heart in the right place. But in attempting to address issues as serious as climate change, corporate greed, the targeting of whistleblowers, the displacement of indigenous communities, bullying at school, and the importance of finding a home within oneself when home is not a physical place, it may have overreached its capacity in terms of what can be delivered in so few pages.
There were so many issues mentioned in passing that I would have liked to hear more about. Why was Bea being bullied at school? Why did her mother so easily believe the worst of her father? How did Bea know how to fly the plane? How did her first encounter with Yutu unfold? Why did she wait so long to get in touch with Yutu again after he basically saved her life?
It feels like in so many parts of the story, we step into some point at which action is taking place, but the background to what is happening is not sufficiently explained.
Some parts of the story, in my opinion, work well. Bea's daring escape with Yutu - and the polar bear encounter - were fun to read, and informative too. Some of the references to the natural world were magical. The description of the loss of homes and habitats was poignant.
Overall, this story is worth a read - particularly for young readers. And it would be significantly improved by a more even pace in terms of storytelling with a stronger focus on "show, don't tell". I'm giving it a 3.5 for good intentions, rounded up to 4 stars for the same reason.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
There were so many issues mentioned in passing that I would have liked to hear more about. Why was Bea being bullied at school? Why did her mother so easily believe the worst of her father? How did Bea know how to fly the plane? How did her first encounter with Yutu unfold? Why did she wait so long to get in touch with Yutu again after he basically saved her life?
It feels like in so many parts of the story, we step into some point at which action is taking place, but the background to what is happening is not sufficiently explained.
Some parts of the story, in my opinion, work well. Bea's daring escape with Yutu - and the polar bear encounter - were fun to read, and informative too. Some of the references to the natural world were magical. The description of the loss of homes and habitats was poignant.
Overall, this story is worth a read - particularly for young readers. And it would be significantly improved by a more even pace in terms of storytelling with a stronger focus on "show, don't tell". I'm giving it a 3.5 for good intentions, rounded up to 4 stars for the same reason.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
July 26, 2023
My second visit to the world of this writer, and world is definitely a key point – after dragging a child right across the planet for Wild (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), we're once again at a remote location. Yutu lives there, an Inuit or something like – a child living in the Arctic with his traditionally-minded gran, amongst friends who want to play video games all the day, and don't sit with Yutu's ambitious plans for leaving. Elsewhere we have Bea, the typical new-school-every-year child, forced to move due to her father's work, and this location could be the worst for bullying and stupid behaviour against her. The book shows the convoluted kind of way the two manage to combine, and the whole adventure of what happens when they do – skating on thin ice, as it were, in a world of a parent being under attack, polar bears, and white-outs…
Looking back the adventure seems slow in coming, but Fountain makes this all thoroughly readable. The chapters are as before short, the switches in focus regular and ones to only make the pages turn faster. Once more, too, everything is so well evoked it makes the whole seem utterly convincing, and/or well-researched. I feared this would be a right ol' harangue about global warming, too, but while the title certainly comes into it, there is very little time to discuss the reasons why. So we're left with a very engaging, distinctive drama, and two very likeable characters we can only hope success for. If you get to the end wondering why the prologue, you won't be alone, but it will come to you then, if not before – as will a lot of pleasure. A strong four stars.
Looking back the adventure seems slow in coming, but Fountain makes this all thoroughly readable. The chapters are as before short, the switches in focus regular and ones to only make the pages turn faster. Once more, too, everything is so well evoked it makes the whole seem utterly convincing, and/or well-researched. I feared this would be a right ol' harangue about global warming, too, but while the title certainly comes into it, there is very little time to discuss the reasons why. So we're left with a very engaging, distinctive drama, and two very likeable characters we can only hope success for. If you get to the end wondering why the prologue, you won't be alone, but it will come to you then, if not before – as will a lot of pleasure. A strong four stars.
