Things that grow

Gr 2-5-This beautifully illustrated small-format book investigates various types of growth in nature. The text starts with plant life, followed by animals and, finally, the universe. Each spread within a section examines different types of growth, from the very typical seed-to-plant sequence to more unique examples, such as the axolotl lizard's life cycle. Human evolution is discussed briefly as well, but there is little information beyond the explanation that people have evolved. The visuals are well tailored to reflect the text and are welcoming and detailed. The content is presented in a conversational tone, and the browsable facts are accessible for even young readers. VERDICT Kids interested in the natural world will devour this quiet but fascinating selection.--Ellen Norton, Naperville Public Library, IL © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

A compendium of things in the universe that growincluding the universe itselfpresented in an illustrated informational picture book divided into chapters.Vast processes (the growth of mountains through plate tectonics) are combined with specific examples (the echidna doesn't develop its spines until it leaves its mother's pouch) to successfully explore this book's ambitious premise: all things in our universe "develop and grow with every passing day." This is a big idea for young readers, and because the topic of the evolution of humans occupies only two of the book's 64 pages, it also underscores the important concept that humans are only one small part of an expansive, growing, changing universe. The book is divided into three sections: "Plants and Trees," "The Animal Kingdom," and "The Universe." Walden selects her facts and examples not only to inform readers, but to stimulate in them a curiosity that may propel further exploration. Stadtlander's numerous illustrationsaccessibly simple but not amateurishalong with the book's small, unusual trim size (7.5 inches long by 5.8 inches high), give the book almost the look and feel of a child's journal, which makes the weighty topics approachable. The only drawback is the book's ending (a spread on islands rather than a summation of what's gone before), which feels inconclusive. A gem of a small book, thoughtfully made for small hands and, with its heavy paper and sewn binding, loving handling. (Informational picture book. 6-12) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.