Charlotte the Scientist is Squished, written by Camille Andros and illustrated by Brianne Farley. Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Raincoast, 2017. $23.99 ages 6 asnd up

"It had become impossible
to conduct her experiments.
Her test tubes were taken,
her beakers got broken, and her
specimens were spoiled.
Charlotte needed some space.
Time to use the scientific method!

Step 1:
Ask a question."

We are immediately aware of those impressive and famous people who sparked Charlotte's interest in science. She is as serious as they were! She has, just as they had, a 'method to the madness'. It is pointed out to readers on the first page that the scientific method is  what guides her work. She wants to proceed through questioning, hypothesizing, experimenting, observing and concluding just as all successful scientists do. She has all the right equipment - protective glasses, magnifying glass, clipboard, and lab coat.

There is one huge problem! Her family, and ALL of its members. Charlotte is squished  in the middle of a bunch of bunnies, no matter what she is doing. So then, how is a serious scientist to go about such important work? Using the scientific method, she sets out to solve that particular problem first. The question is easy. The hypothesis, as well:

"If I can get rid
of my brothers and
sisters, I will have
room to be a
real scientist."

The experimentation is problematic. Perhaps, really being in space is the answer! Her observations and conclusions lead her to finally believing she has achieved success. Other problems arise, and she is made painfully aware of one thing - 'space was lonely'. All she has to do is revisit the final three steps to come to a solution.

Brianne Farley's illustrations 'were executed in charcoal, pencil and ink on paper and colored digitally'. They are full of imagination, detail and add humor. Readers are sure to be very interested in the specs for the carrot-shaped rocket ship Charlotte uses in her search for 'space'. They will find them on the endpapers.

There you have it! For non-scientists (as I consider myself), this is a book that I would have liked to share with my classes as we thought about science fair projects.

Moto and Me: My Year as a Wildcat's Foster Mom, by Suzi Eszterhas. Owlkids Books, 2017. $18.95 ages 6 and up

"If a noise frightened him or he lost sight of where I was, Moto would call out to me. His call sounded like a short, loud meow. I'd return his call by saying "Moto" and he would answer back. Calling back and forth is how serval mothers and their kittens communicate when they cannot see each other in the long savanna grass."

It is such fun to share the work that Suzi Eszterhas does to benefit and to show animals in our world. Her amazing photos and personal narratives entertain and inform her readers, while filling them with awe and wonder that she gets up so close to these wondrous creatures.

"As a child, I used to tell my mom that one day I would live in a tent in Africa. So it was a dream come true when I headed to the Masai Mara, a wildlife reserve in Kenya, to photograph animals."
Little did the author know a realized dream would have her fostering a wild serval kitten in that same tent! That is exactly what happens, and the job takes the better part of a year. Moto is irresistible as you will see when you leaf through the pages of this engaging account. Her description of their days and the learning that the tiny kitten did is quite the story. Throughout the time they spent together Moto gained the knowledge and skills he would need to live in the wild on his own.

All you really have to do is to take a close look at the front cover of the book, and you will fall in love with the tiny guy whose story is told here. The book's design has lasting impact and is beautifully arranged to show maps, clear images, the setting, and the relationship that developed between the two. Bottle-fed, surrounded by toys to keep him company and always feeling the warmth of a caring 'mother', Moto thrives. Through some trying times, the two stayed the course with Moto learning to find his own food. A lively series of photos shows exactly how Moto does it.

"Like all servals, Moto has very large, sensitive ears that are like radar dishes.
Servals can hear small prey hiding deep in the grass or even under the ground."

Four captioned pictures show Moto hear something in the grass, pounce in the exact spot where the sound emanates, play with the tiny mouse he finds there, and finally capture it to carry home. Kids will love it! When the fostering is complete, the two separate to lead their separate lives. Tough, but exactly what is meant to happen.

A table of contents is helpful, and will lead the audience back to a favorite topic. As well, Ms.Eszterhas adds a section at the end to provide additional facts about all servals. A winner!

Fresh-Picked Poetry: A Day at the Farmer's Market. Written by Michelle Schaub and illustrated by Amy Huntington. Charlesbridge, Random House. 2017. $19.99 ages 5 and up

"We'll buy a pint;
we'll buy a quart;
we'll buy them by the case.

To make some jam
and bake a pie
with crust of lattice lace.

They won't last long;
they'll soon be gone;
that's why we need to race."

If you love gooseberries, you will understand why this family is on a wild-goose chase to get some! They know the berries won't be there for long, and they are eager to benefit from the bounty to be found at a stand in the farmer's market. Of course, that is not the only thing they will find as they peruse the transformed parking lot housing the market this fine day. Farmers have worked hard to prepare their fresh-picked produce, their baked goods, their eggs, their lemonade, their sharpening skills, their honey - all for this day's sale.

"Early  Risers

While you sleep
snuggled tight,
farmers toll
by silver light.
Harvest, sort,
wash, and load.
Hop in trucks.
Hit the road.
Just as dawn
pinks the sky,
they arrive,
stretch and sigh.
Set up tables,
tents, and bins.
By the time
your day begins,
the farmer's day
is in full-swing -
enjoy the bounty
that they bring."

From the beginning of the day until the end, buyers arrive to purchase the wares. Is there no end to what a person might find during a visit?

Amy Huntington uses watercolors, graphite, ink and Photoshop to create her appealing and telling look at the warm and friendly market. We follow a boy and his dog, a girl and her dog as they enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes and explore the many booths with interest. It is a celebration in rhyme for the wonders of such a special place.  Always energetic and most enjoyable to share, this book only makes me long for summer and the riches that come to us from our farmers and growers.

Come on, sunshine and warm spring and summer breezes!

If You Were the Moon, written by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Jaime Kim. Millbrook, Thomas Allen & Son. 2017. $29.99 ages 4 and up

"Play dodgeball with space rocks.

{The moon would not be good at dodgeball, because it doesn't get out of the way of the meteorites crashing into it! All those collisions have pounded the top layer of the moon's crust into gray, powdery dust ... "

There is no need to remind you I admire everything Laura Purdie Salas writes! Check out her website at www.laurasalas.com to see each of her books and her many resources for children, their teachers, and other writers. It is full of terrific ideas and information, a link to her blog and much, much more ...

So, it comes as no surprise to me that her new book is a lively blend of poetry and nonfiction, sure to inform readers with all she has to share about the moon and the role it plays in our lives.  The little girl who calls to the moon with a wish to do nothing, expresses the opinion that she would then be just like the moon itself. The moon is quick to let her know what, in fact, she would do if she really were the moon!

"Hover near your mother.

