STILL WATER: THE WONDERS OF PONDS, POOLS, WETLANDS, AND MORE, by Maciej Michno, Danio Miserocchi, Valentina Gottardi, translated by Sylvia Notini, illustrated by Valentina Gottardi, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, Aug. 18, 2026, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-14)
Discover the ecosystems found in ponds, puddles, swamps and more in Still Water, by Maciej Michno, Danio Miserocchi and Valentina Gottardi.
Human beings love babbling brooks and rushing rivers―but when we see water that stands still, we’ve historically called it unsafe, unhealthy, and even useless. Yet still water ecosystems like wetlands are teeming with life―and they’re critical to our planet’s survival. How? And why?
Still Water is a lushly illustrated journey through still water ecosystems, inviting readers to learn about their makeup, their inhabitants, their importance, and their future, including:
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- Why are still water ecosystems misunderstood?
- How do they actually contribute to the health of our world?
- What are the important differences between wetland environments?
- Who lives in wetlands, and how do animals like frogs and birds adapt to them for survival?
- How do places like peat bogs fight climate change?
- How do invasive species affect the balance of an ecosystem?
- What do we need to know about the future of ponds and wetlands?
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Translated from Italian by Batchelder Award winner Sylvia Notini, Still Water includes helpful backmatter with a glossary of terms and a link to the creators’ bibliography. —Synopsis provided by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
Still Water is a fascinating nonfiction book that can be read from beginning to end or piece by piece.
This well-researched book is divided into more than 25 sections ranging from microorganisms and algal blooms to newts, insects and fish. Sections feature main text, further information, diagrams and detailed illustrations. Information is clear and concise and offers lots of compelling tidbits that will keep readers engaged.
Valentina Gottardi’s ballpoint pen, acrylic paint and digital media illustrations are gorgeous. Her use of multiple styles adds interest and provides readers with a sense of place.
Still Water is an accessible read that will appeal to all ages. It’s visually stunning and would be a great addition to any home or school library.
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