Plant the Tiny Seed

Reviewed by: Amy McInerney - Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 7, 2017

Review

Concise, rhyming words match simple yet beautiful illustrations in this interactive and educational picture book. As in Matheson’s other picture books, Tap the Magic Tree and Touch the Brightest Star, children are encouraged interact with the illustrations; tapping the seeds will plant them and wiggling fingers will bring rain. Each motion brings another step in the life cycle of a plant, the growth of which is reflected in the illustrations. The sparse, poignant text will prompt discussion about the growth of plants and young children will learn about the basic needs of flowers. Perfect for a read aloud or a lap read, this will appeal to young children who love to be active in the stories they hear. At the conclusion of the book, Matheson includes instructions on how to plant your own Zinnias, expanding upon each direction given in the narrative, and encouraging readers to plant their own flowers. Pair this picture book with informational texts about the life cycle of plants to incorporate into science lessons.

Overall Book Score: very good