{Scientists believe the moon formed 4.5 billion
years ago when a meteorite the size of Mars
collided with the newly formed Earth. Rock
from Earth and the meteorite splashed into
space, and the moon was born.}"

The rest of the book is a series of benefits and mysteries provided by the moon and little known to many of us. The nonfiction text is provided in a different font, giving full meaning to its many attributes. There is so much here to learn, even addressing the many inspirations the moon provides for artists and the people of the world. Jaime Kim has created dazzling, moonlight-filled artwork using acrylic paints and digital techniques. The moon's phases, with its smiling face and the Earth's look of surprise, is one of my favorites. Young readers will quickly find their own in this vibrant and informative introduction to something so familiar in the night sky.

Backmatter includes a glossary for unfamiliar terms, and well as a list for further reading.

I wonder what Ms. Salas will next consider. Can't wait to see.

Bird, Balloon, Bear, story and pictures by Il Sung Na. Alfrerd A Knopf, Random House. 2017. $23.99 ages 2 and up

"But Bird was too
shy to say hello.

When he finally felt
brave enough ...

... it was too late!
Bear already had a friend."

Any child who has ever stood on the sidelines wanting to speak to someone new will know exactly how Bird feels. He has just moved into the neighborhood, and is looking for a friend. When he spots Bear, he is interested. But, Bird is shy and hangs back watching rather than reaching out.

Neither has much to do but watch ants crawling, sit silently on a rock, lean against a nearby tree. Just when Bird is ready to say hello, a red balloon captures Bear's attention. Bear and Balloon fashion a happy friendship, liking each other's company despite a lack of conversation. They spend their days together and watch the sun go down in the evenings. Poor Bird!

When a wind catches hold of Balloon and carries it away, it's Bird to the rescue! Up he flies, and does his level best to catch Balloon before he POPS! Too late ... Bear's new friend is a puddle of pieces. Only then does Bear notice Bird, and he's quick to say hello. Bird's patience and Bear's friendly spirit ensure that a new friendship is born.

I love the round edges - Bear's big belly, Bird's rounded red head, Balloon's soft shape. The colorful images are painted with a light touch, with lots of white space. This allows young readers to focus their attention on what is most important on each spread. The peaceful sunset, the strong movement of the wind as it blows the balloon away are perfect. Kids are going to love it, and will surely want to read it again. 

Bee: A Peek-Through Picture Book, text by Patricia Hegarty and illustrations by Britta Teckentrup. Doubleday Books for Young Readers, Penguin. 2017. $19.99 ages 3 and up

"Gathering nectar as she goes,
From every foxglove, every rose,
Dusty with pollen, the little bee
Buzzes, buzzes, busily.

Bee travels on from bloom to bloom,
Drawn in by their sweet perfume.

Harvesting flowers one by one,
Her compass is the midday sun."

I know that I have earlier posted my admiration for Britta Teckentrup's joyous, detailed artwork. In this book, a companion to last year's Tree (Doubleday, 2016), she matches her images to the rhythmic text created by Patricia Hegarty. Together, they show young readers the important role that bees play in our world.

The hexagonal window on the front cover is a delightful invitation to children to open to the book's pages and see what is going on inside. Cut paper collage explodes in brilliant color on every spread, and mixed media scenes beg attention for the many details included. The fields are alive with movement, light and texture. The tiny honeybee described in lyrical, carefully chosen words invites readers to share the many places and spaces that share the benefits of its flight.

"In the treetops, birds start to sing.
The little bee beats her wings.
As she travels here and there,
A gentle humming fills the air."

Outstanding care has been given to the production of this book. The cover begs a lingering touch, the die-cuts are much appreciated by young readers, and their senses are piqued by the attention given to the true beauty of nature. The role of honeybees cannot be downplayed. This is a perfect introduction for young children to their importance.

"As the bees fly on through buds and burs,
A tiny miracle occurs:

So many plants and flowers you see
Were given life by one small bee."

Happy Dreamer, by Peter H. Reynolds. Orchard Books, Scholastic. 2017. $21.99 ages 4 and up

"Sometimes I'm a
quiet dreamer
when I make time
to stay still and
hear myself think -
to let go and see
what takes shape.

DO YOU SEE THAT?"

Peter Reynolds has written some of my favorite books about children finding out who they are in those things they love to do. I hope that you have seen The Dot (Candlewick, 2003), ish (Candlewick, 2004) and other books he has published to encourage children and teachers to find their best selves in this world. He wants us never to let go of our dreams.

After attending a learning difference conference at Harvard where many of the attendees were highly successful people who shared some of their own challenging learning differences while they were in school, Peter found himself thinking of a poem. He called it Amazing, Delightful, Happy Dreamer, the initials spelling out ADHD. That poem became his new book. I want to share my thoughts about it with you tonight.

It is signature work from a man who knows what struggling with paying attention in school was like.
He wrote it for those kids in every school who may be labelled ADHD, and wants them to know it is 'a gift, not a label'. Truly, their dreaming can lead to many wonderful places. He recognizes their creative spirits, and the fact that many people would rather that they move quietly through life and give focus and attention to learning what must be learned.

The dreamer in this book in jubilant in his love for the dreaming that he cannot help but do. Full of energy and joy, he moves through his days expressing himself in sound, color, surprise, and chaos.

"I have so many dreams it can get messy.
CREATIVE CHAOS.
Cleaning up hides my treasures.
If you MAKE me,
I will put my things away.
But then there is
less ME to show."

He is not always happy. Mostly, he is able to find his way back to joy!

The author has a wish for everyone who shares his book:

"May it reassure you that good things are ahead for all us dreamers. And in fact, I do believe that if we are to solve some of the planet's biggest problems—we can't keep trying the same solutions. We must invite inventive, flexible minds to the table. World problem solving aside—if this book encourages my readers to simply be happy with themselves, then I'll sleep—and dream— better at night."

Pages filled with color, movement, and hand-lettered text pull readers along in celebration of dreaming. The final gatefold opens to show many children as happy dreamers  - nature happy, space dreamer, alone happy, daydreamer, and on it goes. It's such a pleasure to take the time to really look at each one. And, it offers opportunity for discussion and perhaps even an answer to the question the author leaves with his audience:

"(What kind of dreamer are you?)

 Don't miss the endpapers! If you are interested in hearing more from Peter Reynolds, please have a listen.

http://oomscholasticblog.com/sites/default/files/podcast/happy-dreamer-episode-3.mp3

Hattie Peck: The Journey Home, written and illustrated by Emma Levey. Sky Pony Press, Thomas Allen and Son. 2016. $25.99 ages 3 and up

"Hattie had braved
the elements rescuing
abandoned eggs around
the world.

Big ones,
small ones,

no matter what their size.
she loved each hatchling
just the same."

Hattie Peck proves herself a very special mother in this new book. I will have to find Hattie Peck (Sky Pony Press, 2016) to learn her whole story. Seems she is meant to be a mother, but unable to lay eggs of her own. So, she has gathered as many motherless eggs as she could find in the wide world and her home is now full of a menagerie of exuberant and demanding hatchlings.

