Time Is Wild: The Life Cycles of Animals and YOU. Written by Erin Silver and illustrated by Samantha Dixon. Orca Book Publishers, 2026. $21.95 ages 6 and up

"A mother elephant gives birth every five 
years, to one baby at a time. Most moms 
have up to five babies in their lifetime. 

Elephant babies drink their mother's milk
for about two years. They suck their own 
trunks, just like a human baby might suck 
its thumb."

Orca continues to do a tremendous job of publishing nonfiction books that have real appeal to a wide range of readers. This very engaging and informative one compares animals and humans, by detailing the passage of time concerning stages of life. Each two-page spread explores differences and habits based on these topics: pregnancy, sleeping, breastfeeding, learning to walk, eating, bathing, pooping, dressing/undressing, losing teeth, moving, growing up, leaving home, and finally, dying. 

The design is concise and familiar. The verso (left) side introduces one animal in an enlightening paragraph. The recto (right) side offers THAT'S WILD! bulleted facts that feature additional material sure to surprise readers. At the edge of the recto side there is a comparison chart for the topic that includes the featured animal, a human, and two others. Illustrations are colorful, contextual, and pleasing. There is much to learn as readers consider the passage of time and the changes that happen. The book provides an invitation for readers to think about how the lives of animals compare to their own. 

New learning has me wanting to share with you some interesting facts. I will keep it to this list: a baby giraffe is born feet first and drops 5 feet to the ground at birth; alligators can go up to 3 years without eating; cats spend 13-16 hours a day sleeping; geese poop every 12 minutes; a peregrine falcon can spot small prey from up to 2 miles away; anacondas never stop growing; and one ocean quahog named Ming lived to be 507 years old! There is so much more for readers to share, and they will love passing new knowledge along to others. 

A useful glossary is appended. 
                                                                                  

Puffins, written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Maris Wicks. Raoring Brook Press, Mackids, Raincoast, 2026. $27.99 ages 5 and up

"Puffling peeps 
         and eats

and grows, 
        shedding its down 

for a sleek cape of gray. 

PEEP

But she's still very hungry. 

The action begins before the title page; an adult puffin circles in the air as it approaches a rocky shore where it lands with a bit of a bump on the ledge. It is the book's introduction to Maine's Eastern Egg Rock Island and a look at the shoreline as nesting season begins for this summer's puffin population. They are not the only seabirds, but they are abundant. 

It is a very noisy place and keeps them safe from land predators. Puffin mates meet, bill, and rub their beaks together. They have been here before. Inside 'a tent of boulders', the male makes the nest comfortable enough for the female to lay her first and only egg. Keeping that nest safe is the male's main responsibility, as both parents keep watch over the egg during its incubation. 

When that egg hatches, the puffling is ravenous! As Father Puffin broods, Mother Puffin flies off in search of food. She has all the features needed to dive deep, and fill her beak with the butterfish that are there to be captured. Unfortunately, the butterfish are too big for the puffling to swallow. 

"Warming waters have made butterfish
more plentiful than white hake

and herring, 

typical puffin prey.

It's still time to eat!"

The mother stays, and the father is off to gather sand lance for feeding their young. Without any warning, a herring gull swoops down to steal those fish from his beak. Father is undeterred, and heads back underwater to find herrings to satisfy his very hungry young one. As the puffling continues to grow, the parents often face danger as they do their best to keep it flourishing. 

The puffling becomes a Little Puffin, ready to fledge. She now faces her own dangers as she journeys to the rocky ledge, and looks out over a moonlit ocean. Little Puffin is now on her own to grow into an adult puffin, living only at sea for years. She has everything she needs to thrive, including a raft of puffins all in the same place as she is ... until it is time to return to where her life began, find a mate, and start the cycle all over again. 

The information provided is very accessible to a young audience because of its strong and appealing illustrations, and its storybook feel. It is a most welcome and engaging way to pass along many carefully researched facts. Back matter includes further facts about puffins and an explanation of the research the author and illustrator did to make this wonderful book a reality. They also offer suggestions for learning more and helping out. 

For a special surprise, remove the dust jacket to uncover a wonderful surprise on the case wrap!                                                                                  

The Secret World of Seahorses, written by Nicola Davies and illustrated by Lou Baker-Smith. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 5 and up

 

"There are a lot of different kinds 
of seahorses. 

Some are knobbly. 

Some are spiky.

Most are small enough 
to fit in your hand.

And some are no bigger than 
the end of your little finger - 
so tiny that humans have only 
just noticed them." 

A secret world, indeed. Seahorses are not often seen, as they are very different from any other fish. Their ability to cling to coral and to change their color to avoid predators is quite remarkable. Only their eyes move as they search for food while also looking out for danger in their vicinity. They can be quick when needed, snapping up shrimp in mere seconds. Generally, they move about slowly and keep to themselves. 

Ms. Davies describes various kinds of seahorses; I had no idea. Not being able to see them has a lot to do with their habits. Unfortunately, the most notable reason has more to do with overfishing.

