Esmeralda and the Enchanted Pond [Paperback]

A young girl learns scientific explanations for what she sees in a Florida forest.

Are the turtles really gnomes? Are the dragonflies fairies? Did the evil king really turn the pond dark brown, or is there a scientific reason for the murky water? Journey down the moss-covered path with Esmeralda and her dad as they visit a mysterious pond looking for most amazing sights!

Esmeralda and her dad love to visit their enchanted pond deep within a Florida forest. They see animals busily scurrying to and fro, trees and plants growing wild, and pond creatures serenely sunning themselves. While Esmeralda's dad uses his imagination to explain the natural events that take place around the pond, Esmeralda wants more scientific explanations for what happens during each season. Her dad gives Esmeralda the realistic answers the inquisitive girl demands. But, in the end, Esmeralda's pond is enchanted.

An illustrated activity guide that conforms to the Sunshine State Standards is also available for Esmeralda and the Enchanted Pond. Containing activities and experiments, this guide is a must for teachers who want to help their students better understand some of the science lessons they will encounter in the book.

Susan Jane (Ryan) Judson has been a Florida elementary school teacher for more than thirty years, as well as a consultant on several award-winning activity guides for Florida State Universitys Energy and Environmental Alliance. She has also written several environmental books for children.