Everywhere they go, and everything they do, is chaotic. Imagine trying to keep an eye on such a motley crew. Kids will have great fun identifying the many creatures hatched from eggs, and will concentrate fully on the details that Ms. Levey adds to each of her playful and full-of-love pages.

Their days are full of wonder, and celebrated together. Every single birthday is highlighted with a handmade gift from their hen mother. Their many happy memories intact, the time has come for each of her babies to make a life for themselves. Hattie is determined to help them find their way back to their place in the world. Together, they 'fly the coop'!

Their shared journey is fraught with danger, and adventure. As the family gets smaller, the journey becomes more arduous. No matter, soon they are all where they are meant to be and Hattie is home alone, working at new projects. A surprise visit results in an equally happy surprise for a very special mother.
                                                                       

Freedom Over Me, by Ashley Bryan. Athenenum Books for Young Readers, Simon and Schuster. 2016. $23.99 ages 6 and up

“No matter what work I do
on the estate -
even learning carpentry
from Stephen -
I think of drawing.
I plan one day
to draw freely
from free Negro people.
I will create
loving portraits
of their strength  ..."

In an author's note following the text, Ashley Bryan explains how this beautiful and necessary book came to be written:

"A name. An age. A price.
    People like you. Like me.
    For sale!
    Many years ago I acquired a collection of slave-related documents.
They date from the 1820s to the 1860s.
    I was deeply moved by these documents and have long wished to
work from them. Finally, I chose the Fairchilds Appraisement of the
Estate document from July 5, 1828 to tell this story. Eleven slaves are
listed for sale with the cows, hogs, cotton; only the names and prices of
the slaves are noted (no age is indicated)."

He goes on to say he wanted to give these names a voice and a dream. He chooses an age and the work they are assigned to help tell their story. It is a deeply moving and necessary accounting of the time of slavery in the United States when 'Negro people were not considered human beings'. They were merely property to be bought and sold at an owner's behest.

There are 11 slaves here named, and Mr. Bryan does exactly what he set out to do: he gives them an identity, a purpose in life, and a dream for the future. As we read about them, we hear their voices, their personal history and their description of the work they do on the plantation.

Jane is the seamstress:

"I'm seamstress to Mrs. Fairchilds.
Noted
for my skills with cloth,
I design and sew
all of Mrs. Fairchilds's dresses,
tailor shirts and trousers
for Mr. Fairchilds as well.

I enjoy matching colored cloths,
creating unusual patterns.
This has brought many compliments
to the wearer.
Some deep remembrance
of woven African cloths
lives on in me."

And her dream:

"I have grown in artistry
through the clothes I create.
The praise I receive,
I offer as a tribute
to my ancestors.

Stephen and I
treat the young slave John
as our son.
We never lose hope
that we will one day
live free."

The gorgeous and boldly colored pen, ink and watercolor portraits are mesmerizing. You cannot help but be drawn to their faces, their demeanor, their hard work and their dreams; and the price they are expected to bring. They make a meaningful contribution to the success of the plantation. Their world is captured in their telling words. Ashley Bryan shows he cares about the people and their stories, and he makes us care, too. This is a powerful book, and it should be shared.
                                                                             

Laundry Day, by Jessixa Bagley. A Neal Porter Book, Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2017. $24.99 ages 3 and up

"Well, how about building a fort?" asked Ma Badger. "We already made one," said Tic. "Then we invaded it and it fell apart," said Tac. "What about fishing?" asked Ma Badger tiredly. "We caught all the fish in the pond," said Tic. "Then we let them go ... 

Young readers are sure to get a kick out of this tale of two brothers, full of pep and always on the lookout for something to keep them from being bored. Tic and Tac would be described as boisterous, I think. Ma does her best to keep them busy, and makes many suggestions - reading, fort-building, fishing. They have been there, and done that!

She mentions hanging laundry. That catches their attention. They have not done that! Ma gives instructions, and they are keen to follow them. Leaving them to finish while she goes for groceries, Ma has no idea the mischief that might follow upon completion of their given task. There is no limit to the additional items the two find for hanging outside on this warm and sunny laundry day!

They soon run out of room on the laundry line, presenting no problem at all when Tac allows that they are NOT out of twine. Kids will be hooting as they watch the collection grow by leaps and bounds.

"They ran all over the house gathering every whatnot, bauble, and trinket they could find! They picked up every knickknack, this and that, bric-a-brac in the house. They grabbed buckets and books. They pilfered pots. They pirated pillows. They looted lampshades and even took the toaster!"

Oh, my! When  Mama comes home, Tic and Tac learn the true meaning of being hung out to dry! Be prepared to read this one again and again ... such terrific fun!
                                                                              

 

 

                                                                                                       

 

Let's Eat: Sustainable Food for a Hungry Planet. Written by Kimberley Veness. Orca Book Publishers, 2017. $19.95 ages 9 and up

"I love quinoa, and it's super easy to grow. Our garden on Vancouver Island was about the size of a backyard swimming pool, complete with a 2-meter-wall (7 foot tall) deer fence with large stones at the base to keep the wild rabbits from burrowing under. The tall, colorful buds of quinoa rested lazily on the top of the fence."

The Orca Footprints series has been very successful, and deservedly so! They tell readers about issues of importance and do it in a way that is accessible and educational. In this newest edition, Kimberley Veness teaches those who read her book about the many traditional ways that food comes to our tables.

Today, there are opportunities for children to learn first-hand about food production through visits, planned activities, and even video access to growers and producers. She has included four chapters: Let's Eat, which raises awareness of some of the challenges faced when trying to get food to the table; Small is Beautiful, which takes into consideration family farms and those who produce food for us in a much more personal way; Urban Foodscapes, where the larger centers offer new ways of growing indoors, or in gardens designed for rooftops, and purchasing locally prepared foods from the food trucks often seen on city streets; and finally A Farm for the Future, which is pretty self-explanatory. Here readers can consider advances in food production and what the future may hold for each of us.

As we have come to expect, the design invites us to check out the many exceptional archival and contemporary photos provided, and the text is written to grab attention with small bits of useful information:

"FARMING FACT: Twelve percent of land on Earth, more than 1.5 billion hectares (3.7 billion acres), is being used to grow food. That's an area nearly twice the size of Australia, and it's expanding every day."

From Farm to Table, Farming Fact, Chew on This sidebars, as well as clearly captioned photos,
suggestions for learning activities, and charts provide everything needed to guide us through this relevant and thoughtful book. A resource list for further learning, a glossary and an index are also helpful.

My daughter has lived in Victoria for more than ten years now, and I was quite proud to be able to share some of what I learned when reading this fine book. She did not know the Mason Street City Farm which is within walking distance of downtown Victoria. Now she does. Their family has not yet been lucky enough to sample a local food truck, owned and operated by Aidan Pine:

"I met Aidan Pine one summer while working at a farmers' market. In the course of a year, his family went from raising 20 chickens to 200 to keep up with orders at the truck, and that was just the poultry. All the produce, lamb, pork and chicken he serves from his food truck come from the farm. It isn't unusual to serve 50 pounds of beets in one week. People can't get enough of his farm-fresh flavors!"

