Cat in the Clouds

I think this is a great book to generate interest in weather, especially for older students.  The dedication page sets the tone for the reader to want to know more about weather, Mount Washington, and meteorologist. 

"Since 1932, a handful of hardy meteorologists - and courageous cats - have lived at the Mount Washington Observatory, known as the "Home of the World's Worst Weather."  Heavy snow, freezing fog, and record-breaking winds make the summit of New England's highest peak an ideal location for studying the elements."

Cat in the Clouds by Eric Pinder is the story of a cat who shows up at Mark and Susan's home.  Nin, gets along with Mark and Susan but not with the two house cats they already own.  Mark decides to take Nin to Mount Washington.  As the reader follows Nin's journey to Mount Washington these words may peak interest for further discussion and thinking;  snow tracker, parka, observatory, weather instruments, white flowers called Diapensia, cold front, and various weather words.  While Nin stays warm inside he watches humans try to play a game of walking on the deck with winds stronger than a hurricane.  His human friends also use their arms like sails to sled across the deck on snow and ice. 

The appendix provides the reader with more information on various cats that have been "mascots" on Mount Washington over the years.  On April 12, 1934 an incredible storm was witnessed with winds recorded at 231 miles per hour.  Luckily for my friend and I we had a beautiful day as we hiked Mount Washington this year.  She is from Colorado and does this sort of thing all the time.  I however, living in Ohio decided to make this my first mountain hiking experience and I am happy to say we made it to the top and I bought this book, elevation 6288 ft.  You however, do not have to hike Mount Washington to find this book.