Spring is Here! I Have Some Books for You!

It may not feel like spring everywhere, but the season is officially here. In the library, my wonderful parent volunteer created a display showing gardening and spring books. Our learners have started a school garden, so in my read-alouds this week, I shared books that celebrate planting, seeds, and gardens.

Here is the book display:

I thought this book would be perfect:

Fogliano, Julie. 2012. And Then It's Spring. Ill. by Erin E. Stead. New York: Roaring Book Press. ISBN 1596436247

At the end of winter, a boy's thoughts to spring. Looking out at the land stretched before him, the boy and his dog (along with a turtle and a rabbit) plant seeds, wait for rain, and nurture a garden impatiently. As they wait, the earth turns colors, and the boy worries "about those little seeds". Delightful elements of nature act out the story: birds peck at seeds, and, unexpectedly, some playful bears stop by for a visit. As time progresses, periwinkle clouds and wispy cattails frame the edges of each page.  Readers will discover surprises Stead has thoughtfully arranged: a bird feeder hung gently on a tree branch, the dog sleeping obliviously in a wagon, and the rabbit climbing into a clay pot. The pacing is steady and serene, making readers expectant for the next page. Stead's loyal use of browns, blues and greens in subtle hues is masterful, and Fogliano's poetic text gives voice to the boy's hope for growth, change, and the peace one can only find in a beautiful spring day. 

Here are other titles I shared:

Seeger, Laura V. 2012. Green. New York: Roaring Book Press. ISBN 1596433973.
Winner, Caldecott Honor 2013

     

Wheeler, Eliza. 2013. Miss Maple's Seeds. New York: Nancy Paulsen Books. ISBN 0399257926. 

A changing of the seasons is the perfect opportunity to recommend and celebrate a picture book. 

What other picture books about spring, planting, or gardening do you recommend?