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Scientists in the Field
The Snake Scientist (Scientists in the Field Series) by Sy Montgomery
Excellent Book
Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
200 people want to read
About the author
Sy Montgomery
60 books1,999 followersPart Indiana Jones, part Emily Dickinson, as the Boston Globe describes her, Sy Montgomery is an author, naturalist, documentary scriptwriter, and radio commentator who has traveled to some of the worlds most remote wildernesses for her work. She has worked in a pit crawling with 18,000 snakes in Manitoba, been hunted by a tiger in India, swum with pink dolphins in the Amazon, and been undressed by an orangutan in Borneo. She is the author of 13 award-winning books, including her national best-selling memoir, The Good Good Pig. Montgomery lives in Hancock, New Hampshire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 15, 2021
Although I do not believe that I am ever going to even remotely be considering snakes as favourite animals (and that I do still seem to have the annoying tendency to assume that serpents are somehow slippery and slimy to the touch, even though I full well know that this is actually not AT ALL the case), I definitely do very much appreciate that with her 2001 illustrated science tome The Snake Scientist Sy Montgomery presents not only a very decent introduction to snakes in general but also tries to textually demonstrate to her intended audience that serpents are actually pretty much amazing creatures (with interesting physiologies and such novel, such intriguing traits and abilities like hearing with their tongues and being incredibly sensitive to even the smallest of vibrations), are not really to be categorically feared (not inherently dangerous) and also of course that snakes act very much as important, as necessary spokes in many ecosystems, as they certainly do tend to keep in particular rodent and rabbit populations under control and manageable (and yes, I do really love it that Sy Montgomery’s text, that Snake Scientist repeatedly points out that one should always approach serpents with respect and not to ever attempt to harass or tease them).
And while in my humble and aesthetic opinion, some of Nic Bishop’s accompanying colour photographs visually appear just a trifle creepy (and in particular the pictures of thousands of garter snakes writhing around, attempting to mate) and albeit that I do consider Bob Mason’s work as a so-called snake scientist as interesting and important, but not something that would in fact personally intrigue and appeal to me enough to consider trying his type of of a job for myself, yes, I do think that Sy Montgomery has penned a nicely informative textual representation of serpents with The Snake Scientist, suitable for children from about the age of eight onwards but also to be considered for interested teenagers and adults who might want to know more about snakes but without the textual density and problematic overwhelmingness that often is part and parcel to too much scientific jargon (and which fortunately and appreciatively Sy Montgomery mostly refrains from textually utilising in Snake Scientist).
Now finally, with regard to supplemental teaching and learning information, although Sy Montgomery does provide at the end of The Snake Scientist a few book titles as suggestions for further reading (and that this is indeed better than there not being any bibliography whatsoever), I do wish that for one there were more than just four titles featured and for two that Montgomery would also feature both books and websites (and yes, that The Snake Scientist does not present any online resources at all is the main reason why my rating is four and not five stars).
And while in my humble and aesthetic opinion, some of Nic Bishop’s accompanying colour photographs visually appear just a trifle creepy (and in particular the pictures of thousands of garter snakes writhing around, attempting to mate) and albeit that I do consider Bob Mason’s work as a so-called snake scientist as interesting and important, but not something that would in fact personally intrigue and appeal to me enough to consider trying his type of of a job for myself, yes, I do think that Sy Montgomery has penned a nicely informative textual representation of serpents with The Snake Scientist, suitable for children from about the age of eight onwards but also to be considered for interested teenagers and adults who might want to know more about snakes but without the textual density and problematic overwhelmingness that often is part and parcel to too much scientific jargon (and which fortunately and appreciatively Sy Montgomery mostly refrains from textually utilising in Snake Scientist).
Now finally, with regard to supplemental teaching and learning information, although Sy Montgomery does provide at the end of The Snake Scientist a few book titles as suggestions for further reading (and that this is indeed better than there not being any bibliography whatsoever), I do wish that for one there were more than just four titles featured and for two that Montgomery would also feature both books and websites (and yes, that The Snake Scientist does not present any online resources at all is the main reason why my rating is four and not five stars).