"An estimated 76 million are caught every year and turned into key rings and 
lucky charms or used to make teas and tonics." 

Their scarcity has to do with loss of habitat, poisoned by pollution and encroaching human activity. While letting readers know about the problems faced by these beautiful creatures, Ms. Davies lets them know that there are hopeful things happening as well. In Malaysia, Cambodia and England, efforts are being undertaken to offer protection and keep their environment safe. Any successful effort is sure to improve the ecosystem where seahorses play an important role. That news gives hope that more people will have a chance to 'see' a seahorse at some future time. 

In closing, she provides a lovely look at the mating dance that ends with the males carrying the eggs. He will do so for two weeks before giving birth to many new sea foals who will be there in the ocean, even if we can't see them. 

The text is informative and accessible for a young audience. Ms. Baker-Smith’s mixed-media artwork is full of color and movement, allowing readers to observe these delicate fish on a background of ocean blue. The coral reefs and seagrass meadows are very appealing and provide perfect opportunities for camouflage. Back matter on climate change and ways for families to help improve environmental concerns bring the book to an end. 
                                                                                       

When You See Us: The Mysterious World of Aquatic Insects, written by Katherine Hocker and illustrated by Svabhu Kohli. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 6 and up

 

"We are so small that we can hide under 
grains of sand, and in bedrock crevices, 
            or buried in mud. 

We love the dark. 
You won't see us then."

In an interview with Jena Benton at Simply 7, Katherine Hocker had this to say in answer to one of Jena's questions: 

 "I’ve been teaching and writing about aquatic insects for a long time. One of my favorite moments in my insect field trips comes when I’m with a group of students at the edge of what looks like a boring, muddy pond. We lower a net into the water, swirl it around a bit, then gently transfer the contents to a water-filled tray. Everyone gathers around… and suddenly what looked like a mess of dead leaves and sticks is swarming with amazing critters! It’s a moment of such delight and wonder as the students realize there’s a whole world they never knew about, just below the surface. And then to help them realize that most of those little crawlies will someday leave the water and take flight as familiar winged insects ... that’s the feeling I wanted to share in this book."

And share it she does, in poetic descriptive language that leaves readers with a close-up and personal look at what lives in the ponds, rivers and streams that are a part of their environment. She explains these mayflies, dragonflies, mosquitoes, and other insects spend most of their lives living underwater. She clearly shows the life cycles that begin on boulders, leaves, or even laid right on the water itself. 

Close-up illustrations show the hatching and growing process that results in their eating others or being eaten by predators. All the while, they are moving about the watery habitat that is their home. It is then that humans might catch a glimpse of them. When the time is right, they change again. Finding the perfect place to transform into the flying creatures they will become, they split their skins and find the freedom that is the sky. Readers are far more likely to see them now. Knowing the path they have taken to become what is now obvious, is fascinating and quite a lesson in the world of science.  

In back matter, the author adds further facts about aquatic insects, alongside thumbnail sketches of each of the seven types. She then shares instructions for finding such insects and observing them without harm to them or their surroundings. Instructions are also provided for capturing them temporarily in order to get an even closer look. Finally, she offers resources for learning more. 

Mixed media, digitally finished, illustrations complement the lovely language of the text at every turn. 

"When you see us, 
                  think of what we were 
                          and what we became.

                             Think of what you were
                                         and what you can become."                                                                                 

A Salmon Story: Protecting the Future, written by Willie Poll and illustrated by Chantelle Trainor-Matties. Owlkids, 2026. $22.95 ages 5 and up

"Their world gets bigger, and so do they ... 

The salmon are now called smelts. They've grown 
a lot but are still young and haven't reached full 
strength. At this point, they emerge into an estuary, 
a body of water where the stream's fresh water mixes
with the ocean's salt water."

Narration for this life cycle story, that also touches on the threats that salmon face as they make their way from hatching to final spawning, is clear and rhythmically shared in the voice of one salmon. It is third generation, and explains its purpose in this world and how when its life ends, it will watch from the spirit world the life cycle continue for thousands of years forward. 

Poetic text offers the tale of a salmon hatching beneath a waterfall, strong and ready to make its way in life. Newborns sustain themselves by consuming their nourishing yolk sac before heading out into the river. From alevin (newborns) to fry, they make their way toward the sea looking for food to sustain them. On this first part of the journey they smolt, and their scales turn to silver as they move from freshwater toward the sea's saltwater environment. 

At the same time, they become prey for animals like seals and eagles. In this estuary, they feed in preparation for a long journey. They also come upon large nets with trapped fish inside them. A fish farm is something new to the salmon, and they are not prepared for anything that blocks their travel.

"Human activity has changed salmon habitats and interfered 
with their long-established routes. One of the most harmful of these
activities is open-net pen fish farms - enclosures in the water where 
fish are kept and eventually sold to markets and restaurants."

