Extreme Places: The Most Remote Homes on Earth

From Tristan da Cunha to Atka, Alaska, Laroche’s globe-spanning tour of 13 remote human-inhabited locations frequently renders “extreme places” as idyllic. Opening each locale’s profile, an introduction invites readers to imagine what life would be like there, emphasizing the everyday and articulating the way communities have adapted to each place. For instance, on Yemeni island Socotra— a granite landmass in the Arabian Sea—“you and your friends would know where to gather sweet pomegranates for lunch, where to watch the Socotran chameleon change color, and how to avoid the blue baboon tarantula.” Further information is organized under headings: “Location,” “Who Lives Here?,” “Fascinating Fact,” and “Adapting to Extremes.” Intricate cut-paper reliefs winningly re-create each place in miniature diorama-like delicacy, emphasizing traditional activities—such as riding in a hot air balloon above Göreme, Cappadocia, and fishing in the aquamarine waters of the Atafu Atoll. A map, creator’s note, and selected sources conclude. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)