The ice that surrounds Antarctica is immense and awe-inspiring. Despite extreme conditions, animal life is prolific, from tiny phytoplankton to seals, seabirds and whales. Meredith Hooper and Lucia deLeiris accompanied an expedition to Antarctica during 1998-99, sponsored by the US National Science Foundation. From their journals, drawings and paintings, they have created this book documenting the remarkable ecosystem.

The book introduces children to the worlds above and beneath the pack ice, the ocean lying just below the ice, and on the narrow strip of coastline. Maps of the area are included, and there is a glossary and an introductory spread with photos of the expedition.