Storm's Coming!

Preus's (Enchantment Lake) homespun story introduces a family that lives on a cliff high above Lake Superior, in the shadow of an imposing lighthouse. Observant Sophie reads clues from nature--bees take refuge in their hive, a dandelion closes up, etc.--as harbingers of an impending storm, sharing the news with each of her four siblings as they tackle outdoor chores. After Sophie delivers a final warning to her father, the lighthouse keeper, she helps him carry oil to fill the foghorn's engine and wind the clock that keeps the light's lens turning, before insisting on keeping vigil with him during the storm (it's clear that Sophie is both thrilled by and wary of the power wielded by a thunderstorm). Geister's (Surviving the Hindenburg) oil paintings offer tender, close-up portraits of the characters, authentically portraying Sophie's urgency and the dramatic transformation of sky and water as the storm descends. An author's note touches lightly on the science behind the folk wisdom that Sophie and her family relies on, which should fascinate weather-curious readers. Ages 3-7. (Sept.) Publishers Weekly