Amazon.com

Ever wonder what a tardigrade might have looked like? Or what tree wetas eat? Now you can find out, because this great nature encyclopedia answers these questions and a jillion more. Organized into sections ("The Natural World," "How Living Things Work," "Ecology," "Classification," "Plants," and "Animals"), the Nature Encyclopedia is a perfect reference for anyone curious about organisms, ecosystems, and the scientists who study them.It's full of amazing color photos and easy-to-understand illustrations and diagrams so you can feel confident when you say, "Look, there's a Periplaneta americana, otherwise known as an American cockroach!Say, did you know they evolved long before humans?" We love this encyclopedia, and its companion book, The DK Science Encyclopedia, which covers the nonliving world with excellent information on space, rocks, electricity, and more.(Ages 9 to 12) --Therese Littleton ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Rekindling Our Respect for Nature!
This book has succeeded in describing the great diversity of life on earth in such an interesting way with colorful photographs and new information that one can't help but stand in awe of our great planet.The chapters discuss : How living things work,ecology, classification, plants and animals. I was afraid that the animal section in this book would be a repetition of DK's Animal Encyclopedia, but thankfully it wasn't, I found new information everytime. For those who are not familiar with DK's encyclopedias one should know that the superior photography and layout of these books really captivate children's attention and fascination with this world.

love of nature grows the more we know
I am delighted with this encyclopedia which I ordered as a present for my six year old. This handsome book has beautiful pictures and lots of information covering many aspects of nature. Attractive and accessible, it provides great rewards for the young reader whose love and respect of nature will grow as their knowledge expands. I expect it to be used in greater depth as my daughter grows older. For now, she loves to open it up and see what she finds - and becomes engaged immediately. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

How does a tiny acorn grow into an enormous oak tree? At one time, the tree in your backyard could fit into your pocket! Look inside to learn the simple steps for turning a packet of seeds into you own garden.

How does a tiny acorn grow into an enormous oak tree? At one time, the tree in your backyard could have fit into your pocket! Look inside to learn the simple steps for turning a packet of seeds into your own garden. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

My five year old enjoyed this book
We enjoy the "Let's - Read - & - Find - Out" series of books. This one is a good addition, explaining seeds on my five year old son's level of understanding . Something that many adult writers of childrens' science books sometimes aren't very good at getting across. It is in my child's library at school.

The books in this series are informative and interesting for their target audiences. The illustrations are well done and add to understanding the process being described. They make it easier to follow for kids.

Life Springing Forth.
This book should have been more appropriately titled HOW TO WATCH A SEED GROW. Instead of discussing the various stages of development and explaining what happens, the book is basically an extended science project explaining how students can watch a seed grow into a plant. The book talks about the different stages, but only discusses what the planted beans should look like in those stages, not really explaining what is happening or why. Nevertheless, the book does outline a good science project for younger children, but isn't much as a book to read to kids.

A Kids First Science Book
This is one very good science book. If you would like to do a seed project then this is a good guide to lots of young peoples questions about plants. It has colorful illustrations about what is happening with your project. It is written in detail, but not like a boring high school science textbook that goes on, and on, and on about one thing, giving every detail that there is. So what I'm trying to say is that this is a good book. ... Read more

Book Description

Mountain gorillas are fierce, playful, territorial, curious, and beautiful. They are also one of the most endangered species in the world. For many years, these gorillas have faced the threat of violent death at the hands of poachers. In order to protect the gorillas, funds are raised through "gorilla tourism,"bringing people into the forest to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. This tourism is vital, but it has brought a new threat to the mountain gorillas: illness and death by human disease.

The Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project is a group of courageous and talented veterinarians working to save the mountain gorilla population in Rwanda and Uganda. They study the effects of human exposure, document the daily lives of the gorillas, and even act as foster parents to an orphaned gorilla baby named Fearless. Through engaging text and stunning photographs, Pamela Turner takes readers on an exploration like no other in this gripping tale of science, nature, and the conservation of life. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Lois Ehlert, beloved illustrator of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom andmany other bold, beautiful picture books has outdone herself with this gorgeous(seriously breathtaking) celebration of butterfly metamorphosis. "Out in thefields, eggs are hidden from view, / clinging to leaves with butterfly glue. /Soon caterpillars hatch. They creep and chew. / Each one knows what it must do."As the gentle rhyme unfolds, we turn the small, partial pages that form thelarger spread of fabulous foliage in this lush, oversized book. Before our eyes,the eggs turn to caterpillars, the caterpillars to cases, the cases to lovelybutterflies. "They pump their wings, get ready to fly, then hungry butterflieshead for the sky." The colors become increasingly dazzling, each butterflyspringing to life with Ehlert's color-soaked cut-paper magic. Several pages ofbackground material conclude the book, labeling different kinds of butterfliesat different stages of development, from the buckeye butterfly to the paintedlady to the monarch. A "Butterfly Information" page clearly labels butterflyanatomy and answers basic question about these fascinating fluttery insects, a"Flower Identification" page showcases butterfly-attracting flowers such as thepurple coneflower (echinacea), phlox, and lantana, and the last page offers afew pointers on growing a butterfly garden. (Ages 3 to 6) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Elegantly beautiful.
This is not a storybook, but it is a book to be loved. With interesting art in vibrant colors, the book describes the life cycle of the butterfly in poetry and then presents more detailed information on moths and butterflies -- and about which flowers will attract them. The inventive art, on odd-size pages, is outstanding. Some of the art is geometrical, some looks like paper cutouts layered to look three-dimensional. And don't worry about the dust jacket -- if it rips, just pitch it -- the gorgeous art is repeated on the book cover itself.

