Sun in My Tummy, written by Laura Alary and illustrated by Andrea Blinick. Pajama Press, 2022. $22.95 ages 4 and up

 

"Those oats grew tall and green, 
then turned to gold. 
Hidden inside were all the things
that had made them grow. 

Clouds. Rain. Soil. Sun. 
They're hard to see. But look deeper. 
Everything is there."

After far too many days without sun, people who live in wet and soggy Manitoba can attest to the leap in energy and joy that comes with long, sunny spring days! We are basking in the warmth for as long as it lasts. 

As the day begins for our young girl and her mother, there is a reluctance on her part to leave her warm and cozy bed. Leave it she must. Mama is making oatmeal, a gift from the sun. It isn't long since those oats were planted in a field, warmed by the sun, encouraged to grow by rain, harvested and made into the oats for the breakfast that begins this new day. 

The oatmeal is not the only part of her breakfast. There are also blueberries, encouraged to grow in the warmth of sunshine and providing sustenance for birds and animals, as well as the people who pick them. Don't forget the milk! The cow who gives the milk chomped the grass that grew thanks to the power of the sun, rain, and soil. 

"Inside everything, 
if you look 
deep enough, 
you will find 
the sun."

The second-person narrative is soothing and informative as it includes instruction on plant life cycles, food webs, and photosynthesis. It provides a clear and logical explanation for a complex process, and leaves young readers with an easy awareness for the breakfast foods that sustain them during their day. Questions are asked, comparisons are made - all with the purpose of helping young children know the importance of the sun. After a filling and healthy breakfast, the girl is off to catch her school bus with sun in her tummy.  

Andrea Blinick's mixed-media artwork is filled with the sunlight that benefits all. From making its appearance at dawn to its growing brilliance as mother and daughter tuck into their nutritious meal, the sun is always in the background doing its amazing work. Many lovely details on each spread will encourage further attention and discussion. The cow literally floating in her cereal bowl will elicit tiny giggles. 

An author's note further explains photosynthesis for readers.  

"So anytime you take a breath, or have a snack, or sit down for a meal, thank green plants and the sun for making it all possible."