If you  live in Victoria, or are visiting, be sure to see if you can find the Juma food truck, and give local food a try!

Duck and Hippo in the Rainstorm, written by Jonathan London and illustrated by Andrew Joyner. two lions, Amazon. Thomas Allen & Son, 2017. $ 25.99 ages 3 and up

"They puddle-jumped together.
They plopped through mud
together.

SLOP! SLOP! SLOP!

And they dropped a stick off
a bridge and watched it rush
on down the creek.

SWOOOOOOSH!"

Happy first day of spring, everyone!

When I was teaching kindergarten my students loved Jonathan London's Froggy books. There have been many over the years. Froggy had some of the same experiences his young fans had. As with series books, they liked knowing a little more about Froggy and his family each time a new book was added to our classroom library. Now, we have this first book in a brand new series. I do hope you are happy to meet Duck and Hippo whose adventures will continue with another adventure in August, Duck and Hippo Lost and Found.

Although we still have snow on the ground and March is not over yet, knowledge that it is the first day of spring brings hope for April showers, May flowers, and a return to warmth. Kids like nothing better than splashing through puddles, sailing inanimate objects in the flowing waters created during a spring thaw, or following a rainstorm. Meet Duck and Hippo as they enjoy those same things together.

They are friends, and they are very different ... in looks and in personality. Those differences are cause for concern occasionally. Hippo, elegantly dressed and enjoying a spot of tea, is interrupted by a knock at the door and an invitation from a friend. Duck wants Hippo to join him for a walk in the rain. Duck has an umbrella, Hippo has rain boots. They head off with the agreement that Duck will share his umbrella!

"But there was no room for Hippo!
He tried walking in front of Duck.
   But that didn't work.

He tried walking behind Duck.
   But that didn't work.

Then Duck stood on Hippo's feet,
and Hippo held the umbrella.
   And that worked just fine!"

Silly situations, repetitive language, appealing new characters, and the promise of future adventure ... what more can we ask of the prolific Mr. London? Andrew Joyner adds expressive, impressive artwork to assure that little readers have a budding new friendship to appreciate and enjoy.

                                                                     

Keep a Pocket in Your Poem: Classic Poems and Playful Parodies, written and selected by J. Patrick Lewis and illustrated by Johanna Wright. Wordsong, An Imprint of Highlights. 2017. $23.50 ages 5 and up

"Rats

I think rats
Are really brats.

Their teeth are sharp,
Their hearts are black
As charcoal from
The love they lack.
They're rightly known
As evildoers ... "

When I was conducting poetry workshops in schools, I had a rule that I hoped everyone would make a habit. I asked both kids and teachers to have a poem in their pockets when they came to school in the morning. You know that the 'keeners' were sure to make it part of their day. Others didn't remember. Some didn't care. I wasn't hoping to convert every person in the school to a love of poetry ... that would never work! What I was hoping was that I would make a difference for those who fell in love with the poetic form as I had. That love did not come from my early encounters with poetry. Most of those were painful, as the intention was to try to figure out what the poet was thinking and wanting to convey. How was I to know that, unless I could speak directly with the poet? It all seemed speculation to me, and didn't help me love poetry at all. So, I began sharing poetry with the children in my classroom to bolster their love of words and the ways we can use them. Every day, we shared a poem or two. They had many favorites. As did I!

J. Patrick Lewis was one of the poets I turned to in order to find poems that would resonate with the children - funny, thoughtful, original, and entertaining. I am always keen to see what he is up to next. He never fails to gather me in, and teach me something new. His new collection is a combination of selected poems (he is a brilliant anthologist), and then original poetry meant to echo or parody the meaning of the chosen ones.

Mr. Lewis has selected thirteen:

"SOMETIMES, WHEN I READ A WONDERFUL POEM, I want to write a parody of it. For me, this is the best way to pay tribute to someone else's work.

Of the hundreds of poems I admire, here are thirteen that appealed to the tinkering part of my brain. (Of course I could have tinkered with many others.) So I took the poems apart and put them back together, but in my own words."

Interesting! What a terrific collection this is! It also serves as inspiration for you, your children and students to give it a go. Some of the poems will be familiar, others will not. But, you will quickly realize which are favorites from this selection. If not, go to the library, gather up books to be shared, and take some time to find a few poems that speak to you. Be sure to take a close look at what is included here, as they will get you thinking seriously about the way you might make some changes of your own.

I have already begun with a short excerpt from a poem modelled on Rose Fyleman's classic Mice. I love that he turned the poem into a parody between the two rodents, one much scarier and more detested than the other. It provides real balance between them.

Johanna Wright uses acrylic paint and ink on canvas to bring life to the poems on either side of the gutter. She lets readers see that the two poems are reflective of the other, with colorful, emotional images that add to the appeal of the book as a whole.

The following two face each other:

Winter Sweetness                                                 
Langston Hughes                                                     

This little house is sugar.                                         
 Its roof with snow is piled,                             
And from its tiny window                                       
 Peeps a maple-sugar child.        

 Winter Warmth  
J. Patrick Lewis

This little book is cocoa.
  It warms me when it steams,
And from its toasty pages
 Spiral my marshmallow dreams.

Round, written by Joyce Sidman and illustrated by Taeeun Yoo. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Raincoast. 2017. $24.99 ages 2 and up

"Some swell
into roundness:

budding,
      ripening,
stretching
      toward the sun.

Some are
a different shape
to begin with ... "

I am sorry that there was a glitch in my attempts to schedule the previous two posts. I think that is fixed now, and you should be receiving three posts today, despite my best efforts for that not to happen. On we go!

In this ode to the round shape, we learn why the author is so deeply attached to it. The poetic, clear
language is perfect for helping young readers understand the concept of roundness and invites them to think clearly and carefully about why they might feel the same as the narrator does.

The softness of the shape is captured beautifully by both author and illustrator. Expressive wording and peaceful scenes provide much to admire about this new picture book which is framed in love for the natural world. We are invited to explore all the child finds as we move from page to page. Child and parent spend an entire in nature's beauty as they explore together from morning to night.

The final three spreads are just lovely - one is a circle of friends lying on the ground beneath autumn leaves, holding hands, while the second shows the little girl who has been our guide, snuggled under a warm blanket and surrounded by her pets and books. The final is a warm hug - the best example of a perfect circle you can get. What better places are there to be?

Backmatter is found on two pages meant to help readers understand why we find so many round things in nature. Just one of the reasons is:

"Round is balanced. Spheres hold the most volume with the least amount of surface area. Thus, bubbles and water droplets naturally form spheres as their surface tension contains the force of the air or water inside them. Planets are round because gravity pulls equally from the planet's central core to every point on its outer surface."