Waiting For Wings Soars!
This delightful story explains the life cycle of the butterfly in a clear, enjoyable way that young children will understand. The rich language with many action verbs and the author's clever use of rhyme make this book appealing to young children. The size of the illustrations are consistent with the story grammer as the pictures are largest at the point of climax in the story- when the butterflies are ready to fly. The illustrations are very brilliant in color which will appeal to young children. The end papers and title page are illustrated and a part of the story. The cover opens up to a large flower garden with the title on the right side. Descriptions of butterflies, flowers and how to grow a butterfly garden are included.
This book will help young children gain a better understanding of nature and enhance their early literacy skills at the same time.

Toddlers and Babies, too!
I have a three year old daughter who must be read to before sleeping. I also have a three month old baby girl who is often in the bed with us while we read. Often, the baby is restless and cries before we finish our books. Waiting for Wings is a fabulous solution. I find this interesting AND educational for my toddler. In addition, the colors are bright and contrasting, allowing my baby to be entertained while the book is read.

Just O.K.
... I was disappointed when I actually got the book. It may be good for the 1-3-year-old set, but my 4-year-old is much more sophisticated about butterflies than this book addresses. For the same money, there are alot of other books that have more beautiful artwork. Don't waste your money-check this one out from the library instead!

My daughter loves this book!
My 3 year old daughter loves this book! Beautiful drawings of flowers and butterflies. The drawback was that for a couple months after getting this book, we had to read it every night, and we had to name every butterfly on every page. "What kind of butterfly is this?" "That's a Monarch butterfly." "What kind of butterfly is this?" "That's a Tiger swallowtail butterfly." I'm sure that's good in the long run, but holy cow, she was obsessed with this book! :) Thankfully, the obsession dwindled a bit, and now we can enjoy our occasional readings of the book together. I do recommend this book! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Perfect for teaching about seeds.
This is an excellent book for younger students (K-3) about seeds and plants. I am using it as part of my summer school reading/writing program. First, I read the book to the students and we planted little radish seeds (they grow quickly) in see-through plastic cups. Later, the students read the book out loud to one another and we discussed the seed to plant concept. They also kept a journal to record their observations of their seeds with illustrations about every other day. This book presents a great opportunity to combine reading, writing and science.

Superb, simple explanation of plant life.
This book's big, colorful illustrations and simple language do a superb job of explaining subjects such as plant reproduction, seed dispersal, pollen transference, and seed germination. Although intended for a younger audience, I read this book aloud to my fourth grade students to quickly build their background knowledge. ... Read more

Book Description

Wartville is being buried in trash! There are soda bottles under the flowers, juice cans by the mailbox, and newspapers along the road. Every day the piles grow higher and higher.

Then one tidy old man realizes he has the power to get rid of all the trash forever. Wartville will finally be cleaned up once and for all! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Wartville Wizard-Good story, great lesson
I recently read this book to a five-year-old little boy who absolutely loved the book. He was intrigued by the pictures (especially the lady with the garbage stuck to her rear-end)and kept finding "clues" to how the story would end. He really enjoyed the plot and the humor. The Warville Wizard spurred on great conversations about litter and pollution. The only downfall is that the book doesn't go into why you shouldn't litter other than for the asthetic value of a clean world. But overall, this was a super book.

Excellent.
Great story to use for Earth Day. Humorous. Lends itself to other classroom activites. ... Read more

Book Description

"Goodnight, Max," says Max's sister Ruby. But Max can't get comfortable. First he spills a glass of water. Then there are all those itchy cookie crumbs in his bed...and the moon shining through his window. Will poor Max ever fall asleep? Rosemary Wells' beloved Max and Ruby are back in an irresistibly touchable book that is also a satisfying bedtime story. Toddlers won't be able to resist all the tactile elements--fourteen tempting things to touch, move, even smell--while a gently humorous story makes this the perfect book for bedtime, naptime, or anytime! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

You have to be a fan
I bought this book after reading all the great reviews. It is a nice book, bright colors, lots of attention to detail, silly story line, but I didn't think the areas for the child to feel were large enough. The sticky candy in Max's pajamas is just about the size of a child's fingertip, the lace curtain is just a thin slip of fabric, the lightning is a skinny zig-zag of foil and the "cookie crumbs" sandpaper is only about a quarter-inch high. There are other touch-and-feel books that provide a much larger exploratory surface. Still, this book does contain a good variety (sticky candy, rough crumbs, fur, smelly sock, etc.)I'm not sure why, but that smelly sock always seems to be such a hit!

A touch of genius by Rosemary Wells
What a joy of a book! My baby loves feeling the surprises on each page from the crumbs in Max's pockets to the gummy nightcrawlers on his feet! A sweet story with tactile turns on each page. A classic in the making, I can hardly wait for a sequel!

