On a Norwegian island not far from the North Pole, deep inside a mountain, more than 580 million seeds are stored in three temperature-controlled vaults. The seeds originate around the globe and are sent to Svalbard as a backup: “Just in case.” There they are preserved and carefully protected, available to be withdrawn and planted at any time, even centuries from the time of deposit. This fascinating account of an innovative form of preservation illustrates not only the planning, design, construction, and daily operations of the seed vault, but also the reasoning behind its creation. Climate change has affected what grows in certain locations. Diversity of major crops has diminished. War has threatened smaller seed vaults in other locations. “Seeds are more than the foundation of our food. They are history. And they are the future.” The main narrative, concisely written yet substantial, is supplemented by sidebars with additional details; back matter provides further resources and information on storing seeds and the composition of the Svalbard collection. Soft digital illustrations offer nice visuals of the vault’s design and interior; the process of packing up and delivering seeds; and crops, gardens, and small seed vaults around the world. (Ages 6-9)