March 8, 2018
Another excellent book by Sy Montgomery in the award-winning Scientists in the Field series. Here we find Montgomery at the Narcisse Wildlife Area in Canada trailing scientists who study the thousands of red-sided garter snakes that hibernate and breed there, all in one rocky den. I first read about these snakes in Bianca Lavies’ A Gathering of Garter Snakes, but this book told me even more. Montgomery describes the various experiments that scientists perform during the warm months when the snakes are active. I was surprised to learn how much we still don’t know about these critters. How do they know where to find the nearby marshes where they spend the summer and have their babies? Where do the babies spend their winters, since it’s known that they don’t travel to the rocky den until they’re two years old? I would love to travel up there and volunteer to help. Nic Bishop’s accompanying photos are, of course, exceptional, though one did sadden me. It was a picture of a dead snake upside down with its liver pecked out by a crow. Poor thing. (How do crows know exactly where the liver is in that long body?). I appreciated Montgomery’s note at the end of the book about respecting snakes and observing them from a distance, not disturbing them. The only fault I have to find with this book is that I wish it had been longer! Start with Lavies’ book and then read this one for a fascinating look at these slithery creatures.
March 23, 2012
This is part of the "Scientists in the Field" series, and another great collaboration by Sy Montgomery and Nic Bishop. I found it to be very fascinating. Although I did learn a bit more than I wanted about the mating habits of snakes - such as the formation of a "mating ball" of up to 100 males!? Yikes! How does the one female choose? Scientists still don't know for sure. And that's another thing I found very interesting in this book - mention of many things that still aren't known about snakes.
I like snakes, and I always like Nic Bishop's photographs. But even just seeing pictures of this many snakes all in one place gave me a bit of a shiver. If you don't like snakes, you might not enjoy reading this. But, if you don't mind looking at pictures of LOTS of snakes, there are some fascinating things to learn about snakes from the Snake Scientist!
Did you know:
* So-called flying snakes of Southeast Asia and the East Indies hurl themselves from treetops and glide through the air.
* Snakes can go for weeks or months without a meal.
* There are more reptiles species (5,970) than mammal species (4,050).
* Research so far suggests that female snakes prefer larger male snakes. Scientists don't yet know why.
I like snakes, and I always like Nic Bishop's photographs. But even just seeing pictures of this many snakes all in one place gave me a bit of a shiver. If you don't like snakes, you might not enjoy reading this. But, if you don't mind looking at pictures of LOTS of snakes, there are some fascinating things to learn about snakes from the Snake Scientist!
Did you know:
* So-called flying snakes of Southeast Asia and the East Indies hurl themselves from treetops and glide through the air.
* Snakes can go for weeks or months without a meal.
* There are more reptiles species (5,970) than mammal species (4,050).
* Research so far suggests that female snakes prefer larger male snakes. Scientists don't yet know why.
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December 20, 2013I think that you should read this book it is vary good it is about a scientist that is working with snakes and it techies you a lot of stuff about snakes.
October 15, 2018
This book in an area of Manitoba, Canada, north of Winnipeg--the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area--where thousands of red-sided garter snakes live and are studied by snake scientists. It was published in 1999, so perhaps they have learned more now (2018) than the author was able to write about. The scientists were studying things like:
How does a male snake know which snake is female?
How do the snakes find their way to the marshes?
How do the snakes find their way from the marshes back to the dens?
At the time this book was written, the general public was allowed to go to this wildlife area and actually pick up and hold the snakes, although they could not remove them from the refuge.
How does a male snake know which snake is female?
How do the snakes find their way to the marshes?
How do the snakes find their way from the marshes back to the dens?
At the time this book was written, the general public was allowed to go to this wildlife area and actually pick up and hold the snakes, although they could not remove them from the refuge.
August 5, 2020
Hibernation, estivation, dormancy, and now *brumation* during which the snakes' "blood gets as thick as mayonnaise."
Sy Montgomery writes well, as usual. This is another wonderful entry in the 'scientists in the field' series. For all ages - the youngest can learn a lot just from the pictures, and because this is an active field, there is information here that I didn't know even though I'm an adult fan of lesser-known critters.
Sy Montgomery writes well, as usual. This is another wonderful entry in the 'scientists in the field' series. For all ages - the youngest can learn a lot just from the pictures, and because this is an active field, there is information here that I didn't know even though I'm an adult fan of lesser-known critters.
December 19, 2013
I really liked this book because it tells you about snakes and what they do. I inferred on page 28 that how would they take a dead snake and turn it back to life by putting it in a bowl that was really cool though.
December 20, 2013
I did not like it because I thought that it didn't have a nice voice to it.