A splendid board book for toddlers & preschoolers.
It's time for bed, but Max can't fall asleep in this board book for toddlers who will find here a delightful bedtime dilemma. Bright pages with tactile cut-outs attract attention with touch and feel surprises as Max faces a too-long night.

Max and Ruby star in this lovely story about going to bed
My children adore Max, and this book is no exception. My three-year-old had me read it to him no less than three times in a row today. He loves to touch the lace curtain, soft blanket, and the "spilled" water. And what a sister! Everyone needs a sister like Ruby!

Any parent who's tried to get their own "Max" to bed can sympathize with Ruby, the long suffering and ever patient sibling.

What a joyful little book!

Goodnight Max
The irrepresible Max and his ever-patient sister Ruby are backonce again in this humorous yet soothing bedtime tale, complete with"touch and feel" fun.

Max is unable to fall asleep, andhis mishaps require continuous changes of his pajamas. My 3- 1/2 year old grandson, a Max fan from babyhood, especially loves the feel of the cookie crumbs in the bed and the sticky candy on the pajama feet. Peeking under the real fabric blanket is also a big hit, and the "smelly" sock is met with hillarity every time.

The format is an oversized board book, but with an expanded text and richly detailed illustrations. The designs on Max's fun-theme pajamas makes us want to own them; the silver moon is appropriately silvery, and the fly swatter is made of real netting.

Goodnight Max is a wonderful companion piece to "Goodnight, Moon" and "Bedtime for Frances". Babies would love touching the fuzzy teddy bear and Max's furry tale; older pre-schoolers can open and close the window. It's the best Max yet. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Especially recommended as a read-aloud tool for parents
Thornton Burgess' stories 'interview' typical birds for kids, using these interviews to teach the basics on different common birds' appearances, behavior, eating and songs. His classic appeared in 1919 to much acclaim, and Dover's economy-minded paperwork reprint offers new generations the same introduction. The Burgess Bird Book For Children is especially recommended as a read-aloud tool for parents. ... Read more

Book Description

When you are very young,
there are some things that you just know....

This treasured story of childhood faith
rewarded is now avaliable in a board book
edition for the youngest child.

Reviews (19)

simple book about perseverance
This simple, short book is about a boy who plants a carrot seed. Everyone tells him it will not grow, but he perseveres and in the end is vindicated. A nice (and important) lesson for children. Illustrations are by Crockett Johnson, the author's husband, who gave us the Harold and the Purple Crayon books.

The granddaddy of all picture books in America
In his essay "Ruth Krauss and Me," author Maurice Sendak says "that perfect picture book, The Carrot Seed, the granddaddy of all picture books in America, a small revolution of a book that permanently transformed the face of children's book publishing. The Carrot Seed, with not a word or a picture out of place, is dramatic, vivid, precise, concise in every detail. It springs fresh from the real world of children."

This is a timeless classic that has been known and loved by children and parents for years.

A young boy is told by his parents, competition and his big brother that his carrot will not grow. After a long time of pulling weeds, watering and patience the carrot finally grows, and it is huge.

The author Ruth Krauss was born in 1901 is also the author of A Hole Is To Dig; I'll Be You and You Be Me; Charlotte and the White Horse; and many other childrens classics.

Naysayers
I do not feel the important lesson from this book is simple perserverance (as others have said). Nor do I feel it is about blind faith. The lesson I take from it is perseverance in the face of all the naysayers in life who would bring you down with them. Dare to dream big, work hard, and have faith in oneself in the face of adversity. This is the only children's book I have seen with such a theme.

Sweet without being overwhelming
When the New York Public Library announced its "100 Children's Picture Books Everyone Should Know" for 2003, I had never heard of "The Carrot Seed". It isn't as if the author and illustrator are unknown. After all, illustrator Crockett Johnson welded the pen that created "Harold's Purple Crayon". Yet the book recommended on this list is certainly one of his lesser known titles.

"The Carrot Seed" is a simple story of a boy and his burgeoning carrot. Informed by his family members, one by one, that his carrot will not grow and that any actions to help it are useless, he ignores them bravely. Initially when I looked at this book I was certain that its protagonist sported a yarmulke. This is not the case. I believe it is more of a jaunty cap. The book itself is very straightforward, with accompanying pictures of relative simplicity. Additionally, the payoff at the end is sweet and funny, but not particularly unexpected. You're not going to find any real surprises in this book and, admittedly, I'm a little amazed that it's so well remembered. Much of its popularity stems, I'm sure, from the lesson learned. This is a book about the benefits of perseverance. If that's your cup of tea, so be it. But if you'd like to delve into some of Crockett's better works, check out "Harold's Purple Crayon" or his little known (but lovely) comic strip "Barnaby".

My favorite book then, my favorite book now
My parents gave me the paperback version of this book as a child many years ago (which I still have), and I recall reading it over and over and over during my formative years. My mom bought me the hardback version again when I graduated from high school. I am nearly 30 years old now, and I still gravitate toward the very simple yet profound message it teaches all of us: have a quiet childlike faith, trust, persist, persevere and you will be richly rewarded. Today, I run a $2.5 million a year professional organization, and we recently completed a large corporate visioning project for the next several years. I read Krauss' book at the close of the first phase of our vision meeting. My colleagues--with a cumulative total of nearly 75 years of professional business experience--spontaneously applauded at the end of the book, no joke! I also purchased several copies of the book to give to my team as a reminder of the core values it espouses--simple, yet profound values that will guide us and lead us to the next level. It is a book of timeless value that touches my heart each time I read it--and one that you, your child, your family, your peers, or your colleagues will treasure for years to come. Buy it and share it with others, if you haven't done so already. ... Read more

Book Description

Monica wants the moon to play with, so her Papa sets out to get it. It isn't easy to climb to the moon, but he finally succeeds -- only to find the moon is too big to carry home. Children will love the joyful way in which this problem is solved.