Even if the salmon are not trapped there, they are exposed to the sea lice and viruses that are abundant near these fish farms. Healthy fish become sick; the salmon population lessens; orcas and bears that depend on salmon can no longer rely on the abundant food they once provided. Salmon carcasses, which once enriched the soil, have also diminished. 

Willie Poll, a Metis author and educator, has written an effective and informative book. Her poetic text is accompanied on each spread by further text in a smaller font that adds context and worthwhile facts. It is a call to readers and listeners to consider the threats faced by a keystone species and how it impacts nature and humans. Ms. Trainor-Matties accompanies the text with Northwest Coastal designs that show the salmon and wildlife found there. 

In final pages, there is a note from knowledgekeeper Lakal't (Tanina Williams) who speaks to the need to care for the salmon for future generations. Alongside her note is a list of words from her Lil'wat nation, words that she and members of her nation want to preserve and increase. Finally, a glossary offers an explanation for words used in the book's text.  

How To Hatch: A Gosling's Guide to Breaking Free, written by Sara Holly Ackerman and illustrated by Galia Bernstein. Alfred A.Knopf, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Step Two: PIP!

You're going to bust right through the shell. 
But lets's get a few things straight. 

You can't shatter a shell with 
webbed feet. And your knobby knees
are not nearly sharp enough. 

Your rump? Ridiculous!
That won't get you anywhere. 

Your mighty pipping muscle and your 
trusty egg tooth will get you out."

The text box that holds space on the recto side of this spread provides the following factual information for readers:

Inside the Shell 

The air in the air cell won't last forever. 
The gosling embryo needs air from 
outside the shell to live. The pipping 
muscle and the egg tooth go back to work. 
The beak strikes the shell until it makes a 
light crack or a small hole. 

Using a second-person voice to encourage the embryo of a brand-new gosling to make its way into the world is a brilliant choice for helping young readers understand just exactly how this incredible process works. Then, choosing to include sidebars on every spread as explanation for what is clearly happening at each stage makes it even more brilliant ... and compelling, accessible, and highly entertaining, while also very informative. 

Younger readers will appreciate the language that includes well-chosen descriptive words and verbs to encourage the gosling to do its hard work. The informative explanations for the true science of this life cycle will be appreciated by older listeners who want the facts. Both are sure to be satisfied with the direction the narrative takes from Step One (BREATHE!) through to Step Six (FLOP!). 

"Don't fret about the soggy down, but beware
of chills. Find a toasty spot, and before you 
know it, you'll be as dry as a dandelion puff."

Kids will be captivated from the front endpapers to the back ones. Galia Bernstein's digital images put the geese at the center of attention throughout the telling, offering plenty of white space on every page. If you are at all claustrophobic, you will be cheering from the initial sight of the gosling as it is all tucked up inside its shell. Watching it move, grow, and instinctively know exactly what it needs to do to exit its shell is fascinating. Watching it 'healthy, happy, hatched' offers real satisfaction. Now part of the gaggle, it closely follows its mother and siblings to the lake for a first swim.

A glossary of words for birds follows, as does an author's note for the grown-ups who will share this book, and a list of selected resources. Beautiful! It's sure to be a favorite.                                                                                  

Goose Egg Island, written by Julia Richardson and illustrated by Meneka Repka. Sleeping Bear Press. 2025. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"At the island's edge,
Goose locates last year's nesting spot. 
She sits, pushing her webbed feet 
while turning. Then lines the hole 
with twigs, leaves, and moss. Last, 
she plucks a fuzzy blanket from 
her chest." 

Young readers may not know that Canada geese are paired for life. On the opening spread, Goose and Gander break away from the flock and land on the island that is their home year after year. They spend time resting after their long migration; Gander watches with one eye while Goose sleeps. When intruders do their best to take their space, they are chased away. 

Spring arrives with sunshine and melting ice. The geese are able to paddle their pond and find food. The time comes for a new family. Goose finds their old nesting place and prepares it for the five eggs she will lay. To incubate those eggs, Goose sits and does nothing else while Gander keeps watch. Fox has no chance of getting close to the eggs. Goose does nothing but incubate; Gander does nothing but guard. 

The warmth of spring sunshine awakens green shoots to grow and bloom. The two geese continue their daily vigil. An excited puppy is no match for Gander who distracts the dog until it is too tired to play the chasing game anymore. Twenty-eight days of sitting and guarding leads to what they have been waiting for ... five sweet goslings to swim with their father, while Goose takes sustenance from the surrounding island setting. How pleased are these attentive parents! 

Through the summer, the geese grow and change in preparation for the migration that happens in the early fall. An author's note explains the joy inherent in watching each year as a pair of geese return to the pond, raise their family, and leave only to return the following year. She then includes further Fascinating Facts that she wants her readers to know. 

With carefully chosen text and repetition in some of the phrasing, Ms. Richardson provides a meaningful lesson for young readers. Colorful, detailed illustrations by Meneka Repka help with context and appeal. 

