Over in a River: Flowing Out to the SeaBy Marianne BerkesIllustrated by Jill Dubin
This is a delightful counting and rhyming book that introduces children to manatees, herons, salmon, beavers, and other river animals and their babies. Simple maps show what part of the country these animals can be found. Additional material at the end of the book talks about the importance of rivers and gives more information about the rivers featured in this book. (Did you know that the U.S. has more than 250,000 rivers and Canada has even more?!) More details about the animals in the book, as well as nature-related tips from the author and illustrator, are included. (I love how Jill Dubin shares how she illustrates a book.) Finally, kids can sing along to the words (and accompanying notes, for those who play an instrument) to the song, “Over in a River.”
Noisy Frog Sing-AlongWritten and illustrated by John Himmelman
John Himmelman’s previous publication was Noisy Bug Sing-Along, and now kids can sing along to the music of frogs! Only male frogs sing, but boys and girls both will love to peep like a Peeper Frog, plunk like a Green Frog, and growl like a Pickerel Frog! Information at the end of the book introduces readers to many more species of frogs, along with activities, such as looking for tadpoles and getting frogs to eat out of their hand. Kids will have fun doing their best frog imitations while learning about the wonderful qualities of frogs.
Jo MacDonald Hiked in the WoodsBy Mary QuattlebaumIllustrated by Laura J. Bryant
This is another delightful addition to the Jo MacDonald series by Mary Quattlebaum. Jo is actually the granddaughter of “Old MacDonald,” and together she and her grandpa hike in the woods surrounding his farm. Kids can sing along to the familiar “E-I-E-I-O” song but with new lyrics reflecting the nine animals they see or hear in the woods, such as a woodpecker, squirrel, turkey, and even a skunk! At the end of the book, parents and kids can learn more about not only the forest animals, but many of the plants and trees, too. Forest-themed indoor activities, more information about trees, and tips on being a naturalist are included.
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