Now available as a Classic Board Book edition, this delightful story literally unfolds as pages open dramatically, extending both outward and upward. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Blue moon, you see it standing alone
You hear about this sometimes. An artist becomes so famous and influential that they're eventually able to go back to some of their earlier works and (to their mind) improve them. Steven Spielberg did it with "E.T." Singer/songwriters are constantly reinventing their old classics. Eric Carle did it with "Papa, Please Get the Moon For Me". And though I usually object heartily to artistic preferences changing old classics that technically belong to the masses (ya hear that Speilberg???), in Carle's case I'm willing to make an exception. Changing a mildly interesting story into a complicated (but hearty) pseudo pop-up book, Carle has recreated his art the only way an artist should: he has made it better.

Following in the tradition of such children-asking-their-parents-for-the-moon classics as "Many Moons" (highly recommended!), in this simple story a girl asks her father to please get her that large circular piece of rock in the sky. The father complies, hauling out the longest ladder anyone has ever seen and taking it to the tallest mountain in the world. Initially depressed by the fact that the moon is (surprise!) too large to bring to his daughter, the father is eventually comforted by the moon itself. It tells the man that if he just waits for it to wax and wane, it'll become a manageable size in no time. This turns out to be the case and the little girl is delighted when the father hands her the sliver that is the moon to play with.

The book flap says that by reading this book, children will come to realize that, "even a seemingly unreachable goal can actually be attained". I dunno about that. If that's the moral of this story, then I want no part of it. No, the message I received from this tale is that a man will sometimes move heaven and earth to bring his children the things they want the most in the world. They might not always succeed, but if a man were able to get the moon for his daughter, he'd do so.

Carle's illustrations are classic Carle. I'm personally a little lukewarm on him. The pictures here are a little more swirly and paint based than his usual cut paper concoctions. The book flap mentions that for the reissue of this book Carle, "created new illustrations for his original story", so I do not know how much he has changed. If the pictures are lovely, however, they are merely a compliment to the book's real joys. Pages in this story fold out to reveal the enormity of the father's task. A single ladder, once the pages are unfolded, takes over a four page spread. And the moon itself, when at its full capacity, opens up to become larger than the book that holds it. The effect is stunning and enjoyable for those kids that love interactive pictures. Nicest of all is the durability of the paper used for these effects. I'm sure we've all seen the effects a three-year old can wreak on a pop-up book it loves. I took this book, published in 1986, from my local library and the pages STILL work just as well as the day they were made. If that's not sturdiness, I don't know what is.

Should you be scientifically inclined and you object to such notions as a moon being physically smaller when it is but a crescent, avoid this story. If, on the other hand, you enjoy a good fold out pop-up book enlivened by colorful cut-out illustrations as much as the next guy, then I highly recommend this delightful piece of lunar propaganda. It is certain to be beloved of millions of star gazing children worldwide.

another beautiful active book from Eric Carle
Author Eric Carle (The Very Lonely Firefly, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Busy Spider) excels in creating books that offer children more than words on a page -- he consistently incorporates additional elements (lights, holes(!), textures) that make the books even more interesting to thirsty little minds.

In this book, a smaller portable version of the original, a girl asks her father for the moon. Fold-out pages complement Carle's unique illustrative style as we discover a looooooong ladder that reaches to the moon and back, and a magnificent four-page center spread revealing the full moon in all its glory.

This fantastic tale for young children is sure to delight parents and kids.

What a great dad!
This book is the beautiful story of a dad who goes to all lengths for his daughter - he actually gets the moon for her!
In typical "Carle fashion" this book expands (as the moon appears to do), the pages ascend ever higher (as the moon ascends in the sky). As with Carle's other stories you don't just hear them and see them - you FEEL them. I love the motion in this book. The tenderness of the gift from father to daughter and the representaion of the child's joy in playing with the moon. This story has a wonderful opening, fantastic struggle and beautiful ending. I especially enjoy how the moon itself is a character in the book.

My 19 MO daughters favorite book
Every night my daughter wants us to go outside and look for the moon. When I saw this book I knew I had to get it and she LOVES it. We change the name from "monica" to our daughters name, and when you get to the moon pop-out page she always laughs and screams and jumps. I also recommend "The night moon fell down" - another wonderful favorite.

Wonderful concept poorly implemented
I bought this book for my 11-month son who is very hard on regular books. Unfortunately, he will not get to read it until he is much older because the fold-out pages are much too flimsy for a board book.

I was very disappointed to bring it home from the store and have the page with the moon that unfolds tear just from me opening those two pages.