The Secret Life of a Sea Turtle, written by Maddalena Bearzi and illustrated by Alex Boersma. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2025. $26.99 ages 6 and up

 

"The surf casts a few of them back 
to the shore, where their struggle 
to reach the water continues. 

Others swim as fast as they can, 
catching a breath of air 
whenever possible. 

Finally, a wave arrives, scooping 
our turtle friend from the land ... 

and out to sea!"

A nature reserve on the Yucatan Peninsula provides the hatching ground for the turtle we follow as she makes her way out of her egg, then out of her nest with the help of every other tiny hatchling as they all move up. Once at the surface, she faces many other dangers before making it to the water. There is no safe place for her. 

Readers will be immediately captivated as they watch this tiny being do her very best to make it to the ocean; many will not survive this first stage in their journey. Zigzagging across the sand, she avoids those predators that 'prowl the shores' looking for a quick meal. One hundred babies have hatched; less than thirty will make it to the ocean. If they make it into the water, they have a home for life. Danger lurks as seabirds make quick work of the tiny morsels. Soon, less than ten are left to find their way farther from shore. Finding a meal to assuage her hunger after a few days in the water becomes easier. For coming years, there is little known about the turtle. 

Because it is told as a personal story about this one green turtle, readers will remain involved in learning what scientists know about what might be happening with her; how she breathes, what and how she eats, her growth, how she evades the shark's looming mouth. Unfortunately, underwater fishing nets are a huge threat to her survival. Once caught, she is rescued by marine biologists and released. At age 30, her internal compass takes her back to the beach where she was born to make her own nest, lay her eggs, and begin yet another cycle of life.

Ms. Bearzi writes with passion for her subject in clear and compelling prose that holds attention throughout the reading. Ms. Boersma's artwork is drawn with graphite and digitally colored to stun readers with changing perspectives and brilliant images that are emotional and complementary to every word written. What an incredible life story this is! 

Back matter includes an author's note, actions that readers can take to protect these wondrous creatures, an illustrated list of turtle species, further facts that encourage learning even more, acknowledgments, and a bibliography. 
                                                                              

Pearls in the Sand: Protecting Sea Turtles in Oaxaca, written and illustrated by Beatriz Gutierrez Hernandez. Godwin Books, Henry Holt, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2025. $24.99 ages 6 and up

 

"Tortugueros treasure the eggs;
each one is precious, like a 
pearl. Papa Grande explains
that too much movement 
could harm them. One 
tremble and a life is lost. We
must be careful but quick."

We are getting closer to celebrating Grandparents' Day next Sunday. This story tells how Gabriela and her Papa Grande work together on a conservation mission to save and protect sea turtles in their community. It begins at night as the two find their way to the beach where her grandfather and other tortugueros work tirelessly to care for the turtles and their survival. Papa Grande, once a turtle hunter and egg poacher, could no longer make a living when hunting was banned. Now, he works with those who understand the need for the survival of those same turtles. 

This is the first time that Gabriela has accompanied her grandfather. Together, they watch a mother turtle find a spot to lay her eggs. Without disturbing her, Papa Grande reaches out to collect her eggs and then transport them to a safe shelter. As they gather those eggs, they keep count and her grandfather keeps notes about the nidada (the eggs laid by this one turtle); the cooperative has now rescued one thousand of them. 

They must work quickly and carefully to ensure the safety of the eggs. At the hatchery, they will be transplanted to a new nest. Details are recorded to identify the date, type of turtle, and the rescuers. The work continues every day. Papa Grande explains the importance of the turtles in the ecosystem and other important facts as they work. The two are there when the tiny turtles emerge from the sand, and sprint to the shore. 

"Tortugueros say only one in a thousand 
babies make it to adulthood. There are 
dangers hiding outside our reach. From 
this small corner, tortugueros do what 
they can with what they have."

The author shows readers how these conservation experts have helped to ensure that the sea turtle populations increase. Her acrylic gouache and colored pencil artwork complements the text with clear images of the work being done. Backmatter provides an extensive glossary, the life cycle of sea turtles, a captioned map of the Oaxacan Coast, an author's note that speaks of her own personal experience with and curiosity about the turtles. Acknowledgements are included along with a list of additional resources to bring the book to an end. 

Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas. Written by Michelle Cusolito and illustrated by Ellen Rooney. Charlesbridge, Penguin Random House. 2025. $22.99 ages 8 and up

 

"June 27, 1899
        Day 7 

Most people wouldn't enjoy staring at a jar of 
tiny larvae, but Maude studies them every day.
Some have attached to the jar! Will they become 
adults?

The year is 1899. The place is Ireland's rugged coast. Maude Delap is out for a row, collecting scientific specimens. Without any training in science (at the time she was expected to spend her life as a wife and mother), she has learned enough to be an expert about the marine life of the North Atlantic Ocean where she lives. 

