We would like to thank the Orland Park Public Library for providing this book for review.
SEED, SOIL, SUN: EARTH’S RECIPE FOR FOOD
by Cris Peterson,
photos by David Lundquist
32 pages, ages 4-8
Boyds Mill Press, 2010
How does a corn seed approximately the size of your fingernail grow into a tall, towering plant (up to 12 feet) with roots that reach six feet into the ground? Peterson, a Wisconsin dairy farmer, shares an insider’s scoop on how to grow healthy crops. The secret is seeds, soil, sun—and a splash of water. The importance and function of each of these elements is explained in simple language, and it all begins with the seed. Engaging, easy-to-read paragraphs are paired with Lunquist’s eye-popping, full-color photos. One snapshot shows seeds of various shapes, sizes, and colors held in the outstretched palms of eight children. Text explains that tiny organisms live in the soil. They add nutrients which are needed by growing plants. A close-up shows earthworms tunneling through the soil, another shows a tender green shoot and its tiny, hair-like roots. Readers will learn about the sun’s role in coaxing seedlings from the ground and the process of photosynthesis. What is the end result of “seeds, sun, and soil”? A bountiful harvest of luscious fruits, vegetables, and flowers!
This is not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill book about the life cycle of plants. Sun, Soil, Seeds not only underscores the miraculous cycle of seedtime and harvest, but also reminders readers of the important job farmers have providing us with a variety of foods. The final page includes a brief bibliography and recommended reading list for further study. Check out the downloadable lesson plan produced by the American Farm Bureau Foundation: http://www.maefonline.com/attachments/File/AgLiteracyLessonPlan.pdf
Cris Peterson, a dairy farmer, is the author of ten children’s books. She has been honored by a number of dairy and agricultural organizations in United States. In 2004 she was named National Dairy Woman of the Year. Ms. Peterson is also the recipient of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation’s 2011 Award for Children’s Literature. It is the sixth time one of her books has been chosen for this award. To learn more about Cris Peterson and her books, visit: http://crispeterson.crosstown-creative.com/
—Review and Bio by Heidi Bee Roemer
This post is part of the Nonfiction Monday Round-Up hosted this week by Simply Science blog.
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