The book is very very pretty, I just wish it were more durable. I don't see how a child could avoid damaging it. ... Read more

Book Description

Unlike any other flash card set, Baby Einstein Nature Discovery Cards deliver 29 unique learning experiences that help children discover the elements of nature outside their door-oceans and rain, plants and flowers, moon and sun, and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun tool, beautiful pictures, but. . . .
Our twenty month old loves the Baby Einstein flashcards (the animals set in particular). The pictures are clear and crisp and beautifully rendered. I agree with everything the previous reviewer said, but one thing was missing that bothers me about the cards. They are printed on a fairly thin cardboard material. While the enclosed brochure says the cards are sturdy enough for young hands to handle, they are also thin enough for young hands to bend and mash! After two days, about half a dozen cards are bent in half and feature large creases. Certainly the cards are still functional and have not been severely damaged. But I wish they were made of more sturdy/durable materials, more like the board books themselves, that could not be so easily bent. I imagine there will be ripped cards at some point. We'll try to discourage him from bending them in the future (HA!), and in the meantime probably buy a second set for when the first one wears out . . .

We love these flash cards!
My 2 year old has been raised on Baby Einstein products since birth. We have enjoyed the melodic strains of Baby Bach, learned colors with Baby Van Gogh, explored words with Baby Shakespeare and are now expanding his knowledge with Baby Einstein Nature Discovery Cards. These flash cards are printed on heavy card stock. Each card is large enough for his little hands to manipulate and have a glossy finish that makes it easy to wipe clean should his little hands be sticky at the time (which they usually are). There are 29 cards in this set. On the front of each card is a beautiful photograph of the subject (ocean, mountains, grass, sea jellies, flower) with the title of the subject clearly spelled out. On the back of each card are simple facts for baby to understand.

Example: On the "Tree" card, the facts are as follows - Trees have been on earth longer than any other living thing. Can you think of a kind of tree that many people decorate during a holiday? Trees are very important to people and animals. Trees give us oxygen, food, shelter, wood and paper products. Trees are the largest living thing on earth. Some animals live in trees. Can you name and animal that lives in a tree?

These cards are beautifully made. My son loves looking at them, and has shown an amazing recall of what he has learned. Included in the pack of cards is a Parents Guide on how to use them as well as 4 blank cards that you can use to make your own nature cards.

I highly recommend Baby Einstein Nature Discovery Cards to the parents of any young child. There's a big world out there for them to discover and Baby Einstein makes it possible. Even when you can't get to the ocean or mountains, Baby Einstein will bring the ocean and mountains to you. ... Read more

Book Description

Ms. Frizzle's class is growing a beautiful garden. But, Phoebe's plot is empty. Her flowers are back at her old school! So, the class climbs aboard the Magic School Bus. And, of course, the kids don't only go back to Phoebe's school, but they go inside one of Phoebe's flowers! Follow the kids' adventure and learn how living things grow. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great fun!
I enjoyed this book very much because it is such a fun way to learn about science. This is the first of many Magic School Bus books I purchased, and I've been hooked ever since. ... Read more

Book Description

"A scientifically accurate book which depicts the complex world of rain forests in easily understood text and sumptuous illustrations. The geography, climate and ecology of the rain forest are explained and the illustrations teem with the flora and fauna."--Children's Literature. ??? ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Gail should hire an illustrator or a photographer !
Ms. Gibbons is a WONDERFUL writer. Her drawings, however, are definitely not in the category of her writing. They detract from her books. I am a children's librarian and I have seen time after time that kids will avoid her books because the pictures are so unappealing. This is a shame since the text is usually outstanding. Ms. Gibbons should think about getting an illustrator or a photographer to supply an equivalent to her text. If she were to do this, her books would reach a much greater audience.

An excellent, accurate book
This book can be used as an excellent teaching tool. It provides a great introduction to the rainforests, and is full of facts about animals, medicines, and plants that are found in the rainforests. ... Read more

Book Description

Each title in the series is a classic of design and insight.Brilliantly researched and in the handiest of formats, knowledgebecomes more accessible with these pockets full of information. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Super!
This is a nice reference guide for all ages.I have a 4 year old who isVERY interested in nature and I bought this book to aid myself and her inidentifying various birds that we run across.It is perfect for an adultas well as children.There are plenty of pictures that even a child whocannot read, can still understand. ... Read more

Book Description

In Hide and Seek, ingenious action spreads show how animals use camouflage to hide from enemies or hunt for food, whether in the Arctic or Africa, the forests or the fields. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

HIde and Seek (National Geographic Action Book)
My 12-year old daughter got this book 10 years ago and it has survived three children. Each of my children have enjoyed the National Geographic Books. This one is particulary fun because the kids get to search for the hidden creatures; they don't seem to tire of looking again and again. Our set is finally showing its age so I am purchasing new ones - my 4-year old likes to look at them before she goes to sleep but calls them the "broke books" now.

A pleased reader from Cambridge, MA
Tabs, flaps, surprises and a scary owl are part of the fun of this well-conceived book. The pop-up engineering is really amazing and the illustrations are scientifically accurate as well as beautiful. Children love finding the hidden animals and there is so much variety and excitement in these 12 pages, that it will be enjoyed as much by adults as by children. It is a wonderful book for a parent or grandparent to share with the young ones. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The multitudes of Gary Paulsen fans (or more accurately, Brian fans) will be thrilled to find that the author has penned yet another story about Brian Robeson. Although Paulsen once claimed that he would "write no more about Brian," he seems to have been softened by the "staggering amounts of mail from readers" begging for more about the teen who is more at home alone in the wilderness than in the hustle and bustle of city life. In Brian’s Hunt, the 16-year-old returns to the remote woods and lakes of Canada, where he encounters a mysteriously injured dog. His experiences two years earlier, after surviving a plane crash and months alone with only a hatchet to protect and provide for himself (Hatchet, Brian’s Winter, etc.), have prepared him well to survive now. But can anything prime him for the horror that awaits him on an island campsite where he intends to meet his Cree friends?