On this particular day, Maude captures a compass jellyfish. Little is known about them, and no one has ever kept one alive through its entire life cycle. Maude wants to change that. Her lab (the Department) has a distinct marine odor. There, she conducts her work when she has nothing else of importance to be doing for her family. 

It is great good luck that Maude discovers tiny specks in the water. Larvae, called planulae, hold Maude's attention day after day. As she carefully watches, they become polyps while Maude sketches their changes. Through it all, she collects fresh seawater to keep their environment viable for growth and development. It is hard work. She learns about their preferred diet, and continues to keep them alive by rowing through the blustery winter and in freezing water. 

Nearly nine months later, they begin to change shape again. 

"She watches as one polyp shivers and wiggles. 
Its tentacles shrink and the tube turns pink. Five 
rings form like belts cinched too tight around the 
animal's body. The rings separate into a stack of 
lacy-looking layers."

They pump and pop! until a tiny jellyfish releases itself from the stack and pushes off. It happens again and again. Will Maude be able to keep them alive? Watching the biggest ephyra (adult jellyfish) eat all the smaller ones, Maude is astonished to be left with only one after all the work. After starting her diary and sketches on June 22, 1899 and watching the jellyfish grow from planulae to medusa, she continues to change the water daily and collect the kinds of jellyfish the medusa will eat. 

On July 8, 1900, the medusa has reached its full adult form; Maude is the first scientist to raise a jellyfish in captivity. She is not done yet. Next up - a blue jellyfish. The work begins once more. 

Back matter includes further facts about jellyfish, a short report on Maude's life and work, notes from both author and illustrator, a list of places for further learning and acknowledgements of those who helped with the research. 

Papilio, by Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor and Andy Chou Musser. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2025. $26.99 ages 3 and up

"She bursts out of her egg. 
Hello, world! thinks Papilio. 
Her tummy replies ... 

gurgle!"

"Tucked inside her cozy chrysalis, 
Papilio dissolves and turns into goo. 
Growing up sure is weird sometimes,
thinks Papilio." 

"I thought being a butterfly 
would be easy. 

But my wings feel big and 
strange." 

Three very creative friends collaborate to bring the story of the black swallowtail butterfly's life cycle to young readers. Each of the stages is presented by a different artist, starting with Ben Clanton. His part begins with the egg that is Papilio, and her transformation to caterpillar. As she chews through the leaf she has been clinging to, she suddenly finds herself dropping onto the ground below. It is not an easy descent and results in her rumbling tummy being interested in a brilliant red fruit she cannot reach. A wee mouse comes to her rescue, allowing a taste of that strawberry. 

With her belly full, she morphs into a chrysalis - and Corey R. Tabor takes the reins of the story. Warm and cozy, and attached to a tree branch, she becomes 'caterpillar soup', a second stage in the butterfly's growth cycle. A curious bird decides to make her its next meal. Inside the comfort of her chrysalis, she can hear birds' noise and is sent flying through the air. That mouse is back to save her once again, tying her to a branch so she can continue to wait and make the change needed. 

Patience helps; she finally emerges to the deft touch of Andy Chou Musser, the artist is charge of her transition to adult butterfly. What wonder awaits as her wings dry.  Assorted winged creatures aren't much help in explaining what is happening. There are dangers to avoid; her confidence takes a hit. When she is ready to fly, she cannot find any food. Guess who's back with the perfect solution? What a lovely friend! 

Each section exhibits a very personal touch while also keeping to the cohesiveness required to tell only one part of a life cycle. Their stories flow seamlessly from one section to the next. Their target audience will delight in the storytelling and learn cool scientific facts in the most charming way. In closing, 'a flutter of facts' is provided, as well as an author's note concerning the origin of the book. Then, each phase is described in personal notes from its creator. There is a final note about the collaboration itself and how it brought their initial idea to book form.  

Don't miss the butterfly's thank you to its dear mouse friend!

                                                                                         

One Long Line: Marching Caterpillars and the Scientists Who Followed Them, written by Loree Griffin Burns and illustrated by Jamie Green. mit KIDS Press. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $22.99 ages 7 and up

"The people are Jean-Henri Fabre, 
a Frenchman how died in 1915, 

and Terrence Fitzgerald, an American
who was born twenty-six years later in 1941. 

The fascinating conversations? Wordless. 
Because caterpillars can't talk, of course. 
And neither can men who worked and 
wondered in different centuries." 

This is the first book in a new series of early chapter books from two star players in the nonfiction world for kids and their reading interests. They turn the spotlight on processionary caterpillars (have you heard of them?) and the way they march. Jean Henri Fabre was first to take note of their unusual movement; then much later, Terrence Fitzgerald noted the same thing. Both were very curious and intent on learning as much as they could. 

The fact that both scientists spent much of their lives working toward discovery, despite the many years that passed between their research is quite the intriguing story. Loree Griffin Burns' text is perfect for young readers. She writes conversationally, and fills the pages with a story that shows them exactly how the scientific process works and how being curious about the world around us leads to some remarkable discoveries. 

