Archive for Nature

Emu

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Written by Claire Saxby
Illustrated by Graham Byrne

Is that emu startled by you or are you startled by the emu? Either way, the cover of this wonderful new book is definitely an invitation to explore. The fantastic illustrations continue throughout the text, giving a real feel for the forests and grasslands and for the curiosity of the large bird. He is so devoted to the eggs he often loses a great deal of weight, refusing to leave the nest. He must guard the eggs from lizards called goannas. The chicks hatch after eight weeks and are partially protected by camouflaged markings. The father shows the chicks how to hunt for food, keeps them safe, and keeps them warm at night. Dingos might take the chicks. Adult emus could run away and kick predators. Emus move in a zigzag pattern to confuse eagles and other predators.

This heartwarming story of parental concern will make kids love the large birds and cheer for their survival. They will see that, despite the differences, denizens of Australia are not so different from animals everywhere. This would be great as a read aloud to discuss the emu’s life or as independent reading for literacy and further study.

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  • EmuTitle: Emu
  • Author: Claire Saxby
  • Illustrator: Graham Byrne
  • Published: Candelwick Press, 2015
  • Reviewer: Sue Poduska
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • Grade Level: K to 3
  • Genre: Nonfiction, nature, science, Australia
  • ISBN: 978-0-7636-7479-3
  • Extras: About emus, index
Posted in 2015, Animals, Nature tagged with ,

Toad Weather

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Written by Sandra Markle
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

Ally thinks because it is raining there is nothing to do. Wrong!  An outdoor adventure with her mother and grandmother helps her discover a whole new world. A colorful world swirling with the colors of umbrellas reflected in sidewalk puddles unfolds before her as well as the twisted rainbows caused by oil drops on city streets.

She discovers worms who love rainy days because their skin needs to stay wet all the time.

This isn’t just any story to entertain readers about a rainy day it is based in researched science. This book will fulfill the core curriculum standards in natural science, environmental science, climate changes and even migration.

When they find the traffic stopped and investigate further they see toads, toads and more toads in a mob trying to cross the highway. The police have a detour set up and people are even picking up the toads and carrying them across safely.

Sandra Markle does a great job of including all the senses that children use to learn about their surroundings, well, not taste this time. But the sound of rain pounding on buildings and umbrellas, as well as the sight, is important for children to notice.

The illustrations of Thomas Gonzalez mimic the colors and textures of a rainy day. It is amazing how the puddles on the front cover give the 3-D impression that once you touch the cover, your fingers will be wet. And the toad looks like you can reach out and pick it up.

This is a great book for teachers, librarians, and parents to use for teaching science skills as well as explaining how many things there are to enjoy on a rainy day. It is so much fun there is no way kids will only want to hear it read over and over again on only rainy days.

Second grade and third grade readers will be able to read and enjoy this book on their own.

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  • Toad WeatherTitle: Toad Weather
  • Author: Sandra Markle
  • Illustrator: Thomas Gonzalez
  • Publisher: Peachtree, 2015
  • Reviewer: Elizabeth Swartz
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • ISBN:  978-1-56145-818-9
  • Genre: Nonfiction, Weather, Climate, Toads, Migration
  • Grade level: 1 to 4
  • Extras: The author’s note at the end of the book explains a real toad migration that happens each spring near Philadelphia, PA.
Posted in 2015, Nature, Nonfiction tagged with ,

No Monkeys, No Chocolate

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Written by Melissa Stewart and Allen Young
Illustrated by Nicole Wang

Natural processes never exist in isolation from all the other natural forces around them. In this fun and interesting nonfiction picture book, the authors take an inventive approach to pointing out why this is true. If it weren’t for monkeys, we wouldn’t have chocolate bars. Actually, if it weren’t for midges, maggots, lizards, and fungus, we wouldn’t have chocolate either. The story of cocoa production is slowly worked through from the beans to the pods to the roots to the monkeys that help plant new seeds. The tiny bookworms in the corner of each two-page spread add the touch of humor that will ensure holding the attention of kids. The illustrations are realistic and colorful.

This is a perfect beginning reference for second graders learning about nature and science. It will hopefully promote further study. The reading level will be a bit challenging but should enhance literacy skills and comprehension. The suggestions for what kids can do next includes many easy tips.

