  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 11/01/2014 Gr 3–6—This appealing, textbook–style introduction to nature is broken down by season. The title begins with some general information about ways in which naturalists observe nature, suggestions for keeping a journal, and places to explore. The sections are subdivided by habitat (ponds, meadows, beaches, lakes), and there's also an emphasis on ways to explore plant and wildlife in urban areas. The author covers a wide variety of topics that highlight seasonal changes. For instance, the section on "Winter" deals with "Life Under Ice," while "Autumn" discusses "Leaf Color." Page-long job descriptions scattered throughout delve into skills and interests needed for various nature-related occupations (horticulturist, taxonomist, botanical illustrator, and others). "Nature Activities," such as "Make Your Own Bug Spray" and "Build a Boat That Stays Afloat" using only materials readers can find at their feet, make learning fun. "Tips for Adult Caregivers" are also included. Illustrations vary from full-page scenes of different habitats (labeled with names of the plant and animal species) to smaller photographs and drawings of nature items—seed pods, leaves in fall colors, fungi, bee varieties. The lessons and activities here will motivate many readers to explore further.—Susan Scheps, formerly at Shaker Public Library, OH - Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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