There you have some of  the science!  

Lila and the Crow, by Gabrielle Grimard. Annick Press, 2016. $21.95 ages 5 and up

"The third day, Lila goes to school wearing her cap and a sweater with a very, very high neck that she pulls up over her chin. Nathan peers at her for a moment. Then he shouts: "A crow! A crow! The new girl's eyes are dark like a crow!" A few others laugh, quietly at first. Then more children ... "

Wouldn't it be lovely if there was some sort of magical solution that led to the end of bullying at school, in the workplace, on the street and in the home? No matter how we try, it is very difficult to bring that kind of behavior to an end. One of the ways I think we can help all people understand its impact is through story. Encouraging empathy toward those characters children meet in the stories we share is a step toward understanding and change.

Lila is a beautiful little girl who is new to her school. She is very excited to be there. The fact that she doesn't look 'the same' as the others is just the impetus needed for one of her classmates to begin making fun of her and results in bullying behavior. They call her a crow because of her dark hair, dark eyes and shade darker skin.

"On the way home, Lila's heart is heavy as a stone.
A crow perches on the branch of an old oak tree,
its feathers as black as Lila's hair.

It caws and croaks as if it wants to tell
her something, but Lila just walks by."

It is not unusual at all that Lila tries to make herself less visible. She does so by wearing a knit cap. Nathan does not let up. Not do those who follow like sheep. A sweater with a high neck does nothing to deter his taunting the following day, nor do dark glasses.

"She plays alone at recess and sits
by herself at lunch. After school,
she runs home as quickly as she can."

Weeks pass, the crow that keeps her company on her way home from school is still there ... finally, after a fall that has her seeing it face to face, Lila is surprised:

"She's surprised to see how beautiful its black feathers are, highlighted with purple. There's softness
in the eyes of the creature watching her ... "

With unwitting help from the crow and its flock, Lila is able to find a solution to the sadness she has been feeling and the treatment she has been receiving ... just in time for the 'great autumn festival'.

The images created in watercolor by Gabrielle Grimard are perfectly in keeping with the story told.
Lila's red dress ensures that the readers' attention is always focused on her, her reactions, her movements. We note the isolation she consistently feels, and also her resilience. It is so important for kids to be proud of who they are and of what makes them special. Any book that helps one child see that can be an inspiration to others. Will it make those who hear it kinder? We can only hope that it does.
                                                                                

How to Find a Fox, by Nilah Magruder. Feiwel and Friends, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2016. $19.50 ages 3 and up

"Maybe
you
need
a
change
of
perspective.

Climb a tree."

I'm sure you know the tenacity that young children can bring to getting something that is important to them. They are so persistent and focused on a project, a game, the search for a fox. A fox? Well sometimes, I guess.

The small girl in this charming picture book is intent on finding a fox, and she sets about telling us just how to do it for ourselves. Who knew the fox would be just as resolute in avoiding being discovered as she is in finding him? But, she is and she does not want to give up even though he is so elusive.

Her first person voice is strong as she gives careful instructions to readers. There are many things we must do if we really want to find a fox.

"Find a fox hole.
Any fox hole will do.
The best foxes are at home
when you visit."

The wily creature who so carefully follows the little one as she searches is obviously not one of the 'best'. He is not at home, and not at all amenable to being seen. She sets a trap (a chicken leg) and waits. A long wait, watching ants and having a ladybug crawl on her, offers fatigue but no reward. Readers will be quick to point out loudly that the fox snaps up the bait as soon as she leaves to formulate another plan. Sneaky little devil!

I can just hear early years listeners yelling instructions to the young hunter. They will not be able to contain themselves! The child does not respond to their guidance, plodding forward and always on the lookout, even though the fox is often in plain sight. When she finally spies him from high up on a tree limb, she is quick to descend - but, not quick enough. He is gone by the time her feet hit the ground.

When you know he is lost to you, she suggests you express your dismay with great care. Then, lie down and let your disappointment wash over you. That might just be the ticket. Sometimes, just sometimes, the fox is meant to find YOU!

Appealing characters, an engaging story line, and a hint of humor will have young listeners wanting to hear this story again.                                                       

Gary, by Leila Rudge. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2016. $23.00 ages 4 and up

"Gary loved hearing about their adventures. He would perch nearby and record everything in his scrapbook. But one night, Gary leaned too far on his perch. And lost his balance. Gary and his scrapbook fell down to the bottom of the loft.  And they both landed in the travel basket with a bump. The next day was race day ... "

Gary is not at all like the other racing pigeons. He does live with them, he appreciates their adventures. Gary must live vicariously through them; Gary can't fly. We don't know why, and that really doesn't matter.

Gary is a huge supporter of the birds who share his loft. He loves to listen to their stories of the places they have been and the things they have seen. He is just like them most of the time.

"He ate the same seeds.
Slept in the same loft.
And dreamed of adventure."

On racing day, he is nothing like them at all. In fact, one evening just before a race Gary has an accident and falls into the transport basket. He is there the next day when the other pigeons travel to their drop-off point. He is there when they set off on their race course. And, he is there when they are gone and he is alone, wondering if he will ever get back home.

Luckily, he has his scrapbook with him. He has collected all of its keepsakes while listening to the others share their many adventures. It is not only reassuring for Gary, it provides something else that proves handy for a pigeon trying to find his way home. It acts like a map that leads him home. It matters not that flight is not his method of travel ... his adventure is quite glorious. Gary is a learner. Nowhere is that better displayed when he shares his story with his loft mates. Following that, there are the days when the others want to be just like Gary!

Using mixed media to create the quiet images displayed here, Ms. Rudge allows her readers a look at the sport of pigeon racing and of the value of maps. Collage work gives the maps and mementos an authentic feel, and our eyes are consistently drawn to the movement displayed.

Shawn Loves Sharks, written by Curtis Manley with pictures by Tracy Subisak. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2017. $24.99 ages 5 and up

"On Monday, Ms. Mitchell told the class they would each learn about a different predator. Shawn leaped out of his chair and yelled,

I  get the shark! I get the shark!"

Shawn is obsessed with sharks. All you have to do is look at the title page: he is wearing a shark suit, he is reading a lengthy tome concerning sharks, his bed is piled high with research books to add to his store of knowledge, his lamp shade is covered in shark images, his clock has the shape of a shark, and there is a SHARKS RULE! poster on the wall. He loves everything about them.

At school, he impersonates a shark at recess and scares as many people as he can with his loud 'chomping' sounds. So, when a research report is announced concerning predators, the only subject Shawn wants is ... you guessed it - SHARKS! Imagine his aversion to learning about a Leopard Seal, when that is the predator name he draws. Stacy, the most frightened victim of his playground shark attacks gets the shark.

