"Though tattered and tired,
it now felt inspired
to do what a seed's meant to do.
As soil hugged its skin,
the seed snuggled in
for a long winter's rest.
Then it grew."
There are three stories told here. Each one connects the reader to the resilient growth found in natural surroundings. A single seed is the subject of each story. One is a cherry seed in the Middle East; the next an acacia seed in Australia; finally, a lotus seed in Asia. While seeds know exactly what they are going to be, it is not always evident to those who see or find them while exploring nature. Seeds are capable of amazing things wherever they are found.
"Still Nature is smart
and has a big heart
for helping a lost seed to be found.
She likes problem-solving,
adapting, evolving,
and turning the trouble around."
The cherry seed is picked up by a bird and dropped in a creek. Stuck in the muck, it finally travels by rushing water to place where it can survive and grow. The acacia seed is picked up by ants, carried down into the nest, and left there with little chance of surviving. Luckily, time spent in the nest prevents it from being burnt in a fire that destroys the surrounding acacia grove. The lotus seed survives an earthquake and the drought that follows. Each is persistent and insistent that it will be what it is meant to be.
Though the poetry does not offer a further story, Nicole Wong adds interest and context in her renderings of a serene aftermath. The cherry tree grows alongside a stream where families enjoy picnics and pick the cherries from its branches. The acacia becomes part of reforestation following the fire. The lotus finds life much later (one hundred years!) when the lake returns to its former state.
Welcome back matter adds notes for kids about nature, the seeds mentioned here, and survival. A plant physiologist discusses seeds and seed banks. A short note is included about both author and illustrator.
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