One Day In The Prairie - A Book Review

One Day In The Prairie
Written by Jean Craighead George
First published 1986
Recommended age 7+
A book review by Anna Kay Thomas

The third book in Jean Craighead George’s “One Day” series, which focuses on the events and individuals of a specific ecosystem during an approximately twelve-hour period, features a day in the ecology of the Oklahoma prairie. This book is based on the author’s own experience and research. Ms. George even included some of her resources for the reader to explore and expand their knowledge in the bibliography.

It starts at 6:55 AM on a September day on the Oklahoma prairie of a wildlife refuge. The reader follows not only the animals of the ecosystem and its history but also a boy, Henry, who has ventured into it to photograph a prairie dog performing their famous backflip. 

A strong theme of meteorology and how each animal senses and reacts to the development of weather is woven into a comprehensive breakdown of many organisms within the prairie. As a storm approaches, buffalo bulls challenge each other, prairie dogs whistle, tarantula wasps hunt, coyotes seek shelter, and native prairie grasses roll in the wind. 

Truly an impressive and detailed introduction to ecology that somehow fits into a chapter book in a way that is understandable for young readers and still enjoyable for the more experienced reader. This book is for those who want a close-up view of the world, who have a curiosity for the undisturbed ecosystems of Oklahoma, and who want to choose from a wide variety of new subjects in nature to study. Wishing you the best on your literary trek!

Reflective Question:

If you were able to observe any prairie creature, which one would you choose and what would you hope to see?

Photography by Anna Kay Thomas