Synopsis
Examines the characteristics of different types of leaves and explains how and why they change colors in the autumn.
| Details | | Publication Date: | 1998-09-01 |
| Size | | Length: | 39 pages | | Height: | 10.3 in | | Width: | 8.5 in | | Thickness: | 0.8 in | | Weight: | 13.6 oz |
Publisher's Note
Bright, crisp photos fill this book of natural science for the young. Ken Robbins departs from his signature hand-tinted photography to present preschoolers with a sharp, close-up look at 13 types of trees ablaze with color. Full color.
Industry Reviews
Robbins's (the Elements series) striking photo-essay will prove indispensable for fall nature walks. In effect, it is an album of autumn leaves, shown life-size and in their changing colors; Robbins has veered from his characteristic medium of tinted photographs and instead transmitted these photos as is, making his subjects as recognizable as possible. On most double spreads, silhouette photographs in pristine focus share white space with a photograph of the tree from which the leaves actually come (birch, gingko, linden, sassafras, etc.), sun-dappled and situated in splendid natural landscapes. (It would have been helpful had the author specified general geographic regions.) Some of the leaves are not perfect, e.g., shown with holes gnawed by insects, which adds an endearing touch. The accompanying text is simply worded and informative: "All leaves have veins. The veins of some leaves are quite easy to see." The last page offers a short explanation of photosynthesis, employing correct scientific terms for the chemicals that make the leaves turn colors, i.e., chlorophyll and anthocyanin. Robbins's work demonstrates his careful observation and reverence for nature. The clarity of the format will prove both a joy for young students and a boon for teachers. Ages 2-5. (Sept.)
Bukey
PreS-Gr 3-Observe "...carefully and see what you see...." advises Robbins in this celebration of the autumnal world. Beginning with an introduction to the wide variety of leaves to be seen, the author then presents a baker's dozen of trees and their fall-colored leaves from the rarer smoke tree, through the sassafras and yellow poplar, to the more common maples. Each variety is accompanied by a life-size, full-color photograph of one or more leaves on one page, with a photograph of the tree or some of its branches facing it. One or two simple sentences give a description or a snippet of information. About sassafras leaves, children are told, "Some even look like mittens," while fern leaf beech leaves, when dry "...look like question marks." A page on photosynthesis, the chemicals that give the leaves their colors, and the processes involved in a leaf's dying complete the attractive package. Eye-catching, crisp, colorful, and sure to be enjoyed-much as the vivid leaves themselves.-Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY
Spalding
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