Before the Seed

February 12, 2024
Buhrman-Deever delves into the world of pollen in this inquiry-based discussion of what happens “before the seed grows the green.” Though the text only indirectly defines pollen, an opening question (“How can pollen move?”) offers
a touchpoint as pages feature the role that wind, water, and
various pollinators perform in helping transport the substance. Meanwhile, ample asterisks scattered throughout provide impressive stats (“77,000 beetle species visit flowers”) and further information about varied species’ innovative aspects—such as how one vine’s dish-shaped leaves attract pollinating bats by reflecting sounds for echolocation. Incorporating scans of ink and acrylic paint, Triplett and Curtius’s digital artwork features oversize visuals of flora and fauna alike; while some imagery relies on thick-penned outlines and basic coloring, others have an Audubon-esque amount of detail, resulting in a collage-like mash-up. As further queries prompt examination of how plants ensure their pollen doesn’t go to waste, a “moving” scientific portrayal of interdependence emerges. Includes an author’s note and bibliography. Ages 7–9.

March 1, 2024
Grades 2-4 This lovely picture book describes how pollen travels around to make it possible for plants and flowers to create seeds. The book features three story lines. The first is a straightforward narration that directly aligns with the illustrations and features simple descriptive sentences. The second introduces additional information through brief paragraphs--marked off by large asterisks--featuring slightly more technical vocabulary and bringing in examples of plants and flowers that grow in places all over the world. The third line is developed through the beautiful, vibrant illustrations. Minutely detailed, close-up drawings of flowers and plants and their various pollinators (birds, bees, bugs, beetles, and so on) alternate with lush green landscapes that sweep across pages. Some picture books about plants and flowers tend to relegate the important process of pollination to a sentence or two, so it's nice to see this crucial step get due recognition. This eye-catching title with its generous back matter (tips for protecting and helping pollinators, a diagram of flower parts, glossary, bibliography, and list of resources) comes just in time for spring.

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