This short episode is rife with the kind of gritty--even gruesome--details readers have come to expect from the Newbery Honor author. In an afterword, Paulsen reminds readers that he bases his stories on personal experiences and his extensive knowledge of the wild side of nature.

Confidential to avid fans: an intimation of romance amid all the rugged drama hints that this will not be the last Brian book, either. (Ages 10 to 13) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Nykolas Connors review
I think that the book Brian's hunt was one of the best books that I have ever written. The book just kept me wanting to read. My teacher read it out loud but it felt like I was there with him this time. This book was the best book of 2004 that I have ever read. I think that I would not write so much stuff. It didn't end like I was thinking. It was the better then what I thought it would of ended. I loved the book from began to the end.

A lone camping trip results in a wounded dog's appearance
Brian's Hunt is the sequel to Gary Paulsen's Hatchet and continues stories about a boy named Brian and his wilderness skills. Brian's Hunt brings Brian back to the wilderness where a lone camping trip results in a wounded dog's appearance. As Brian cares for her, he faces the dual challenges of helping her and his Cree native friends in this moving story of courage.

difference
This a good read. Though it is shorter than most of Paulsen's work, it is good. I didn't like the changes though. Like he brought more books than what The List in Brian's Return said, freeze dried food, the three pairs of moccasins, the monoculars, and the barbed fish tips for his arrows. Plus it didn't mention Caleb, after all he wouldn't be there without him. And it didn't mention his medicine or Billy. It was written in a different in a different way than the other Brian books. If you have read the other Brian books you will see a different writing style. It might be because Brian is finally in a hurry to get somewhere, but The River isn't written in this way. Overall I liked it and will continue reading Paulsen's work.I have been reading for more than seven years and liking his work. I have never and probably never find a Paulsen book I don't like.

Great Book
This is one of my favorite Gary Paulsen books. I really enjoyed the twist of Brian finding a friend in this book, instead of being all alone. Also, he finally starts to notice girls. I also enjoyed the suspense of the mysterious island. His hunt for the bear that caused all the problems(I won't be specific because I don't want to ruin the story)is also very enjoyable.When he finally finds the bear, enjoyment and suspense come togethet with action, to form the perfect ending:the final battle between man and beast. I thought Brian's Hunt by Gary Paulsen was a great book. ... Read more

Book Description

In nature, we often hear the sound of a bird or an animal before we can see it.Our new Hear and There Books have the same effect.After reading a short riddle, children are asked "What am I?" By pushing a color-coded button on the sound strip, they can hear the call of the bird or the animal.When they pull the tab on the right page, the animal is revealed. To find out more about the featured bird or animal, readers can lift the flap on the left-hand page for more detailed information on its habitat, its young, and its behavior.Written by a professional naturalist, these books are beautifully illustrated, fun to listen to, and filled with interesting facts!

Have you ever wondered what a certain sound was outside your window at night? As children play the calls of these nocturnal creatures, they will be fascinated to read and learn about the coyote, spring peepers, great horned owl, American toad, whippoorwill, field cricket, bullfrog, and katydid. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A Preschool Winner!!
A parent shared this book with my son's preschool class when they were doing a lesson on birds. The kids had alot of fun trying to guess the birds based on the description and the sounds. The teacher's and myself were so impressed with this book that I came home and ordered two copies...one for the class and one for my home!! I am also planning on purchasing "Night Calls", also written by the same author.

Great book
I purchased this book for my 6 year old son who loves it. It is well written and has great picture's. The colors are vibrant and eye catching. The pull tabs seem sturdy and that they can withstand the abuse of a 6 year old. The only thing is be prepared for loud birdie noises! They do get on your nerves after awhile. Other than that, it is a very nice book.

Listening to bird calls
I bought this for my 13 month old grandchild thinking I would save it until she was older. She absolutely loves the book! Each time she comes to visit she wants to listen to the calls over and over. At 15 months, she can now identify the birds by call as well as by picture and has become ever more fascinated by the birds in our yard. I know that in the next few years she will become interested in the information on the birds which my husband and I have enjoyed reading. I am ordering three more books for gifts for other grandparents to share with their youngsters.

What does bird watching have in common with piano lessons?
Many kids hate piano lessons but when they are adults, not one regrets learning how to play. So why not teach your kids the joy of bird watching? Granted, I've always thought they were kind of kooky but most bird watchers I've met are the smartest and most environmentally conscious people I know. That said, why not teach your kids a healthy and educational hobby such as bird watching? One of my sons' first words was "bird" because he was always aware of the various birds he would hear chirping in the trees. At 18 months, this is one of his most favorite books. The varieties of calls in this book are all very different so learning to identify the individual calls is similar to learning foreign languages. The set up of the pull out tabs and flaps creates a game of "peek-a-boo" to help keep the interest of a small child. If you are looking or a gift outside of the usual race car or Barbie doll, I recommend a book like this.