October 2, 2017
Summary: This book from the series Scientists in the Field, tells about the zoologist Bob Mason and his research on red-sided garter snakes. The book goes into the amazing event that happens once a year. Thousands of these garter snakes will hide away in dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management area in Manitoba, Canada. The book tells about their brief coming out in the throes of spring, when it begins to warm up outside. Mason uses this time to conduct thorough research on the lives and habits of these garter snakes. The researcher focused on the amazing utilization of pheromones that female garter snakes release. The research shows how this pheromone does everything from calling mates to leaving trails of scent in which they may use to get back to the dens.
Evaluation: This is a great book about the life and science of snakes, specifically garter snakes. It includes interesting facts about snakes, mostly the release and use of pheromones. The book gives many insights that most have neither known nor considered. It made me realize that snakes aren’t just creepy reptiles that you should steer clear from. Although it is an interesting read, I do not think this book would be good for students who are looking for a quick read. There are a lot of heavy details and words in which students should take much time to read and consider.
Teaching Idea: This would be a great book to learn strictly about snakes, including their habitats, characteristics, and unique skills. I would like to use it, along with other Scientists in the Field, to create a science project and presentation. Students could use the book to conduct research and create a presentation about different types of reptiles. They could also use this book to compare characteristics of garter snakes with other snakes and/or reptiles.
Evaluation: This is a great book about the life and science of snakes, specifically garter snakes. It includes interesting facts about snakes, mostly the release and use of pheromones. The book gives many insights that most have neither known nor considered. It made me realize that snakes aren’t just creepy reptiles that you should steer clear from. Although it is an interesting read, I do not think this book would be good for students who are looking for a quick read. There are a lot of heavy details and words in which students should take much time to read and consider.
Teaching Idea: This would be a great book to learn strictly about snakes, including their habitats, characteristics, and unique skills. I would like to use it, along with other Scientists in the Field, to create a science project and presentation. Students could use the book to conduct research and create a presentation about different types of reptiles. They could also use this book to compare characteristics of garter snakes with other snakes and/or reptiles.
October 19, 2008
My elder daughter developed a fascination with snakes a few months back, and we've been reading about elipids, vipers, Crictor, Verdi and Nagini ever since. At the library a few weeks ago, we discovered The Snake Scientist and read about the adventures of the really cool Dr. Bob Mason and his team of researchers who study the Red-Sided Garter Snake up in Alberta, Canada. The Red-Sided Garter Snake kind-of hibernates in big balls of snake in a few pits in Alberta. Staying in suspended animation in these pits allows them to stay alive during the sometimes cruel Canadian winter. Dr. Mason and his team study these snakes with the goal of learning a lot more about all snakes and have succeeded in discovering that snakes do emit pheromones.
This book is so great because it doesn't talk above grade school understanding but also doesn't dumb down the science. I learned alot from this title and was as engaged in reading it as Esme was. It also suggested further reading if this book grabbed you, and having read several of the recommended titles with Esme as well, I can concur with their suggestions.
Who wouldn't like this book? Anyone who is already an expert on snakes or a kid who is reading above a sixth grade reading level; they might want to give it a cursory glance, but will probably feel beyond this title.
Esme feels that this book helped her learn alot about these snakes and now she wants to go to Oregon State University so she can work with Dr. Bob. It's a pretty good book that can make this budding dress designer cum princess want to become a herpetologist, even if only for a short time.
This book is so great because it doesn't talk above grade school understanding but also doesn't dumb down the science. I learned alot from this title and was as engaged in reading it as Esme was. It also suggested further reading if this book grabbed you, and having read several of the recommended titles with Esme as well, I can concur with their suggestions.
Who wouldn't like this book? Anyone who is already an expert on snakes or a kid who is reading above a sixth grade reading level; they might want to give it a cursory glance, but will probably feel beyond this title.
Esme feels that this book helped her learn alot about these snakes and now she wants to go to Oregon State University so she can work with Dr. Bob. It's a pretty good book that can make this budding dress designer cum princess want to become a herpetologist, even if only for a short time.
November 25, 2012
The Snake Scientist
By Sy Montgomery
Montgomery, S., & Bishop, N. (2003). The snake scientist. Sandpiper.
1. Informational Junior Book
2. "The Snake Scientist" is about using science to collect data on unsolved characteristic of snakes, This book takes you on a journey through the field discovering new information about the red sided garter snakes.