No matter the enticement, Stacy is adamant the shark is her report to do. Shawn worries Stacy will learn too much about a shark's preferred prey - and she does. Stacy does her best to intimidate the seal researcher. Shawn is undeterred as he learns all that he can learn about seals.

"The more Shawn read about seals, the more he loved them. He loved their streamlined shape and the patterns on their smooth fur. He loved their big brown eyes. He loved their sharp little teeth ... "

Stacy, for her part, is doing the same thing, and adds chasing Shawn to her list of daily duties. He chastises her for not being able to catch a seal, and watches her reaction to his insult. Before long, he does a turnabout and offers the hand of friendship.

Engaging and entertaining artwork adds to the fun. This book would be perfect as an introduction to research projects in a classroom where they are a goal for students.
                                                                              

Big Blue Forever: The Story of Canada's Largest Blue Whale Skeleton, by Anita Miettunen. Red Deer Press, Fitzhenry and Whiteside. 2017. $24.95 ages 8 and up

"Every bone is cleaned. Every bone is counted. Every bone is labeled. But wait a minute, there are missing bones! The whole left flipper is gone! The scientists are stunned. How can they rebuild a skeleton if a giant piece is missing? Then they discover chain saw marks. "Maybe when the whale washed ashore, somebody sawed off one flipper," someone guesses."

Based on a true story, this book is sure to be a hit with readers who love knowing more about whales. Big Blue washed up on a Prince Edward Island shore in 1987. Her size was a huge surprise to those who found her, and to the officials who needed to decide what to do with her. Their decision was made to bury her in the red clay in hopes that, sometime in the future, scientists could use her skeleton to learn more about blue whales. They are a rare species.

Twenty years later a British Columbia scientist and his team arrived to dig her up. They were astounded at what they found:

"The island soil has preserved the whole whale. Her skin is still blue! And there is a terrible smell! But the scientists are excited that they have found the whale."

They return in late spring to bring her out of the soil. Once the stinky skin and blubber are removed, they work tirelessly to gather all the bones so people can see it and also be astounded by 'the skeleton of the largest animal that ever lived'.

What labor intensive work it is! Once all bones have been found and packed, they are transported to British Columbia where a giant crane is used to lift the biggest ones. Before reassembling the whale they must get rid the bones of the stench that remains. More work begins ... until it finally finds a home at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum at UBC in Vancouver.

The rest of the book provides thoughts on how Big Blue died, the full story of the discovery, a list of the scientists who worked on her reconstruction, and additional blue whale facts including  the many attempts being made to save these majestic giants. An author's note and a list for further reading are also added.

Bear Likes Jam, written and illustrated by Ciara Gavin. Alfred A. Knopf, Random House. 2017. $22.99 ages 3 and up

"Sometimes Bear even
snuck jam when he knew
he wasn't supposed to.
Mama Duck was worried.
Big bears need a balanced
diet, she said.
So Bear showed her how
well he could balance.
But Mama Duck was firm:
no more jam until Bear
ate his vegetables."

Bear has had other adventures with the Duck family (Room for Bear, 2015; Bear Is Not Tired, 2016).
If you haven't met them yet, you must check them out! They are quite the family, and sure to elicit giggles from their audience.

In this third tale (and before it even begins), we see that Bear is at the grocery store with Mama and the ducklings when he tastes jam for the first time. It's similar to the feeling that my two granddogs had when they tasted bacon! You just can't get enough. Bear knows that feeling immediately, hugging multiple jars to his fairly large chest. He is completely astonished that he has no previous knowledge of JAM. His love for it makes him quite rude - sharing goes out the window and so does listening to Mama. That creates concern.

Mama sets out new rules:

"At dinner, strange green things appeared
on Bear's plate. Bear poked at it.
He piled it.
He flattened it out.
But he was very, very careful not to taste any of it."

Bear longs for jam! Those conniving ducklings use games to help Bear develop a taste for veggies. Soon, he is willing to balance his meals, to the great delight of his duckling siblings - and his mama.

 As in previous books, Ciara Gavin imbues her characters with peaceful cohabitation. She uses ever-changing formats for her images and fills them with humor, love and a very important lesson. Don't miss the endpapers!  

I have great admiration for this unique and loving family! I hope it won't be long until we meet again.

NOPE! A tale of first flight. Written and illustrated by Drew Sheneman. Viking. Penguin. 2017. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"A nurturing mama,
a fearful baby,
and a nest in a
tall, tall tree.

Ready,
       set,
             soar!
                         NOPE!"


Every summer I sit in my back porch and watch a pair of robins do their best to raise their family in a small nest that rests atop a wire leading from the lane to the house. The nest has been there for four years. This past summer, there were two families! I am always checking to watch the babies poke their heads over the edge, share the food being so carefully brought to them in hopes that I will see them fledge. I have only seen that happen once. No matter how often I check, how quietly I sit, or how long I wait, I'm rarely there for that first flight. Darn it!

Luckily, while those babies may have some cause for concern, they always leave the nest. I hope they don't face the dangers that this baby bird sees as deterrents to his ability to find his own way. First, it's the drop. He seems prepared. It is a LONG drop if his wings won't hold him up. NOPE! he tells his mama.

Loving and patient, she does her best to encourage him. But what about that cat at the base of the tree? It certainly looks menacing, and ready for lunch. The young one reassesses his position, with a head shake, a knock on the side of the head and an even closer look. Three slavering wolves have taken the cat's place. ABSOLUTELY NOT! Thoughts about what else could transpire only makes it worse!

 

Mama hugs, cajoles, and finally does what all mothers must do in helping their babies find their way - she kicks him to the curb! What happens next is pure rapture for those concerned, including young readers.

Wordless, not exactly. Filled with emotion, action, imagination and drama, it sure is! Drew Sheneman hits it out of the park with his first picture book. My little girls are going to love it; so, it has already found a place in their book cupboard. YEP!                                                                      

Are You An Echo? The Lost Poetry of Misuzu Kaneko. Narrative and translation by David Jacobson, Sally Ito and Michiko Tsuboi. Illustrated by Toshikado Hajiri. Chin Music Press. 2016. $28.50 all ages

"Waves are children
laughing and holding hands.
Together, they come.

Waves are erasers
wiping away words
written on the sand."

I am so thankful to David Jacobson for making the arrangements necessary for me to pick up a copy of Are You An Echo? at McNally Robinson Books in Winnipeg. I have been remiss in getting this post done in an appropriate length of time. That has nothing to do with the book's impact on me. I have read it many times, and am astonished by the story it tells, the beauty of the poetry, and the path taken to get it to publication.

So today, on the 6th anniversary of the Tohoku tsunami, is perfect time to share it with you. I have never seen such a book. It is the picture book biography of a much loved Japanese children's poet, revered by her people and not well-known beyond Japan's borders. It is such a pleasure to post it today, as one of her poems had a tremendous impact on the Japanese following the devastation of the earthquake and the resulting chaos it brought to Japan's shores.

Here it is:

"ARE YOU AN ECHO?