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  • No Monkeys No ChocolateTitle: No Monkeys, No Chocolate
  • Author: Melissa Stewart and Allen Young
  • Illustrator: Nicole Wang
  • Publisher: Charlesbridge, 2013
  • Reviewer: Sue Poduska
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • Grade Level: K to 3
  • Genre: Nonfiction, nature, humor
  • ISBN: 978-1-58089-287-2
  • Extras: More detailed information in “Cocoa and Rain Forests,” “What You Can Do to Help,” and “Author’s Note”
Posted in 2013, Nature, Nonfiction, Science tagged with , ,

Pitter and Patter

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Written by Martha Sullivan
Illustrated by Cathy Morrison

This colorful, creative nonfiction picture book traces the travels of two raindrops, named Pitter and Patter, throughout the narrative. Each raindrop follows a different path to the ocean.

Pitter lands in the valley and follows a stream. Patter plunks down in a meadow and follows the watershed. Each raindrop meets up with appropriate animals for the ecosystem being traveled through. All the sketches are detailed. Each double page spread is a look into one particular habitat. The text is sparse, readable, and complete. Readers will spend ample time studying the illustrations to understand the differences in how and where different animals live as well as how the water is moving always toward the ocean.

Pitter and Patter meet each other when they both reach the ocean. They are warmed by the sun’s rays, evaporate and return to the gray cloud above the sky. The diagrams as well as the story inclusion of the watershed and the water cycle clearly introduce, or reinforce these basic tenets of science, and therefore, definitely fulfill the core curriculum standards of elementary science. Literacy skills of reading for information standards will also be fulfilled in classrooms from kindergarten to grade 4 wherever this book is used.

Students can learn how to write about nonfiction topics and make their own diagrams to illustrate scientific facts from experiencing this book.

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  • Pitter and PatterTitle: Pitter and Patter
  • Author: Martha Sullivan
  • Illustrator: Cathy Morrison
  • Publisher: Dawn Publications, March 1, 2015
  • Reviewer: Elizabeth Swartz
  • Format: Paperback, 32 pages
  • ISBN:  978-1-58469-509-7
  • Genre: Nonfiction, water cycle
  • Grade level: K to 4
  • Extras: Explore More Endnotes include diagrams of the water cycle, the watershed, more information about animals included in the book
Posted in 2015, Nature, Nonfiction tagged with ,

About Mammals: A Guide for Children

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Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

Most mammals are beautiful and amazing. This book tends to reinforce that view. Detailed and realistic illustrations of many mammals are highlighted by simple text in the main section of this wonderful book. The author shows a wide range of mammals and habitats while still letting the reader know what makes a mammal a mammal. From bats to porcupines to whales, they’re all here. And they all have hair and drink milk from their mothers. Corresponding to each illustration plate is much more advanced information in the afterword. This section offers background information for teachers, librarians and parents to use when sharing this book with children. There is also a list of books for further reading and some current websites for use in further research.

Second grade readers as well as independent first grade readers will be able to enjoy this book on their own.

This volume is a new addition to the “About…” series from the Sills. Each of these books could be used to fulfill core curriculum standards in the area of science and nature. They would give children enough information and interest in the subject to continue to study mammals. Also, this is a bilingual version, giving access to more children and affords opportunities to learn more about another language.

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  • About MammalsTitle: About Mammals: A Guide for Children
  • Author: Cathryn Sill
  • Illustrator: John Sill
  • Publisher: Peachtree, 2014
  • Reviewer: Sue Poduska
  • Format: Paperback
  • ISBN:  978-1-56145-800-4
  • Genre: Nonfiction, animals
  • Lexile: 300L
Posted in 2014, Animals, Nature, Nonfiction tagged with ,

As An Oak Tree Grows

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Written and illustrated by G. Brian Karas

Seasons and generations all pass by as the acorn planted by a supposed Native American child grows. While the text is clear and sparse, the illustrations are full of detail that will delight kindergarten readers as well as third grade readers.

The oak tree grows while people clear the land around it and begin to build houses and families. A timeline across the bottom of the pages lets readers correctly interpret the historical changes in transportation, architecture and clothing shown in the pictures.