3. Accuracy
b. The book is highly informational and contain a lot of accurate information. It contains a great amount of information about the red sided garter snake as well as pondering questions that are still unanswered. The information comes across as detailed and well explained and is directly sited to sources at the end of the book. Since snakes are an interest of mine, it seems to me that his information could be a tad bit outdated and a new scientist in the field about snakes should be made some time in the future.
c. My favorite piece of accurate information that I found reading is found on page 16 saying that "reptiles are more successful than mammals; even today there are more retire species than mammal species in the world today."
4. This is a great book for the classroom. It can be a great addition to a class library, which boys would love to pick up and read. This book could also be integrated into science lessons about snakes. their habitat, eating habits, or characteristics. The scientist in the field series is great for the classroom and really provides a lot of factual information for children to read about some of their favorite scientific topics or animals.
By Sy Montgomery
Montgomery, S., & Bishop, N. (2003). The snake scientist. Sandpiper.
1. Informational Junior Book
2. "The Snake Scientist" is about using science to collect data on unsolved characteristic of snakes, This book takes you on a journey through the field discovering new information about the red sided garter snakes.
3. Accuracy
b. The book is highly informational and contain a lot of accurate information. It contains a great amount of information about the red sided garter snake as well as pondering questions that are still unanswered. The information comes across as detailed and well explained and is directly sited to sources at the end of the book. Since snakes are an interest of mine, it seems to me that his information could be a tad bit outdated and a new scientist in the field about snakes should be made some time in the future.
c. My favorite piece of accurate information that I found reading is found on page 16 saying that "reptiles are more successful than mammals; even today there are more retire species than mammal species in the world today."
4. This is a great book for the classroom. It can be a great addition to a class library, which boys would love to pick up and read. This book could also be integrated into science lessons about snakes. their habitat, eating habits, or characteristics. The scientist in the field series is great for the classroom and really provides a lot of factual information for children to read about some of their favorite scientific topics or animals.
December 9, 2011
1. Informational
2. Bob, the snake scientist, gives a detailed description of the intriguing lives of snakes.
3. A- This is a great book for children that are interested in snakes. The images and details are both informative and engaging.
B- I should start by stating the fact that I am terrified of snakes. The book was good and appropriate for young learners because of the fun facts and kid friendly language. I thought some of the information was borderline inappropriate for younger readers. 5th and 6th graders may do better than k-4 because of the information on the reproductive cycle. It really depends on their maturity level. I think it is a strong book because it specifically focuses on snakes, instead of the broader world of reptiles. I also thought the diversity of the people in the pictures was extremely appropriate.
C- The examples I would like to point out are images. There are older people, young people, males, females, and all of them are of different backgrounds. I thought it would be beneficial and encouraging for students to observe all different types of people investigating the lives of snakes!
4. This could be tied into a number of science lessons, such as, snakes, reptiles, habitats, or the life cycle of different species. Teachers could have students use this book as a resource for a research assignment.
2. Bob, the snake scientist, gives a detailed description of the intriguing lives of snakes.
3. A- This is a great book for children that are interested in snakes. The images and details are both informative and engaging.
B- I should start by stating the fact that I am terrified of snakes. The book was good and appropriate for young learners because of the fun facts and kid friendly language. I thought some of the information was borderline inappropriate for younger readers. 5th and 6th graders may do better than k-4 because of the information on the reproductive cycle. It really depends on their maturity level. I think it is a strong book because it specifically focuses on snakes, instead of the broader world of reptiles. I also thought the diversity of the people in the pictures was extremely appropriate.
C- The examples I would like to point out are images. There are older people, young people, males, females, and all of them are of different backgrounds. I thought it would be beneficial and encouraging for students to observe all different types of people investigating the lives of snakes!
4. This could be tied into a number of science lessons, such as, snakes, reptiles, habitats, or the life cycle of different species. Teachers could have students use this book as a resource for a research assignment.
September 26, 2017
Summary: This nonfiction narrative informs readers of the amazing lives of snakes. Readers will learn about numerous different species of snakes and how they live, eat, and mate. These mysterious animals serve as beautiful specimens for scientific research studies. This book outlines the experimental process and how scientists in the field are able to continue learning new information about snakes from all around the world.