If I say, ""Let's play?"
you say, "Let's play!"

If I say, ""Stupid!"
you say, "Stupid!"

If I say, "I don't want to play anymore,"
you say, "I don't want to play anymore."

And then, after a while,
becoming lonely

I say, "Sorry."
You say, "Sorry."

Are you just an echo?
No, you are everyone."

It was included in a televised public service announcement meant to encourage those dealing with devastation and loss. Her poem gave people hope and brought comfort when it was so badly needed, and ensured that her children's poetry would never be forgotten. 

What a truly stunning collaboration! It began with David wanting to publish Misuzu's poetry. He had been able to read her work in Japanese, a gift from friends. In researching her work, he met Kaneko enthusiast Setsuo Yazaki, whose patience and persistence through a sixteen year search found her brother and pocket diaries that contained 512 poems, most of which had never been published. How was that possible?

It was felt that Setsuo's search should be included in the project. Voila, a picture book biography seemed the best way to share the young poet's life and her work, bringing her to the world beyond Japan. Her poetry needed to be an integral part of the book. Translators and an illustrator were invited to join the project and this gorgeous book is the result of a very special collaboration.

It is an honest book, told elegantly and with children in mind, despite the sadness of the illness and tragic marriage that led her to take her own life at 26. It is handled with care and compassion, and is an integral part of her full story. Ten poems are included within the text of the book, and 15 are added in back matter, written in both Japanese and English. Empathy and love of natural world are at the heart of the poems included. They read beautifully; a testament to the care, dedication and time taken to get the translations 'right':

"had to skillfully work our way through both languages, often producing several versions of a poem by discussing them on Skype and through extensive emails – Michiko from Japan, Sally from Canada – to arrive at the best possible translations in English.”

Toshikado Hajiri matches the tone and beauty of Misuzu's poetry throughout, and I often returned to her images to bring awareness of setting, time and the great love she had for her daughter. There is so much joy between the two, making her final decision even more poignant and understandable.

I do hope that, as so often happens when I read a picture book biography that concerns someone I know little about, this book will encourage an interest in many to learn more about this gentle, memorable young woman.

"WONDER

I wonder why
the rain that falls from black clouds
shines like silver.

I wonder why
the silkworm that eats green mulberry leaves
is so white.

I wonder why
the moonflower that no one tends
blooms on its own.

I wonder why
everyone I ask
about these things
laughs and says, "That's just how it is."

"SNOW PILE

Snow on top
must feel chilly,
the cold moonlight piercing it.

Snow on the bottom
must feel burdened
by the hundreds who tread on it.

Snow in the middle
must feel lonely
with neither earth nor sky to look at."
                                                                            

The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life. By Kwame Alexander. Illustrated and with photographs Tby Thai Neave. Houghton MIfflin Harcourt, Raincoast. 2017. $20.99 ages 10 and up

"Rule # 24

IF YOU GET NERVOUS
DON'T SWEAT IT.
JUST FULL-C0URT PRESS
YOUR FEARS
AND KEEP
IT
MOVING."

Kwame Alexander, as he has done so brilliantly in the past, uses sport to entice middle graders and encourage reading. He uses basketball to motivate his readers to become better people by sharing quotes, poetry and genuine enthusiasm for what they can learn from other successful people.

Separated into four sections (in keeping with the four quarters of a basketball game), with 13 rules for each, he names them Grit, Motivation, Passion, and Teamwork and Resilience. He uses his poems to inspire and motivate his young readers to be the best they can be. He even addresses Overtime with
a look at Lew Alcindor's story, and makes mention of others who have defied the odds of being a star in their sport.

"Rule # 19

WHEN YOU'RE HOT, SHOOT.
WHEN YOU'RE NOT, PASS.
CHAMPIONS HIDE
THEIR WEAKNESSES
WITH THEIR STRENGTHS."
And then he adds a quote:

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what
you can.

    -Arthur Ashe, number one world tennis player
(ATP rankings), winner of three Grand Slam titles."

It's a great design, featuring brilliant and appealing black and white photographs and illustrations, often accented with the familiar basketball orange. Perfect for a return read and worthy of our attention. Reluctant middle grade readers, sports fans, and anyone who knows Kwame Alexander's other works will find much to love about this new book! A great gift for a student athlete on your list, or a classroom library.

When the Rain Comes, written by Alma Fullerton and illustrated by Kim LaFave. Pajama Press, 2016. $19.95 ages 5 and up

"Today she will learn
to plant those seedlings.

Over the next few months
they will grow strong
and bring food and fortune
to her village.
But what if

she does it wrong?"

A much anticipated sound awakens Malini! The ox cart driver is finally here with his very important load of rice seedlings. The rice is ready to plant; Malini is ready to help with that planting. The driver asks the young girl to 'keep an eye' on his ox while he takes a needed break. Malini is a bit frightened by its size and strength, but she takes the responsibility to heart and watches carefully. So carefully, in fact, that when the rains suddenly pound down causing flash flooding, she knows that she must take action.

Wishing she could hide from the swirling water, and knowing that the bullock driver cannot get to her through it, she takes matters into her own hands. The ox is terrified. It is up to Malini to get the cart to safety or their livelihood and their food will be gone.

"She TUGS
             TUGS
                   TUGS
on the rein
until the ox follows her
through the rising water.

UP
       UP
              UP
the hill to Baba's barn.

Inside, she pulls the door closed."

Although she is frightened herself, she realizes that she must provide calm for the frantic animal. What a brave girl!

Readers will relate to Malini's emotions, and feel great relief when her bravery ensures safety and success. Kids will happily accept an invitation to share their own stories of being afraid, and of acts of bravery.

Kim LaFave masterfully captures every nuance of the story through use of color and motion. They fully support the mood created by Ms. Fullerton's telling free verse text. An author's note places the story in Sri Lanka and provides plenty of interesting information about the island nation and the people who live there. Knowing more about the children of the world, their culture and the lives they live is cause for celebration.    

Sam Sorts (One Hundred Favorite Things), written and illustrated by Marthe Jocelyn. Tundra, Random House. 2017. $22.99 ages 3 and up

"Spider Rock joins the other rocks. Sam's favorite rock is the round one. He looks for more round things. Two of the buttons are exactly the same. What else comes in twos?
Another way Sam makes a pair is by finding a rhyme. Some things match ... "

One of my favorite books to use when teaching kindergarten was Marthe Jocelyn's wonderful Hannah's Collections (Tundra, 2004) as it helped my kids understand the concept of bringing a group of 100 things to school to share with their friends. Perfect for the 100th day of school!

In this new book, we meet Sam. Sam knows a little bit about making a mess. Like many other children (including my own who loved building forts with every imaginable usable thing), he is not so keen on cleaning up. I mean, it's a big pile. It is, however, his job.

