School Library Journal - Frances E. Millhouser

These titles explain the life cycles of three plants in brightly illustrated narratives. From seed to seedling, vine, and finally full-grown fruit, the life-cycle of the pumpkin is clearly and colorfully described. Bright and engaging full-color photographs amplify the text on each page. The complicated cycle of a field mushroom begins with the basic difference between fungi and green plants—fungi live without needing sunlight. The photographs of a mushroom –hunting fox show that mushrooms are more than pizza toppings in the food chain. The oak tree’s life cycle can last hundreds of years, and it begins with the moment an acorn takes root in the spring. The mature tree’s vital place in the environment is illustrated by some of the life it supports. Each book includes a footer along the bottom of the pages that shows chronological development, e.g., the oak as acorn, sapling, catkins, new acorns, at age 70, and hundreds of years old. Easily accessible information in attractive packages. Recommended—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA <i> School Library Journal</i> December 2009