Readers learn that if a pine processionary caterpillar is hungry, it will travel untold distances to find the food it needs. To that end, along with others, it makes its way in long, single-file lines. The two men whose research is shared lived in two different countries at two different times in history. That in itself makes for the most fascinating coincidence. Each was meticulous in their observations, questions, and experiments. 

I had no idea how interested I would be. The text is appealing, and the design includes sidebars and illustrations that further enhance the learning. The conclusion encourages anyone interested to find out more by using the same principles of scientific research. Back matter includes an informative glossary, websites for learning about the scientists, a list for further reading, source notes and a bibliography. What an amazing start to a promising series! 

"This is a story about unusual caterpillars, curious people, and fascinating conversations."

Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall, written by Lynn Brunelle and illustrated by Jason Chin. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House, 2024. $25.99 ages 6 and up

 

"It is the end of one story - the story of the 
whale's life. But it just the beginning of 
another story. 

The death of a whale awakens and ignites
a cascade of new life. 

An entirely new ecosystem will build around 
this singular whale's passing. Her body will 
provide shelter and food for millions of 
creatures for more than a hundred years.
A whole new world will arise. Scientists 
call this a whale fall. 

It starts right away."

There is much to learn as you make your way through this extraordinary book. Nature is an amazing subject and the story of a whale's death holds interest and intrigue from start to finish. I had no idea just how fascinating it would be. 

A whale swims close to the surface in late afternoon light, taking note of the 'massive pink cloud' above her. She surfaces with mouth wide open and traps an enormous number of krill in the thousands of gallons of seawater she pushes through the baleen back to the ocean.

"She swallows enough krill to fill a school bus." 

She is a blue whale and the wax in her ear canal tells scientists she is ninety years old. Her lifetime is measured right there. The author provides other important facts about the whale before explaining that today is different from other days; today is the day she dies. 

It is only the beginning of another very different story. Her death will build an ecosystem to feed and sustain many, many creatures for more than a hundred years. This is a whale fall, and the changes begin immediately. Scavengers react to the signals presented by the death and feast from above and below. Soon, the body begins to sink. 

What happens over the next hundred years is chronicled in unambiguous text that is accompanied by the distinctive watercolor and gouache artwork we have come to know in previous books by Jason Chin. The illustraions are accurate, yet quite beautiful, while showing the whale's beauty at the surface and then resting far below in the darkness of the deepest ocean. It is a remarkably well-researched and shared story. What a graceful way to show how death supports life, both in words and pictures. 

A Bit About Blue Whales, What Are Ecosystems? and It's a Phase provide further information and are followed by lists of print and web resources and a selected bibliography.   

Don't miss it! 

What's Inside a Bird's Nest? And Other Questions about Nature and Life Cycles, written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky. Crown Books, Penguin Random House. 2024. $26.99 ages 8 amd up

"Birds grow at different speeds. 

Most birds that nest in 
trees are born completely 
dependent on their parents. 

Birds that mature 
after hatching are 
called ALTRICIAL."

As a retired teacher/librarian, I truly appreciate Ms. Ignotofsky's dedication: 

Dedicated to librarians,
who create the perfect "nest"
for hatching young readers. 

At a time when librarians are facing constant bombardment to remove books from their shelves by the misinformed and ultra-conservative public, they need more support than ever by those who know the true value of the work they do. Kids know, and so do their parents and teachers. 

If you have a child or a student in your classroom who has a lasting interest in birds, this is a terrific book to share with them. The author begins with a double-page spread showing variety in nests and baby birds as they wait rather impatiently to be fed. The shape of each nest is unique to the bird described in carefully-placed captions that name the bird species and where it is found in the world. A great start, to be sure! 

A variety of birds is then shown in motion as they find food for those noisy babies. A gentoo penguin dives into the sea, a mute swan splashes across ponds, and a great horned owl hunts in moonlight. Nests are found in interesting places. A bird's life cycle is described from finding a mate, to building a nest, and laying the eggs that will develop into a baby bird. 

A close-up look at an egg on the inside is carefully drawn in cutaway images that show the development from cell to embryo to bird. Each spread is alive with details, carefully captioned artwork, and answers to the questions that so many children have when learning something new. Important terms are highlighted in orange print. As our children learn more about the natural world, they are more likely to become stewards of protection for its future. 

This is a brilliant book, guaranteed to hold attention as young readers explore the world of birds. Artwork 'created traditionally and using a computer' fills the pages with color, action, and a lot of humor. A final page provides a list of sources and resources meant to encourage further exploration and learning. 

                                                                               

                                                         

Science Comics: Elephants Living Large. Written by Jason Viola and illustrated by Faylnn Koch. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $16.99 ages 9 and up

"The biggest threat to our family would be 
Grandmother's death. I don't know what 
we would do. 

If we lost her, it would be as if we lost 
ourselves. 

I worry about what could happen 
without her to guide us."