For the youngest readers, it is enough to see the tree grow and the seasons change. Older readers will quickly notice the more subtle changes in lifestyle recorded in the illustrations.

This book will satisfy the common core standards for science, history, nature, and literature in several of the elementary grades. It is a beautiful springboard into studies of community development.

Readers will get attached to the tree and feel some sadness at its passing, but hope wins out as a new little acorn sprouts right next to where the old tree stood.

The poster that is in a pocket in the back of the book is full sized and has the stump of the tree enlarged. The rings of the tree are marked with historical markers to show how each ring of the tree represents a complete year. It will make it more understandable for young readers to see how this one tree was present for two hundred years of America’s history.

On the back of the poster are several activity sheets that go along with the book and only help to enhance the information included. This would be an excellent addition to any classroom, school or home library.

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  • As An Oak Tree GrowsTitle: As An Oak Tree Grows
  • Author/Illustrator: G. Brian Karas
  • Publisher: Nancy Paulson Books/Penguin, 2014
  • Reviewer: Elizabeth Swartz
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • ISBN: 978-0-399-25233-4
  • Genre: Historical fiction, realistic
  • Grade Level: K-3
  • Extras: Poster of the tree trunk, with historical labels on various rings, worksheets that go with the book are on the back of the poster.
Posted in 2014, Fiction, History, Nature, Science tagged with ,

About Parrots: A Guide for Children

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Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

Brightly colored feathers draw young children to watch parrots in pet stores. This book for beginning readers will draw them in much the same way with its beautiful, full color illustrations. Various types of parrots are shown in diverse habitats. Each plate clearly shows the information stated on the text pages right down to the details like putting food in their mouths with their feet. Children and adults alike will enjoy studying the pictures.

The large, bold black font makes the one sentence of text at a time, non-threatening for young readers. Also on each page in much smaller print is the number and name of the illustration plate. For more detailed information, a higher functioning reader can turn to the back of the book and find more in-depth information. This section offers background information for teachers, librarians and parents to use when sharing this book with children. There is also a list of books for further reading and some current web-sites for use in further research.

Second grade readers as well as independent first grade readers will be able to enjoy this book on their own.

This volume is a new addition to the About…Series from the Sills. Each of these books could be used to fulfill core curriculum standards in the area of science and nature. They would give children enough information and interest in the subject to continue to study animals.

Extras: Afterword contains detailed explanations of each illustration plate that are on a much higher reading level. This section would be helpful for research projects.

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  • About ParrotsTitle: About Parrots: A Guide for Children
  • Author: Cathryn Sill
  • Illustrator: John Sill
  • Publisher: Peachtree, 2014
  • Reviewer: Elizabeth Swartz
  • Format: hardcover
  • ISBN:  978-1-56145-795-3
  • Genre: Nonfiction
  • Lexile: 640L  / GrdK-3

 

Posted in 2014, Nature, Nonfiction, Science tagged with

The Dandelion Seed’s Big Dream

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Written by Joseph Anthony
Illustrated by Cris Arbo

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Call it “the little seed that could.”

A dandelion seed floats in the air and rides the wind, patiently waiting to be deposited onto the rich soil below. But in an unfortunate landing, the seed finds itself stuck in an open Styrofoam container. Many seasons pass, but the lonely seed never gives up its dream of becoming a flower. Then one day, the seed’s luck changes. It falls out of the container and is pushed into the ground. It grows into the golden yellow flower it has been wishing for all this time.

In what could otherwise be a basic introduction to the plant cycle, Anthony uses anthropomorphism, giving the seed feelings and desires, to spruce up this tale. Readers and listeners will find themselves routing for the little seed and will feel satisfied with its happy ending. Arbo’s realistic artwork is rich with detail for children of all ages to examine and enjoy.

If used as a classroom read aloud, there are many opportunities for discussion and comprehension: Why are some plants considered flowers while others are called weeds? How does littering interfere with nature? Themes of courage, patience, and perseverance will allow second and third graders to make connections to their own lives. Back pages include a diagram of a dandelion and its different life stages, as well as related DIY activities to do with children. More classroom resources can be found on the publishers website: www.dawnpub.com.