Evaluation: In order to learn about snakes and how they function in the wild a group of researchers must go in the field and capture their victims. Once the snakes have been removed from their natural environment the scientist can begin marking their scales and studying their behavior. This process takes weeks to complete and the snakes are fed their appropriate diet in the meantime. This book is a great read for anyone interested in learning more about the lives of snakes.
Teaching Point: This informational narrative book brings the world of snakes to life. Readers are informed about different species and their purpose to their ecosystems. This book can be used in the elementary classroom as an integration of English language arts and science. It can be used in a whole group setting, small group setting or independently. This is also a great selection as an interesting book for students who enjoy nonfiction narratives.
Evaluation: In order to learn about snakes and how they function in the wild a group of researchers must go in the field and capture their victims. Once the snakes have been removed from their natural environment the scientist can begin marking their scales and studying their behavior. This process takes weeks to complete and the snakes are fed their appropriate diet in the meantime. This book is a great read for anyone interested in learning more about the lives of snakes.
Teaching Point: This informational narrative book brings the world of snakes to life. Readers are informed about different species and their purpose to their ecosystems. This book can be used in the elementary classroom as an integration of English language arts and science. It can be used in a whole group setting, small group setting or independently. This is also a great selection as an interesting book for students who enjoy nonfiction narratives.
December 7, 2012
1. Genre: Junior Book: Informational
2. This book follows the work of Dr. Robert Mason a zoologist on his research into the red sided garter snake in Manitoba, Canada. The doctor performs many experiments on these snakes and records his findings.
3. (A) Area for comment: Accuracy
(B) This book is very informational and covers a lot of material. The accuracy in this book is fact and it shows what the doctor has done during his research. The pictures are astounding and the information makes snakes seem very real even though you're simply reading along. The author engages the readers from the very beginning of this book.
(C) The beginning of this book really catches you as a reader. It states "You hear them before you see them. On a quiet day, as you approach one of the dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area in Manitoba, Canada, you can hear a rustling like wind in dry leaves. It's the sound of thousands of slithering snakes." This is a great way to begin a story and for snake lovers it's an immediate kill.
4. This book could be used in any science lesson. The facts and photographs used in this book would be great to use for lessons on animals and their home geography.
2. This book follows the work of Dr. Robert Mason a zoologist on his research into the red sided garter snake in Manitoba, Canada. The doctor performs many experiments on these snakes and records his findings.
3. (A) Area for comment: Accuracy
(B) This book is very informational and covers a lot of material. The accuracy in this book is fact and it shows what the doctor has done during his research. The pictures are astounding and the information makes snakes seem very real even though you're simply reading along. The author engages the readers from the very beginning of this book.
(C) The beginning of this book really catches you as a reader. It states "You hear them before you see them. On a quiet day, as you approach one of the dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area in Manitoba, Canada, you can hear a rustling like wind in dry leaves. It's the sound of thousands of slithering snakes." This is a great way to begin a story and for snake lovers it's an immediate kill.
4. This book could be used in any science lesson. The facts and photographs used in this book would be great to use for lessons on animals and their home geography.
November 27, 2012
Citation: The Snake Scientist, by Sy Montgomery. (Sandpiper, 2001). 48p. Informational.
Genre: Junior Book - Informational
Summary: The book explains the background of a scientist who is known for investigating red-sided garter snakes.
A. One of the best things about the book is the photographs of the snakes and the different facts about red-sided garter snakes.
B. I absolutely loved this book! I am generally not a fan of snakes; however, Dr. Robert Mason was very intriguing with all of his information about the red-sided garter snakes that live in Canada. This book is great for students to learn different facts about animals.
C. For example, on page 4 Dr. Mason gives several facts about the red-sided garter snakes. “For about six weeks each April and May, thousands of these harmless snakes awaken from eight months’ sleep beneath the earth. They pour out of the pits like water-a river of writhing reptiles.”
Curriculum Connection: I think this book would be great for elementary and middle school students. It provides so much information and fascinating facts about the red-sided garter snake any student or adult would enjoy it.
Genre: Junior Book - Informational
Summary: The book explains the background of a scientist who is known for investigating red-sided garter snakes.
A. One of the best things about the book is the photographs of the snakes and the different facts about red-sided garter snakes.
B. I absolutely loved this book! I am generally not a fan of snakes; however, Dr. Robert Mason was very intriguing with all of his information about the red-sided garter snakes that live in Canada. This book is great for students to learn different facts about animals.
