We all know how hard it can be to wait for spring to come. No one explains this time of longing and transition more simply and beautifully than Kevin Henkes in his new picture book, "When Spring Comes." In simple sentences, Henkes expresses the drawn-out longing and expectant waiting of late winter, "If you wait, Spring will make the leftover mounds of snow smaller and smaller and smaller until suddently--they're gone." Changes come slowly until the watchful longing is fulfilled in Spring, "There will be buds and bees and boots and bubbles. There will be worms and wings and wind and wheels." But don't get too comfortable, because "Now, you have to wait for summer." Lushly illustrated in bright, vibrant colors by Laura Dronzek, "When Spring Comes" gently celebrates the joys of changing seasons for readers in preschool to first grade.
--Andrea W., Headquarters
"Maple" by Lori Nichols is a sweet little story about trees, seasons, sisters, and names. We begin with Maple, who, "when she was still a whisper, her parents planted a tiny tree in her honor!" As Maple grows from infant to toddler to preschooler, so does her tree. "Then something surprising happened." Another tree is planted, and along comes a baby sister to get to know and introduce to her favorite tree. This gentle tale with a fun surprise at the end is delightfully illustrated and sure to be loved by the young tree-lovers in your life. Recommended for preschool to grade one.
--Andrea W., Headquarters
