A mother snow leopard teaches her cubs how to survive among harsh conditions in this rich picture book text that follows twin siblings from one week of age until they are able to live independently more than a year later. Through example the mother teachers her offspring how to be quiet while hunting, to stay on their feet in order to catch quick prey, to find shelter in a storm, and to always stay clear of humans, all while growing up in an environment that is often dangerous. Watercolor and pencil illustrations capture the beauty of the animals and their home in the Hindu Kush Mountains of Pakistan. A few additional facts about snow leopards and a list of resources are included. (Ages 4-7)

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The author/illustrator team of Sandra Markle and Alan Marks has had a profound impact on the world of children’s nonfiction with their collaborative efforts on books about different animals around the world. From wolves in Yellowstone to penguins in Antarctica, readers and critics have raved about the way in which Markle and Marks share their stories and information about animals in the wild. In their newest project, readers are introduced to twin snow leopard cubs and their mother from the Hindu Kush mountains of Pakistan. Lyrical, informative text and stunning watercolor illustrations lead readers through the struggles these snow leopards face—from finding food to bearing harsh weather conditions—and the lessons the young cubs learn as they prepare for a life on their own, out from underneath the watchful, caring eye of their mother. Back matter includes further resources and facts as well as an author’s note about the research process and information about how we can help this endangered species.