C. For example, on page 4 Dr. Mason gives several facts about the red-sided garter snakes. “For about six weeks each April and May, thousands of these harmless snakes awaken from eight months’ sleep beneath the earth. They pour out of the pits like water-a river of writhing reptiles.”
Curriculum Connection: I think this book would be great for elementary and middle school students. It provides so much information and fascinating facts about the red-sided garter snake any student or adult would enjoy it.
April 28, 2014
• Genre in which book belongs and intended age range
The genre in which this book belongs is informational. The intended age range is 3rd grade through 5th grade.
• Simple one or two sentence summary
This book is about a scientist named Bod and his studies on garter snakes.
• Curriculum connection
This book can be used for research on snakes and what is being done to protect snakes. This book also provides many facts about garter snakes so it can be used in the classroom for Bloom’s level in which recall is used.
• Your opinion or reaction to the book
I enjoyed reading the book even though the book was about snakes. I love finding new facts about science and I appreciate the author of this book.
• Visual appeal of book
The author has a picture of the garter snake on the front of the book and many pictures throughout the book. These pictures are a representation of the many topics that were covered within the book.
The genre in which this book belongs is informational. The intended age range is 3rd grade through 5th grade.
• Simple one or two sentence summary
This book is about a scientist named Bod and his studies on garter snakes.
• Curriculum connection
This book can be used for research on snakes and what is being done to protect snakes. This book also provides many facts about garter snakes so it can be used in the classroom for Bloom’s level in which recall is used.
• Your opinion or reaction to the book
I enjoyed reading the book even though the book was about snakes. I love finding new facts about science and I appreciate the author of this book.
• Visual appeal of book
The author has a picture of the garter snake on the front of the book and many pictures throughout the book. These pictures are a representation of the many topics that were covered within the book.
November 3, 2013
The Snake Scientist by Sy Montgomery is about Dr. Robert Mason a scientist at Oregon State University who has devoted his life to studying snakes and the worlds largest snake concentration in Manitoba, Canada. His love for snakes and interest in this phenomenon have gotten him the title of the Snake Scientist. This book educates readers about the concentration in Manitoba of snake dens and the experiments he does, along with information about snakes. The photographs really show readers what Mason and his team do, along with the different types and characteristics of snakes. Although the book is long, it well written and kid friendly. The back of the book includes important information including unsolved snake mysteries, information about the snake dens, further reading, and an index. This book would be a great addition to any classroom or home for a fun informational non-fiction read.
February 26, 2012
SImilar to the Tarantula Scientist. Sy Montgomery provides much detail in his non fiction book about snakes. This book doesn"t just throw details at you but, sets a perfect setting to make the reader feel like he is with these scientist searching as well. "You hear them before you see them. On a quite day, as you approach one of the dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area in Manitoba, Canada." Is how he starts out this text. The vivid gripping pictures by Nic Bishop bring this text to life. The photographs are big and beautiful and are on every page. This is the perfect book for upper elementary but, can be used for any age.
Want to read
December 16, 2007Chris, I found this in the library the other day. The photos are fantastic. It looked like a great introduction to your field for kids.
June 18, 2010
A little long but the kids thoroughly enjoyed it. Great book.
February 8, 2018
inspired by this tbh
December 1, 2019
summary- this book is about a guy named Robert Mason who has been studying the re-development of red-sided garter snakes and how they have started to repopulate themselves. They got this names because they all have 3 longitudinal stripes, one in the center of the back and one on each lower side of the body. It talks about the importance of these snake and what they do for the land. They hibernate during the winter and when they feel in-danger they try to hide in water. they release a foul-smelling substance t repel the predator. All of this information comes from Mason because he has been studying these snakes for over 15 years and see how they adapt to certain lifestyles.
evaluation- this was a very interesting book for someone that may like to learn more about snakes as well as this certain type of snake. It included great pictures that were taken throughout Masons' research. it also includes great factual information that was found straight from the main researcher and not passed down from through many people.
teaching point- this is great to give to a student that may have an interest in snakes. This will help them not only be able to learn about the snake but also be able to better read this type of scientific field style of book.
evaluation- this was a very interesting book for someone that may like to learn more about snakes as well as this certain type of snake. It included great pictures that were taken throughout Masons' research. it also includes great factual information that was found straight from the main researcher and not passed down from through many people.
teaching point- this is great to give to a student that may have an interest in snakes. This will help them not only be able to learn about the snake but also be able to better read this type of scientific field style of book.
