SWIRL BY SWIRL: SPIRALS IN NATURE

Joyce Sidman. 2011. SWIRL BY SWIRL: Spirals in Nature. New York; NY: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children. ISBN: 9780547315836

In the book, Swirl by Swirl written by Joyce Sidman and illustrated by Beth Krommes, the author and illustrator blend together words and picture to seamlessly demonstrate the simple but complex beauty of the spiral in nature.  This book of poetry could also span across the curriculum with so much scientific information on nature in a variety of forms.  The poem describes a spiral as “a snuggling shape” that “fits neatly in small places” serving many purposes.  The illustrations show the spirals in the underground dwelling of a variety of woodland creatures.  The spiral coils with anticipation waiting for  “…a chance to expand” showing the range of motion and activity in the forest.  The book continues through areas such as ocean, mountains and plants showing the utilitarian side and the simple beauty of this common shape.  Sidman’s words work to make the usual, unusual with her blend of language and imagery. 

A spiral reaches out to the world.

It winds around and around…

…and clings tightly,

grasping what it needs.

It never has trouble holding on.

This section of the poem shows the relationship between spirals in habitats like the ocean and jungle.  It highlights hoe creatures rely on the spiral to gather supplies and find safety in the environment.  This would be a great opportunity to share poetry in a science classroom and ask students to find spirals in their own life.  They would also consider the role of the spiral in their own life just as the poem and artwork reflect in the book. 

The illustrations of Krommes are essential to the portrayal of the piece.  The positioning of the bright and dark have stark contrast and highlight the nature of the spirals in nature.  The pieces demonstrate spirals in flowers and animals and places that would seem to be overlooked.  The images help the understanding of the work and engage the reader as they search for more and more spirals.  A great follow-up would be a nature walk in search of spirals.