My kids love this book!
I have three children, ages 3, 6 and 8. They all love this book! We leave it sitting on a coffee table with a view of our bird feeder, and all my children have learned to identify all of the birds in the book. My 8 year old takes the book outside and sits quietly and "calls" to the birds (and they even answer, sometimes)! This book has gotten them all interested in observing the nature they have in their own backyard. I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Book Description

When it was first published a decade ago, OLD TURTLE was hailed as a beautiful fable about ecology, peace, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Now considered a modern classic, OLD TURTLE continues to inspire people all over the world. Few books can match the understated power of its hopeful message or the evocative beauty of its illustrations. Each book will be packed with a CD featuring the author, Douglas Wood, reading the book, accompanied by original musical compositions. To commemorate the tenth anniversary of this best-selling favorite, a percentage of the book's proceeds will be donated to worldwide peacemaking organizations. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

Old Turtle
Wow...What a wonderful book! I would have to say this is probably one of the very best books I have ever read! Along with the amazing illustrations is a wonderful story of who the animals, mountains, the winds and the waters, the fish, and the rocks and the birds, and the trees see God. I think in a way it gives us a simile on how all of the different things of the earth could symbolize how all the different religions see God. But as the Old Turtle said God is all of the things that they said. God IS!
I would highly recommend this book to parents or teachers to read to children.
The Illustrations of the book are water colors and with how the author places the setting and talks about all the creations of the world I think it really ties the book and illustrations together. ~Kellie~

A thought-provoking, smile-inducing, really groovy story
The Old Turtle is truly an incredible book that works on so many levels. The author incorporated his love of, and respect for, the environment, as well as his concept of God, into a very well-written, enjoyable story. The illustrations were beautifully done and work so well with the subtle, underlying theme of the story. While the book will surly be enjoyed by children of all ages, I purchased it for a Christmas gift for my 28 year old sister. Likewise, I intend to buy another copy for myself so that I can continue to enjoy it, and share it with my children when I have them. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to humans of all ages.

This Is One Outstanding Book! Extraordinary!
I still have this amazingly and beautifully illustrated story book in hard cover with the "1993 ABBY Book of the Year Children's Book Award" gold sticker on the front. This book is a priceless gem that I have read to my children countless times.
Douglas Wood's phenomenal writing teaches us about honoring the diversities among nature, plants, trees, mountains, the ocean, and all of the different kinds of people on Earth.
Cheng-Khee Chee created the most beautiful watercolor illustrations that look brand new over a decade later in the hard cover edition, which is truly the only edition you would want to buy.
The story is too beautiful to describe. It is an amazing experience. If you want to know which book out of a million to read to your children, this is the one.
HIGHLY Recommended. It is Priceless, and as an adult, I love reading this book as much as my children love hearing it. A MUST BUY, and A MUST READ!

Start teaching diversity and tolerance early on.
I received this book years ago as a holiday gift from an adult friend to an adult me! However, my grand-daughter has heard this story over and over since she was 3 or 4, and it has led to many wonderful discussions about tolerance, diversity, the Creator, taking care of Mother Earth and all her children, what "God" might be like, etc. I'm not really wild about organized religion, but through repetition and gentle discourse according to her age, I've managed to convey to her a grounded understanding of spirituality to be found in nature and in everyday life.

In addition, this has become my standard newborn baby gift.

The best spiritual book ever!
I NEVER write reviews, but I had to write about this one!

It talks of all the different aspects of the earth and their arguments with each other over what is God. Old Turtle speaks up and proclaims that God is all the things they have said, but most importantly, GOD IS.

Old Turtle then goes on to talk about how humans are coming and are a gift. The humans do come, but they forget the gift and thereby destroy much of the earth. When they remember, they realize that if they love, they will experience the gift of God again.

This is how I want to teach my son and new baby about God. Not the politics of who is "right" or "wrong." We can all just be assured that through whatever spiritual path we are all on, we can take solace in knowing that GOD IS.

Beautiful story. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Most children are captivated by snow, but how many go on to make it theirlifework? This beautiful biography, winner of the 1999 Caldecott Medal, tells the true story of a Vermont farm boy who was mesmerized by snowflakes. Wilson Bentley was fascinated by the six-sided frozen phenomena, and once he acquired a microscope with a camera, his childhood preoccupation took on a more scientific leaning. Bentley spent his life taking countless exquisite photographs (many that are still used in nature photography today), examining the tiny crystals and their delicate, mathematical structures. Jacqueline Briggs Martin tells this tale with simple, graceful prose that will engage children's imaginations. Edifying and snowflake-scattered sidebars offer more information about Bentley's methods and snowflake science. The artwork of Mary Azarian, whose 19th-century hand-press illustrations decorate the charming Barn Cat,shines once again in Snowflake Bentley, with woodcuts that reveal an appreciation for detail as well as for the man who loved snow. The lovely illustrations and equally fresh text will inspire and comfort youngsters (and grownups too) who wish they could capture snowflakes all year long. (Ages 4 to 8) --Brangien Davis ... Read more

Reviews (28)

Review of Snowflake Bentley
I really enjoyed reading the story of Snowflake Bentley. Jacqueline Briggs Martin does an excellent job of telling the accomplishments of Willian Bentley in a way that is exciting and entertaining to children. Snow brings much excitment to all children, they love playing in it and sledding so to read about a man who dedicated his life to snowflakes is fascinating. This story shows how hard Wilson Bentley worked to show the world what he loved. This story gives a great example to children, the kids see that with hard work you can accomplish whatever you want. Snowflake Bentley is not like any biography I have read before, it gives justice to William Bentley's accomplishments but written in a story like form that will interests the children. The facts on the side of each page are a great additive of information as well.