If you have not read or even seen the Science Comics series books, quick to the library to see what they have! Here are but a few of the titles: Dinosaurs, Coral Reefs, Bats, Robots and Drones, Dogs, The Brain, Birds of Prey, Trees, The Solar System, Cars, Frogs, Wild Weather, Bridges, The Periodic Table of Elements, and the list goes on. I'm sure you can find a title there that would be of interest to someone you know. 

In this terrific addition to the series readers learn in both entertaining and informative ways what living life as an elephant on a day-to-day basis is like. It is narrated by Duni, an eight-year-old elephant whose life within her matriarchal family is described in graphic novel form. She talks about her older brother who remains attached to the herd without being around much. That worries his sister. 

It may be surprising to readers how similar elephants are to humans, in various ways. They live in families, care about the welfare of others, support those in need of support and honor their elders. Readers will also learn about the differences between species, their trunks and tusks and how they are used, those animals that threaten them and their families, their rituals in finding a mate. 

Excellent illustrations, charts, maps, dialogue, humor and constant learning are what make this book a real treat for those kids who want to know more about these amazing mammals and their families. The book follows Duni for several years, always informing readers about survival, threats, and their most endearing characteristics. 

Illustrations by Falynn Koch add context, humor, and great detail to help with the learning. A glossary provides definitions of terms presented throughout the text. 

"Like our home range, 
an elephant family 
follows a cycle ... 

... while also changing, 
growing, and moving. 

Don't worry. 
We're all in this 
together."

Here Are The Seeds, written by JaNay Brown-Wood and illustrated by Olivia Amoah. Kids Can Press, 2024. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Here is the water 
that works with the sun
to feed all the plants
that spring from the earth
that nurtures the seeds
that we have sown
to help our garden grow."

Two little ones are excited to be opening seed packets in preparation for planting a garden. Seeds in hand, they are off to the space that will provide a tasty bounty. Days pass and the seeds sprout into plants to be enjoyed in time to come. A sudden OH NO! rings out as the children check their garden to find plants drooping in a patch of shade. 

Bring on the sun! It's easy to see from the other side of the garden that sunshine is having a totally different effect on the seeds planted there. It's a sure sign that sunshine makes all the difference - until it doesn't. Another OH NO! shows evidence of what happens when the sun is strong, and there is a lack of moisture. 

By now, readers will respond to the pattern of events that are being shared here. In cumulative text that grows with each turn of the page, the children recognize what is needed for seeds and their cycle of life. Sun and water are needed if seeds are to produce plants to feed the children. Add to that mushrooms and worms; the result is beautiful and very tasty. The repetitive phrasing and the bright, colorful images, created digitally, make clear the emotions felt with each setback and solution. 

Back matter explains the needs for successful gardening, once the seeds are planted. It's a fun and informative read as spring nears and planting a garden becomes a terrific family pursuit. 

A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration. Written by Cynthia Harmony and illustrated by Devon Holzwarth. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Abuela and Mama teach the children to braid 
baskets tight and strong. Like generations before 
them, families weave sweet-scented ocoxal leaves 
and memories together. 

A tradition they know by heart.

A frenzy of orange and black. 
Together, monarchs chase tomorrow's dreams. 
Joining in a flight their families have made for 
generations.
A flight they know by heart."

Lucia and her father sit together quietly, watching and wishing. At the same time, on the facing page, the monarchs are stretching and shifting positions. It's springtime - coming closer to the days when Papa and the monarchs will leave for their time north of where they are now. 

Lucia needs assurance that her father will return. A warm hug is the promise she gets, and he is gone. At the same time, the monarchs take flight for their long journey. Migration north is as normal for Lucia's father as it is for the monarchs. For Papa and the butterflies, the journey is a long search for work and new life. Papa works wherever he can find a job with the harvest. The work is tedious; he finds comfort in the presence of the monarchs. 

At home, Lucia waits and worries. The days pass slowly. She sings the songs her father has taught her to keep him close. As the weather turns colder, Lucia rushes to celebrate the return of the butterflies and experience a 'flicker of hope' for Papa's return. When she finally sees him, they run to each other, arms and hearts wide open. 

The telling is heartfelt. The artwork, created using gouache, watercolor, colored pencils, and crayon finished digitally, is rich in color and atmosphere. A glossary follows, as does an author's note and suggestions for helping make life better for migrant workers, their families, and for the monarch butterfly.  

"When the weather turns cold and the monarcas return, our winged ancestors will guide me home."                                                                                      

What's Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon and Other Questions about Moths and Butterflies? Written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky. Crown Books for Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2023. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

"The caterpillar life stage is 
all about eating and growing!

Its body is built for 
climbing, crawling, 
and snacking on plants! 

Just like the 
butterflies and moths
they will become, 
caterpillars can 
have many different 
shapes and sizes."

After gushing over What's Inside a Flower? (Crown, 2021), I knew I wanted to see Ms. Ignotofsky's new book about moths and butterflies. I could only imagine the information it would provide, alongside stunning illustrations. I was not wrong. This new book is equally engaging, and attractive. 

