Bees, Snails, & Peacock Tails and Birdsongs

PreS-Gr 2—Two books (S & S/Margaret McElderry Books, 2008, 2007) with complementary themes written by poet Betsy Franco and illustrated by Steve Jenkins celebrate the natural world. Poetry and vivid textured collage illustrations introduce patterns and shapes in nature and on animals (peacock feathers, moth wings, a bee hive, and more) and bird songs (while counting from ten down to one). Franco's well-paced narration of the short poems allows time for the movement of the camera to focus on the illustrations. Additional material appended to the books, such as "feathery facts," is also read. In an informal but informative " Conversation with the Author," Franco focuses on her inspiration, writing process, interests, and these specific titles; Jenkins's artwork illustrates this segment as well. This engaging production will be useful in early childhood and primary grade classrooms to present a basic nature lesson that will lead to additional research.—Maria Salvadore, formerly Washington DC Public Library