The story of Wilson Bentley and snowflakes.
This children's book, illustrated by Mary Azarian, won the 1999 Caldecott Medal for best illustrations in a book for children. It is the story of Wilson A. Bentley (1865-1931) of Jericho, Vermont, who had a passion for studying snowflakes. Having developed a technique for photographing snowflakes, he spent years collecting and giving lectures in the midst of running his farm: a true farmer-scientist. He even wrote a text called Snow Crystals. He noted the six sidedness of most crystals and a few three-sided. One wonders what he would have said upon hearing that some researchers in the late 1990s had found two identical snowflakes since he had never been able to find two that were alike. This book is a celebration not only of the man but of our love and interest in the natural world. Children will enjoy this book with its magnificent woodcuts immensely.

Wonderful book & idea -- throw a Snowflake Bentley party!
My son (7) thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was his first biography and he was very interested to learn about the farmer-scientist who loved snow. We were lucky enough to attend a Family Day at the National Museum of American History (Wash DC) where the author read the story and told the gathered families about writing, editing and publishing a book. The museum staff then had snowflake & microscope activities for children to enjoy.

My son was so inspired and excited by the story and the day's events that he suggested, when reading the book in mid January, that we throw a "Snowflake Bentley" party. We picked Feb 9th, Wilson Bentley's birthday, and invited all the neighborhood kids over. A couple of parents read the book and then kids either cut out or painted snowflakes. We had a copy of Wilson Bentley's book available so they could see all the different snowflakes he photographed. We ate cake decorated in a snowflake pattern.

It was a great way to share this wonderful book. Many of the kids requested to borrow the book afterwards.

Snowflake Bentley
...I chose Snowflake Bentley for my Caldecott Presentation in Childrens Literature. This book gives children a rich history lesson in a personal and meaningful way. It helps children to become better acquainted with a important person and learn the reasoning behind what he was interested in. The book also gives little facts on the sides of every page which are interesting to look over. I recommend this book for children and parents to read to their children.

How do they figure the Caldecott Award?
Of all the children's books I have borrowed/read, this has to be one of the best bedtime stories. I was yawning by page two, and I wasn't even tired. My daughter was looking around the room & sighing while I read it. Do the Caldecott judges keep children in mind when they award these books?

While I can appreciate the idea of living your dream, no matter the cost, the "tale" itsself was drawn out, boring and choppy. The story could have been told & illustrated with *much* more whimsy, for such an interesting fellow/life. I can imagine what a great book this could have been. ... Read more

Book Description

In autumn, a strong wind blows flower seeds high in the air and carries them far across the land. One by one, many of the seeds are lost -- burned by the sun, fallen into the ocean, eaten by a bird. But some survive the long winter and, come spring, sprout into plants, facing new dangers -- trampled by playing children, picked as a gift for a friend. Soon only the tiniest seed remains, growing into a giant flower and, when autumn returns, sending its own seeds into the wind to start the process over again.

Eric Carle's eloquent text and brilliant collages turn the simple life cycle of a plant into an exciting story, a nature lesson, and an inspiring message of the importance of perseverance. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

LOVE IT!!!
I absolutely adore this book! It is soooooo well written! Its pictures are absolutely beautiful! This book is a must for anyone with children! It is just that good! You should buy this book right away! I PROMISE that you will LOVE it too!

Dust in the wind.
A treat for both child and adult nighttime-tucker-in-person. The edition in our home came with seed packets and plastic trowel for hands on gardening by my own "Tiny Seed" when she was 5.

Bloom where you're planted...and hope for kind soil.--Laurel825

The Tiny Seed
This is a very good book. I think that this is a very inspiring story to people who might think they are too small and won't amount to anything. This is not true in this case, it just takes a little longer to develop. The others develop quckly, and they end up ending quickly to. When he keeps going on, and never really gives up. He sure thinks about giving up a lot but never really does. In the end it will work out better for the person who has to try hard to get through everything, something bad is bound to happen to you. When you tr and never give up, you will succeed. You will become bigger and better than anyone who got an east way through life.
Because you had to go through so much on your journey, when everyone else had it easy,when they have to strugge to get through things, you will get to sit back and relax.
And this story demonstrates that just because you are small you can't grow bigger or can't do things. ...

The Tiny Seed
If you want a good book for your children and want to educate them at the same time? Yes? Then you should read this book to them it tells the kids how a read gets from the plant then the seeds spread all over. In a cycle over and over. This story tells about a tiny seed like it was any person in the world because every one is different and this seed is different from all the others.

The Tiny Seed
The Tiny seed is about how a seed from any plant gets to different places to spread the plants around instead of one area. It is about how the plants cycle. ... Read more