Step into Reading 4 - Ice Mummy

Ice Mummy

NON-FICTION ARCHAEOLOGY & HISTORY • BY ANne DOWSWELL

First published by Random House in 1998, Ice Mummy tells the astonishing true story of Ötzi the Iceman—a 5,000-year-old man discovered frozen in the Italian Alps by two hikers in 1991.

Updated with thrilling modern archaeological evidence, the book details everything from the grueling extraction of the mummy from its icy grave to its preservation in a custom refrigeration chamber in Bolzano, Italy. With new forensic discoveries revealing that the Iceman was actually murdered in an ancient hand-to-hand conflict, this gripping non-fiction account delivers real-life historical mystery for young readers.

"A man, frozen in the ice for 5,000 years... now with shocking new evidence that the Iceman was murdered."

Core Narrative & Archaeological Highlights:

• The Accidental Discovery: Chronicles the 1991 hike in the Otztal Alps where tourists stumbled upon the remarkably preserved ancient remains.

• Forensic Investigation: Explores how scientists used modern technology to uncover the Iceman's clothing, tools, last meals, and health.

• The Murder Mystery: Examines the shocking revelation that Ötzi died from an arrowhead wound following a violent prehistoric confrontation.

• Preservation & Museum Home: Details the high-tech refrigeration facility in Bolzano, Italy, designed to keep the mummy preserved for ongoing scientific study.

Key Historical & Scientific Facts:

Perfect For:

• Young Historians & Science Buffs (Ages 8–12): Kids fascinated by archaeology, forensic science, and real-life historical mysteries.

• Reluctant Readers: A fast-paced, high-interest non-fiction book that reads like a detective story.

• Classroom Units on Ancient History: An excellent supplemental text for lessons on prehistory, human evolution, and scientific methods.