Tree, wildflower, and mushroom spotting

Gr 3--7--A thorough introduction on how to use many avenues to identify trees, wildflowers, and mushrooms. Carson encourages young readers to safely but boldly immerse themselves in observing surroundings and provides the scientific vocabulary to help them. Dawson uses many resources, including his own art, to illustrate. Unfortunately, in their zeal to teach children the intricacies of plant life in a memorable way, they made it an interactive workbook. Children, after educating themselves and getting instructions on what to do, would take this 400-plus page tome and input their findings into it. Most public and school libraries will hesitate circulating it after their young patrons have written their findings and drawn their plant likenesses within it. There is no separate workbook that a Natural Science teacher could use to save the book for future use. This is unfortunate, because the clear writing and inviting illustrations work to teach and excite. If schools could buy it for each and every student to take home after their school year, that would be phenomenal. The suggested activities are teachable moments and would prepare students for a lifetime of learning. Back matter includes an index that has not yet been populated. VERDICT This is a wonderful interactive workbook, which would be difficult to place on library shelves. It might be of use as part of programming.--Nancy Call

The latest book in the Outdoor School series tackles plants and fungi. Like the previous books in the series, this guide cuts no corners in its layout, information, and presentation--beginning with the physical book, which is bound in a rugged, flexible material with metal reinforced edges and with handy rulers in both centimeters and inches printed on the back cover. Inside, the book is divided into five parts. The first gives a clear overview of the subject matter: the how, what, and where of plant spotting (including the all-important safety guidelines). The remaining four sections cover in-depth looks at trees and shrubs, wildflowers, ferns and mosses, and mushrooms and fungi, respectively. Each part is arranged similarly: Terminology is defined, and each subject is given an in-depth treatment with copious illustrations naming parts, how they reproduce, their environment, and more. Interspersed throughout are sections labeled "Try It," "Track It," and "Take It to the Next Level" that invite readers to activate their minds and get their hands dirty while they get up close and personal with nature. An illustrated identification guide concludes each part with space for readers to note what they saw, as well as when, where, and any further information. Another plus: Color-coding makes quick reference easier. While other nature guides give information, the Outdoor School is notable for encouraging readers to directly participate. Another stunning addition to this stellar series. (index) (Nonfiction. 8-14) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.