  • Dandelion SeedTitle: The Dandelion Seed’s Big Dream
  • Author: Joseph Anthony
  • Illustrator: Cris Arbo
  • Publisher: Dawn Publications
  • Reviewer: Lauren Abbey Greenberg
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • ISBN: 978-1-58469-496-0
  • Genre: Picture Book / Nonfiction / Science / Nature
  • Publication date: September 1, 2014
Posted in 2014, Nature, Nonfiction, Science tagged with , ,

About Habitats: Forests

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Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

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What are forests and why are they important? What kind of wildlife lives in a forest? These questions and more are answered in the latest offering from the About Habitats series.

Cathryn and John Sill have created a wonderful beginner’s guide, presented in a clean, organized fashion. On the left-hand side of the page spread, a simple sentence with easy language appears over a white background. To the right, readers are treated to a painting, vivid with color and detail. With clear labeling for easy cross-reference, different levels of information are available for different reader levels. A kindergartener may pore over the picture of the cute chipmunk, while a second or third grader can expand their knowledge and literacy skills from the plant and animal identifiers (e.g., an Eastern Chipmunk in a deciduous forest, surrounded by morel mushrooms and Christmas ferns).

Young readers will learn about the different types of forests like deciduous, tropical, or boreal and how each has their own distinct characteristics. The illustrations show animals and plants thriving within each habitat: a snowshoe hare blends into the snowy landscape of the boreal forest; an orangutan finds shelter in the tropical forest canopy; a black bear, broad-winged hawk, and box turtle live side by side in the deciduous forest.

Extras include a global map of the major forest areas of the world, a glossary, bibliography, and additional websites for further information. For more titles in the About Habitats series, visit the publishers website: www.peachtree-online.com.

  • ForestsTitle: About Habitats: Forests
  • Author: Cathryn Sill
  • Illustrator: John Sill
  • Publisher: Peachtree Publishers, 2014
  • Reviewer: Lauren Abbey Greenberg
  • Format: Hardcover, 48 pages
  • ISBN: 978-1-56145-734-2
  • Genre: Picture Book, Nature, Wildlife, Ecology
Posted in 2014, Nature, Nonfiction, Wildlife tagged with ,

The Moon Saw It All

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Written by Nancy L. Young
Illustrated by Nadia Komorova

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Something magical happens when a full moon appears over Aravaipa Canyon in Arizona. Animals from air, land, and sea come together to dance, sing, and make music at the “critter ball.” With ethereal illustrations awash in purple hues, second graders will love this gentle rhyming story of friendship, camaraderie, and celebration of nature.

At the monthly moonlit dance by the creek, frogs and bugs exchange hugs, while bobcats croon and porcupines whistle a tune. Snakes shake their rattles, gila monsters swish, and silver minnows shimmer as they splash, while brown bears do-si-do and quails tango all under the watchful eye of the moon. Cheek to cheek, paw in paw, they dance the night away. No one wants it to end, but at daybreak the animals vanish. All that remains are hoof prints, paw prints, feathers and flower petals curiously mixed together, along with a message inscribed in the sand: The moon saw it all!

Recommended for ages 3-9, this book is chock-full of warm fuzzies; the soothing cadence is a natural fit for a bedtime story or classroom read-aloud. Every page offers an array of critters to gaze upon, plus children outside of the southwest will learn about regional species such as bighorn sheep, javelina, tarantulas, and coatimundi. A curriculum guide for school or home use follows the story and includes vocabulary words, lessons on poetry, and literary activities. A companion coloring book, The Moon Colors It All, can be purchased on www.MoonSawItAll.com. Visit the publisher’s website for additional titles: www.LittleFiveStar.com.

  • Moon Saw It AllTitle: The Moon Saw It All
  • Author: Nancy L. Young
  • Illustrator: Nadia Komorova
  • Publisher: Little Five Star / Five Star Publications, 2013
  • Reviewer: Lauren Abbey Greenberg
  • Format: Paperback, 40 pages
  • ISBN: 978-1-58985-250-1
  • Genre: Picture Book / Fiction / Nature / Animals
Posted in 2013, Animals, Fiction, Nature, Picture book tagged with , ,
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