About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking curious questions about the ladybug on the windowsill or the squirrel in the park. It is a wonderful tool for slowing down and fostering a sense of kinship with the natural world. Through 35 distinct poems, Patricia Hubbell introduces children to the 'earthmates' we often overlook, from tiny beetles to roaming bears. The collection uses various poetic forms to mimic the movement and personality of each creature. Parents will appreciate how the realistic watercolor illustrations ground the playful verse in scientific detail, making it an excellent bridge between art and biology. It is perfectly suited for children ages 5 to 9, offering a gentle, rhythmic reading experience that encourages gratitude for our environment. This is an ideal choice for a quiet bedtime or a sunny afternoon discovery session, helping children view every living thing as a neighbor worthy of respect.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and focuses on the beauty of nature. It avoids the harsher realities of the food chain, opting instead for a celebratory and observational tone. There are no depictions of death or trauma.
Ideal Reader
An observant 7-year-old who loves collecting 'treasures' from the backyard like stones or feathers, and who enjoys puzzles or wordplay. It is also perfect for a child who feels a deep, quiet empathy for animals.
