Covered in vast expanses of ice and snow, and battered by gale-force winds, the Arctic is one of Earth’s most hostile habitats. And yet many amazing animals and plants thrive in these extreme conditions.

This book explores the Arctic, showing the plants and animals that survive here in the long dark winters and acute cold. Read about icebergs as tall as a 10-storey building and ice sheets as big as countries. See the stunning Northern lights stretching across the sky in glowing colours. Read about Arctic animals, including polar bears, Arctic foxes and wolverines, reindeer, narwhals and beluga whales. See how life has changed for the people who live and work in the Arctic. This book also explores some of the problems that affect the region, such as climate change and pollution.

Oliver Averill’s atmospheric illustrations provide a visual guide to one of our planet’s extraordinary polar regions. Perfect for children aged 7+

Franklin Watts is well-known for its high-quality and attractive books. We aim to give children of all abilities a life-long love of learning and reading.

Oliver Averill

Oliver Averill is an illustrator based in the West Midlands of the United Kingdom, strongly inspired by history. He graduated from Falmouth University with a degree in illustration and enjoys creating his imagery through textures and mark making, which help create atmosphere in his work. Oliver loves to work on children’s picture books, especially those with historical content.