April 22, 2020
I have always been terrified of snakes and insects. This book made me feel anxious seeing little kids and adults carrying snakes. Or seeing the pile of snakes just freaked me out. Having read the book explained to me more about how red-sided garter snakes are. Even though they are harmless I still feel like I would freak out if I saw one. I thought it was interesting to know that there is a specific place in Canada where people go to see them. Finding out that there is 18,000 snakes in those pits is crazy. A question I came up with while finishing the book was. Since this book is from the late 90s has the population of these snakes decreased since the climate has been changing. I would most definitely incorporate this book in a science class in middle school. The reason why I chose middle school is so that they can conduct an experiment similar to the one the book used. Instead of using snakes I could use bugs or insects. This experiment will help students feel like they are scientist just like Bob Mason. This book is an amazing resource for students and others to learn about snakes, learn about the red-sided garter snake, and gain interest on learning more about science.
December 10, 2019
This scientists in the filed book focuses on the reemergence and the habitat of red-sided garter snakes that follows the findings of zoologist, Dr. Robert Mason. The research is done in Manitoba, Canada. He describes the experiments that are performed on snakes. I liked reading this book because it includes facts about snakes and is very informational. It does take time to read because of the vocabulary used. This book would be great to introduce when learning about different reptiles. In my kindergarten placement, they learn about different animals every week. When learning about retiles this would be good to introduce to them and have them determine the snake’s habitat, characteristics, and any other information they thought was interesting that makes them different from other types of animals.
November 20, 2019
The Snake Scientist follows the research of Oregon State Univesity zoologist Bob Mason as he observes the incredible spectacle of garter snakes waking up from an 8-month hibernation. It is the single biggest collection of snakes in the world and is something that must be seen to be believed. Many people are scared of snakes and for good reason but this book sheds light on why these are some of the most interesting creatures on earth. This book is filled with information and detailed pictures resulting in an Orbis Pictus Honor in 2000. Personally I didn't find the book very interesting but it's hard for me to get into a non-fiction book on a topic I am not already passionate about.
December 11, 2023
"The Snake Scientist" by Sy Montgomery is an interesting book about snakes. It talks about how scientists study snakes and shares all kinds of cool facts about them. The author, Sy Montgomery, writes in a way that's easy to understand, even for kids. The book has lots of details and stories about snakes, making it fun to read. Additionally, there are pictures of snakes on every page of the book. This book is a great way to explore the world of snakes for all different ages.
January 30, 2023
Sy Montgomery is a whiz at making science seem concrete and attainable for middle grade kids. The photos were l relevant, the text was short, and the concepts were crisper and more relevant seeming than the average kid animal book.
September 20, 2022
Talks about the large dens of harmless garter snakes in Manitoba Canada and how a scientist studies them - helping them, nature, and science.
June 17, 2015
How would you feel if you came upon a pit filled with 18,000 snakes? Sy Montgomery opens her book The Snake Scientist by asking us to consider this possibility:
“You hear them before you see them. On a quiet day, as you approach one of the dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area in Manitoba, Canada, you can hear a rustling like wind in dry leaves. It’s the sound of thousands of slithering snakes” (3).
This engaging opening introduces a discussion of snakes in all their glory, as well as a detailed observation of the scientists who work with them. The work of Bob Mason, a snake researcher, is profiled in the book. Montgomery documents his experiments, investigational techniques, and passion for snakes with the journalistic flair of a feature article in a glossy-paged science magazine. School Library Journal notes that the “lively text communicates both the meticulous measurements required in this kind of work and the thrill of new discoveries” (Amazon.com 2004).
Among some of the discoveries profiled in the book are how snakes are able to scent out a female snake in a pile of hundreds of males for mating (the answer – “snake juice” or pheromones), and how snakes are able to find their way back to dens in time for fall. Scientists are shown conducting experiments in these areas, and children are able to get a sense of the work involved as well as a sense of the principles of the scientific method. The breeding and eating habits of snakes are among some of the more general information that is included.
Montgomery often directly addresses the reader, making him feel as if he is actively participating in the book. A discussion of some of the fascinating properties of snakes is one of the book’s many strengths – including a host of fascinating details and trivia that will make children feel like informed insiders about these “amazing and mysterious animals”:
“Snakes’ abilities seem almost magical. They can swallow prey bigger than their own heads by the incredible feat of unhinging their jaws from their skulls. Some snakes, such as vipers, have evolved poisonous saliva – venom – to kill their prey; others, constrictors like boas and anacondas, literally hug their food to death” (15).
