Plant Patterns. (Science Kids). Aaron Carr. New York, NY: AV²/Weigl (Distributed in Canada by Saunders Book Co.), 2012. 24 pp., hardcover, $25.70. ISBN 978-1-61690-946-8. Subject Headings: Pattern perception-Juvenile literature. Color in nature-Juvenile literature. Kindergarten-grade 2 / Ages 5-7. Review by Ellen Heaney. ** /4

Weigl Educational Publishers, the curriculum materials publisher based in Calgary, has long been known to the library market for its specialization in Canadian subjects in both French and English. Now it has expanded into the science field with AV² books. This imprint is described as being ‘media enhanced’: a code at the front of each book allows access to a website which features video and audio clips expanding on the topic, along with quizzes and web links.

     Plant Patterns is in the “Science Kids” series, which also includes Animal Patterns, Big and Small and Exploring Colors. Very clear, bright colour photographs are captioned with statements printed in a large typeface using a controlled vocabulary. The format of question and answer invites prediction, for example: “What patterns do these plant leaves make?”, with a small ‘teaser’ picture. Turning the page, we read “What pattern do you see?” on the left hand page, and on the page facing, “Some plant leaves make a spiral pattern.” which accompanies a full-page photo of a green succulent.

     As with many series of this kind, the focus is narrow, and the written information is limited. At nearly $26 per volume, this book and its companion volumes are probably best considered for purchase by school libraries supporting specific science units or needing nonfiction early reader material.

Recommended with reservations.

Ellen Heaney is Head, Children’s Services at the New Westminster Public Library, New Westminster, BC.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

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Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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