Alphabet Everywhere

Gr 1–3—The author's experience as an architectural photographer translates into more than a hundred images that challenge readers to find as many forms as possible that "resemble the alphabet in ways that are accidental." Youngsters will find the expected "A" formed in the frame of a ladder, a steel I-beam, B- and C-shaped door handles, or a "Z" on a garage door, but sidewalk shadows and nature images such as the blossoming tulip (V), a serrated grapevine leaf (M), or an ocean wave approaching the shore (R), move beyond man-made art and architecture and are more difficult to pick out. An unusual collection of photographic art from city to country, this compendium includes creative angles and perspectives, further informing readers with a final index of all the photo sources. Compare this book's artistry and imagination to Krystina Castella and Brian Boyl's Discovering Nature's Alphabet (Heyday, 2006) or combine it with Stephen Johnson's Alphabet City (Viking, 1995). This collection of images stretches through 60 pages, perhaps a challenge for younger readers, although the die-cut ABC on the cover is instantly eye-catching. A general purchase for all libraries.—Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano ISD, TX