Montgomery also notes that snakes “hear” with their tongues and are amazingly quick and agile.
Montgomery also uses humor and enthusiasm to enliven her book. She includes anecdotes from the experimentation process, noting that errant pillowcases full of squirming snakes sometimes cartwheel down the stairs while the scientists are working. Inclusions of additional information, such as the rules of snake etiquette and a listing of snake-related mysteries serve as food for thought. Although the book mostly conforms to nonfiction standards, Montgomery’s voice is not entirely dispassionate. Through the use of many adjectives and superlatives, her enthusiasm for snakes is both obvious and contagious. Uses of literary devices such as alliteration help keep the pages turning quickly.
Documentation is provided for Montgomery’s research in the form of acknowledgements and suggested reading, allowing readers to check her accuracy and do follow-up reading for their own interests. It should also be noted that Bob Mason is an important and reputable scientist in the field, who has won awards and made many important snake related discoveries.
The inclusion of many colorful photographs document the research and experimentation process and provide up-close and personal looks at snakes in their natural environment. Montgomery often refers to the photos in her text, describing them directly, as well as using captions to label them. The photos help the reader to feel more involved in the process being described as well as to develop a greater appreciation for the mysterious nature of snakes.
“You hear them before you see them. On a quiet day, as you approach one of the dens at the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area in Manitoba, Canada, you can hear a rustling like wind in dry leaves. It’s the sound of thousands of slithering snakes” (3).
This engaging opening introduces a discussion of snakes in all their glory, as well as a detailed observation of the scientists who work with them. The work of Bob Mason, a snake researcher, is profiled in the book. Montgomery documents his experiments, investigational techniques, and passion for snakes with the journalistic flair of a feature article in a glossy-paged science magazine. School Library Journal notes that the “lively text communicates both the meticulous measurements required in this kind of work and the thrill of new discoveries” (Amazon.com 2004).
Among some of the discoveries profiled in the book are how snakes are able to scent out a female snake in a pile of hundreds of males for mating (the answer – “snake juice” or pheromones), and how snakes are able to find their way back to dens in time for fall. Scientists are shown conducting experiments in these areas, and children are able to get a sense of the work involved as well as a sense of the principles of the scientific method. The breeding and eating habits of snakes are among some of the more general information that is included.
Montgomery often directly addresses the reader, making him feel as if he is actively participating in the book. A discussion of some of the fascinating properties of snakes is one of the book’s many strengths – including a host of fascinating details and trivia that will make children feel like informed insiders about these “amazing and mysterious animals”:
“Snakes’ abilities seem almost magical. They can swallow prey bigger than their own heads by the incredible feat of unhinging their jaws from their skulls. Some snakes, such as vipers, have evolved poisonous saliva – venom – to kill their prey; others, constrictors like boas and anacondas, literally hug their food to death” (15).
Montgomery also notes that snakes “hear” with their tongues and are amazingly quick and agile.
Montgomery also uses humor and enthusiasm to enliven her book. She includes anecdotes from the experimentation process, noting that errant pillowcases full of squirming snakes sometimes cartwheel down the stairs while the scientists are working. Inclusions of additional information, such as the rules of snake etiquette and a listing of snake-related mysteries serve as food for thought. Although the book mostly conforms to nonfiction standards, Montgomery’s voice is not entirely dispassionate. Through the use of many adjectives and superlatives, her enthusiasm for snakes is both obvious and contagious. Uses of literary devices such as alliteration help keep the pages turning quickly.
Documentation is provided for Montgomery’s research in the form of acknowledgements and suggested reading, allowing readers to check her accuracy and do follow-up reading for their own interests. It should also be noted that Bob Mason is an important and reputable scientist in the field, who has won awards and made many important snake related discoveries.
The inclusion of many colorful photographs document the research and experimentation process and provide up-close and personal looks at snakes in their natural environment. Montgomery often refers to the photos in her text, describing them directly, as well as using captions to label them. The photos help the reader to feel more involved in the process being described as well as to develop a greater appreciation for the mysterious nature of snakes.
December 19, 2013
i relay liked this book my favorite part was the venomous snake that slithers away.
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