So, he begins. First he sorts by number. There is one robot, two dinosaurs and so on ... Then, he collect up all the animals in the pile. It sets him to wondering about even bigger numbers. How many legs are there? A Venn diagram allows for more sorting, while also finding items that belong in two categories.

We watch him as he sorts, which leads to thinking mathematically in such variety that children are sure to come up with some ideas of their own. That is the real pleasure in sharing this book. It encourages independent thought, and shows each one of us what sorting is all about ... whether by number, color, rhyme, similarities. The fun goes on and on, and we are the delighted readers who get to share it.

"Some things float and some things fly!

Things without wings that fly

Things with wings that fly

Things with wings that don't fly "

The paper collage artwork is as much fun as the text is. It is so skillfully executed that artistic kids will want to try a hand at collecting "stuff'" for their own sorting ideas, and will encourage their friends to help.

Set theory has never been so much fun!

What Color is the Wind? Written and illustrated by Anne Herbauts. Translated from the French by Claudia Zoe Bedrick. Enchanted Lion Books, Publiishers Group Canada. 2016. $28.95 ages 5 and up

"So the little giant asks
the rain, What color is
the wind?

The rain knows nothing.

But the bees are buzzing:
the wind is the color of
sunshine.

A stream runs by."

Our blizzard continues. The snow has stopped falling, but has no choice but to be blown about by high winds that still make seeing across the street tough at times. The drifts are high. As soon as they are shovelled away, the sidewalks fill in immediately. So, I went looking for a book about wind to share with you today.

Little did I know that I would find this one, read it again, and be just as stunned by its beauty as I was the first time I read it. I also made even more discoveries about its content upon returning to its pages. The boy you see on the front cover is blind. He wants to know the color of the wind. As often happens when asking a question that seems impossible to answer, he is surprised that the wind is seen in so many different colors by those he asks.

Animals have a say, as do trees, bees, and finally, a giant.

"The little giant comes upon someone
he senses is enormous.
What color is the wind?

And the enormous giant,
with a slow gesture says:
The color of the wind?

It is everything at once.
This whole book.

Then he takes the book and,
thumb against its edge,
he lets the pages fly.

The little giant feels the wind
and its gentleness."

How beautiful!

That is not all. This is a book that puts to bed the idea that children (and adults) have no need for real books. No electronic book could ever have the impact that this book has for its readers. It is too enticing not to follow in the giant's footsteps and let the pages fly. Thus, readers see the rainbow of colors described in the book's pages, and they also feel the lovely breeze. It is a book filled with sensory pleasures. Touch is the most noticeable as the cover has Braille dots, and many of the interior pages are embossed, textural, and an invitation to feel what you might not readily see.

Filled with color and gorgeous artwork, this is a book with many answers to a single question about the wind.  It is a treat for the senses and inspiring on all counts!

Best In Snow, by April Pulley Sayre. Beach Lane Books, Simon and Schuster. 2017. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"Another freeze.

Another b r e e z e.

Another cloud.

It snows.

And another snowflake
lands ... "

Our newspaper this morning calls it a 'winter wallop'. Forecasters on television and on Facebook are calling it a 'significant snow storm'. As I looked out my front window at the gloom and fog, I noticed a new book in my mailbox. I am always keen to see what has arrived in the morning mail, so out I went to get the book, and the rest of the mail. Surprise ... it felt quite warm yet. No wonder they are saying we will have freezing rain first. Another surprise ... the book is called BEST IN SNOW. What are the chances? Thanks to everyone at Simon & Schuster for sending it to me so that I can share it with you.

It is quite stunning, and that is no surprise. I am a huge fan of Ms. Sayre - her incredible photography, and her skill with scientific writing. I wish I could do just one of those things as proficiently as she does both. This companion to her fabulous Raindrops Roll (Beach Lane, 2015) is a book that deserves a place in school and personal libraries. The verse is as exquisite as the beauty found in her magical images of a world covered with the 'white stuff'.

I have to admit that I don't mind that we are expecting snow today. It is, after all, early March and not the least bit unusual to have a storm at this time of year. Maybe it's because I'm retired and I don't need to be out in it; I think it has more to do with the beauty of the season. Despite the cold temperatures associated with it's arrival, there is also such splendor. Ms. Sayre is not immune to that. Her photographs are inviting and telling. Imagine the child who has never experienced snow seeing it through this accomplished artist's eyes! 

The closing two-page spread shares the 'secrets of snow' in short paragraphs that follow along with the included text and explain the way snow falls and forms.

"Wind sifts. Snow drifts.

On extremely cold, sunny days, snow may sparkle as it falls. Snow sparkle is light that bounces off the flat faces of snow and ice crystals. Older fallen snow constantly changes. Wind scours the snow's surface. It lifts fine snow particles, sorts them, and moves them to new places. Wind-driven snow may pile up, forming drifts."

A resource list for further reading is also included.

Snow is on our radar today, and there is nothing for us to do but enjoy its beauty - and stay off windblown highways! Be safe if you have to travel. Stay home if you can.
                                                                

Over and Under the Pond, written by Kate Messner with art by Christopher Silas Neal. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2017. $23.99 ages 5 and up

"Over the pond, the shadows of trees lean out from the shore. We coast under a low-hanging branch. A moose looks up with a mouthful of water lilies. We've interrupted his lunch. Under the pond, beavers dive deep. They pump with powerful tails and rise to the surface with delectable roots from the mud. Over the pond, the wind gives a push and stirs the light-dappled leaves on shore. There on a branch ... "

If you were lucky enough to read Over and Under the Snow (Chronicle, 2011) and Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt (Chronicle, 2015), you are going to be very happy to see this companion book about a pond habitat. Kate Messner carefully goes about sharing the quiet stillness of a day in the life of this splendid habitat.

A boy and his mother are out in their rowboat; the boy is sharing his thoughts and impressions of this shared outing. He expresses his fascination with his surroundings, and asks questions about life under the pond's surface. The two take note of what they see over the pond, and then imagine the many wonders hidden from sight.

So many lovely scenes are described for us, and shown in mixed-media artwork that quietly surveys the pond and its environs, the wildlife that makes its home there and the appeal of the water, above and below its surface.

From high above, we get a bird's eye view of the mother and son in their rowboat:

"Over the pond we drift, heads tipped up to the sun.
A woodpecker clings to a teetering pine, digging
for ants."

And then from the bottom of the pond we watch a web-footed marvel:

"Under the pond, an otter claws for
freshwater mussels."

The day changes from early morning light, to bright afternoon sunshine, to the deep orange and purple darkness of sunset as the two paddle taking around in the beauty of their surroundings, making new discoveries at every turn.

In back matter, an author's note describes the pond ecosystem: "an interconnected community of organisms that interact with one another and with their environment"; and speaks of the inspiration for writing this fascinating and informative book. She follows up with short paragraphs about each of the included animals, birds and insects, as well as a list for further reading.

A must-have for your nonfiction shelf!