Abigail Hansen LIS 721 2/19/13 Picture Book Review

Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw. Great Ice Bear: the Polar Bear and the Eskimo. Illustrated by Anne Wertheim. Morrow Junior Books, 1999. Print. 40 pages. ISBN: 0-688-13768-7; PLB: $15.89

What do you know about polar bears? This informational book authored by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent and illustrated by Anne Wertheim explores polar bears and their relationship with Eskimos. Patent provides facts about where the bears live geographically, describes their habitats, and explains details like how big polar bears are compared to other bears. A short index is provided; however, a reference list is not included. The illustrations are beautiful fullcolor acrylics with subtle blue tones. Patent recognizes that the term Eskimo is derogatory and that Eskimos prefer to be called Inuit. Yet, the author continues to use the term Eskimo for convenience. This book demonstrates little regard and respect for a native people. Occasional sentences acknowledge that the pictures do not represent what the Inuit culture currently is. The illustrators choices are baffling. The Inuit are portrayed as a spear-wielding people who continually hunt and harm the otherwise peaceful polar bear. The author continually emphasizes how human-like polar bears are. Chapter three is entitled the Ice Bears People. This implies that the polar bear has dominion over the Inuit. It is gravely insulting to insinuate that nature rules a people. This book is aimed at boys and girls from 3rd through 5th grade in a social studies or science class. This book is not recommended. The quality of artistry in the illustrations is the only redeeming aspect.

Excellent critique of a dated and problematic book.