Do you know a young child who loves to look under rocks and roll over logs to check what lives there? A Log’s Life by Wendy Pfeffer, illustrated by Robin Brickman is that kind of experience.
Books about the life of a tree often give emphasis to the botanical process of growing and development. Not so many books talk about the importance of the tree, and the log that remains after the tree falls, to the community of animals, plants and fungi around it. This book fills that gap for the youngest reader in an interesting and refreshing way.
The illustrations are unique 3D paper sculptures. They really must be seen to be appreciated, so go to Simon & Schuster where you can browse inside to see for yourself.
I like that the book includes discussion questions and ideas for activities in the back. I have a feeling that in this case they might be redundant, as the text and illustrations are likely to generate plenty of discussion on their own.
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Aladdin (March 6, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416934839
ISBN-13: 978-1416934837
Nonfiction Monday is a blogging celebration of nonfiction books for kids. For more information, stop by Anastasia Suen’s Nonfiction Monday page. This week’s post is at In Need of Chocolate.
This book looks really interesting. You’re right–there’s not much out there about what happens to a fallen tree. I learned this sort of thing later in life and what a great way to introduce kids interested in science to the life forms underneath.