In the summer of 2022, while my family was visiting for the month of July, we were lucky enough to raise two Monarch butterflies from caterpillar to pupa to the soaring beauty of an adult (who took flight two hours before their departure for home). What a wondrous experience it was for two young girls and their mom. This book will be waiting for them this summer when they return.

The author begins with the differences and similarities between the moth and the butterfly. Detailed, captioned images grace first pages with names and wingspans. From there, questions are asked and answered. The life cycle is described as metamorphosis. 

"But why do caterpillars change?

Why are these insects important?

What's inside a cocoon?

SCIENCE WILL HELP US ANSWER THOSE QUESTIONS!"

Well, science and Ms. Ignotofsky! The writing is inviting, informational, accessible, and spot on. The images are captioned, clearly drawn, concise, and spot on. Young readers will very much appreciate the graphic artwork, and the attention paid to providing just the right amount of science. Page design changes enhance the learning and encourage careful observation.

Double-page spreads are dedicated to having the audience learn as much as they can as the egg becomes a caterpillar, then chrysalis, pupa, and finally adult. The latter half of the book is given to providing full information about both butterfly and moth adults, their physical details, their behaviors, and their importance to the natural world. She ends by encouraging young readers to do what they can do to protect the environment these beautiful creatures need to flourish. 

A list of sources and resources includes educational activities, and books to read to bring this remarkable book to an end.                                                                                     

Saving the Spotted Owl: Zalea's Story. A true story, written by Nicola Jones and illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey. Kids Can Press, 2023. $21.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Jasmine knew that Zalea would need to 
be raised by owls in order to learn how to 
survive and thrive. The morning after the 
little owl chick's arrival, she was introduced 
to her foster parents, Amore and Sedin. They 
were a pair of spotted owls with no chicks of 
their own. 
Amore and Sedin were and still are a very 
strongly bonded pair. Jasmine often sees 
them sitting together, grooming each other's 
feathers."

In this true story readers who are interested in knowing more about a northern spotted owl whose life changes in moments, will find Zalea's story quite intriguing. Her fall from the home tree results in her parents not being able to get her back to the family's nest, leaving her vulnerable to predators. 

Luckily, Zalea is rescued, before anything can happen to her, by wildlife biologists who happen upon her. Her new home is the Northern Spotted Owl Breeding Centre in Langley, British Columbia. As a threatened species, she is cared for with other owls until she can be released back to the wild. Her care is exemplary; the biologists eventually help her find a mate. 

This is an interesting and compelling account concerning the life cycle of owls, a look at conserving vulnerable species, and protecting the habitats that house them. As happens in the best kind of nonfiction, the design of the book provides sidebars and information boxes that add to the story being told. Charming and detailed artwork adds context and included photographs of Zalea's growth are most welcome. 

Back matter appends a useful glossary, an author's note, links to finding webcams that allow readers to support a breeding program, and an index. 

The Bees of Notre-Dame, written by Meghan P Browne and illustrated by E. B. Goodale. Random House Studio, Penguin Random House. 2023. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

" ... one April morning, the sun pushes
the chill from the air and says, 
"Come!
Stretch your wings wide.
Gather pollen in your pockets
and nectar in your belly! 
Make the colony strong with new life!""

You may remember the news stories when Notre-Dame Cathedral caught fire in April 2019. It was a story that brought great sorrow to people around the world. The damage was terrible, and the cost for rebuilding could not be calculated at that time. 

This story of the bees of Notre-Dame, whose hives had been there since 2013, begins in spring when all Paris is awakening to the warmth of the sun, and a release from the cold of winter. A young queen bee awakens to return to the nesting box on top of the cathedral. 

"Beneath the roof of a small pine box, workers 
dance to show a map of the sweetest gardens
in Paris, and the queen lays her eggs - 
one by one - in thousands of perfect hexagons
waxed by generations of bees
that came before her." 

No one knows what is about to happen. As the bees do the work they do, a fire breaks out. Notre-Dame catches fire, and the world watches as its familiar and beautiful spire collapses. As firefighters work tirelessly to save the cathedral, they also work together to save its many artifacts and the beehives. When the smoke clears, the work begins to rebuild the cathedral. Ms. Browne draws a parallel for the need to work together, just as the bees do each year to build their hive. 

Ms. Goodale uses 'monoprint, oil paint, gouache, collage and colored pencils' to create the warmth of Paris in spring, the flight of the bees as they return to the cathedral, and the smoky destruction of the iconic Paris landmark, before returning to the joy that comes with working together to rebuild. She bookends the story with before and after overhead views of the cathedral. They are of great interest.  

Back matter includes an author's note introducing Sibyle Moulin, the beekeeper, and provides further information about the fire and the bees. Both devastating and fascinating, this book allows young readers a glimpse at a recent historical event. A list for recommended reading is also appended.