May 19, 2021
Having read and been gripped by Ele Fountain’s prize winning novel, ‘Boy 87’, I was keen to read ‘Melt’. I was not disappointed! From page 2 I was riveted! Fountain’s ability to create excellent plot and set it in a location and community unknown to the reader is really unique – we learn so much in this book about Inuit village life, past and present, as well as the threats posed to the landscape – and the people and animals who have always lived in them – of the arctic circle – yet never feel preached at, or as if the desire to educate overtakes the powerful story.
Instead, we are quickly drawn into the worlds of both Bea and Yutu, one struggling with loneliness and battling with the disruption of constantly having to move from one country to another because of the transient nature of her father’s job as a geological expert advising oil companies, the other fighting for greater freedom as he grows up cared for by his traditionally minded and strongly protective grandmother in a village on the edge of the expanse of icey landscape north of Alaska being increasingly affected by climate change. The two teenagers’ worlds collide when Bea’s dad takes her on a work trip north, but things rapidly spiral out of control and Bea finds herself alone and in need of shelter.
Fountain writes simply yet compellingly, rendering this a real page turner. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it!
Instead, we are quickly drawn into the worlds of both Bea and Yutu, one struggling with loneliness and battling with the disruption of constantly having to move from one country to another because of the transient nature of her father’s job as a geological expert advising oil companies, the other fighting for greater freedom as he grows up cared for by his traditionally minded and strongly protective grandmother in a village on the edge of the expanse of icey landscape north of Alaska being increasingly affected by climate change. The two teenagers’ worlds collide when Bea’s dad takes her on a work trip north, but things rapidly spiral out of control and Bea finds herself alone and in need of shelter.
Fountain writes simply yet compellingly, rendering this a real page turner. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it!
May 10, 2022
Melt is a book about a girl called Bea who gets into trouble and ends up finding a boy called Yutu who she helps. Yutu then helps Bea with her predicament, and they go on adventures through the snowy Arctic. I think this book was good and is perfect for the age range it has been written for- YR7s and 8s. It portrays a clear message that we have to try and stop climate change because of all the negatives effects it has on the planet and how that can change many people's lives and break the bond between humans and nature that have been there from ancient times. I like how the book took a few chapters to properly introduce both characters as I feel like that helps the reader feel a more personal connection with them. The book is written in simple language but there were a few words I had to look up such as ‘caribou’ and ‘cloudberry’, so this book was a good way to add new words to my vocabulary and improve my knowledge of the world, especially the lives of people who live in the Arctic, which I had almost no knowledge on before this. The last page was amazing, and I couldn’t help but wonder what more I could be doing to help the planet. “...the bonds which connect people and nature are beginning to fray. Something precious beyond imagining, is coming apart. But it’s not too late to change that. Not yet.”
December 21, 2020
Traditional ways are being eroded just as much as the land in a remote community in the Arctic. It’s people are strongly linked to the land & the sea but as the ice melts & the waters rise, they are threatened like never before. Two children from different backgrounds are united by the need to survive and a determination to seek the truth. They are thrown together by coincidence but show the hope that a younger generation can give.
This is an important story that under the adventure elements is riddled with truths and the optimism that we, as a civilisation can change our ways. Shine a light on an important topic, in a manner that grabs attention, and it can have a major impact with younger readers and Fountain does this exceptionally well. Having been moved by Boy 87, I was really looking forward to reading Melt and I wasn’t disappointed. It was glorious in a way that was entertaining but alarming when you consider the plight of rural communities. Hopefully this is something that will make the target audience, pause, think and learn.
I received a copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
This is an important story that under the adventure elements is riddled with truths and the optimism that we, as a civilisation can change our ways. Shine a light on an important topic, in a manner that grabs attention, and it can have a major impact with younger readers and Fountain does this exceptionally well. Having been moved by Boy 87, I was really looking forward to reading Melt and I wasn’t disappointed. It was glorious in a way that was entertaining but alarming when you consider the plight of rural communities. Hopefully this is something that will make the target audience, pause, think and learn.
I received a copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
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