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Summer Green to Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors
This nonfiction picture book, written and illustrated by Mia Posada, beautifully explains why leaves change color in fall. It highlights both the eye-catching colors of the season and the science behind the colors. Back matter offers additional scientific details for curious readers as well as suggested further reading and links to hands-on activities.
-- "Journal"
-- "Journal"
32 pages, Hardcover
First published August 6, 2019
29 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Mia Posada
10 books6 followersMia Posada grew up in Minneapolis, then studied art at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After graduating, she moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she lived until 2007 when she moved back to Minneapolis with her husband and children. Mia has written and illustrated five books: Dandelions: Stars in the Grass, Ladybugs: Red, Fiery and Bright, Robins: Songbirds of Spring, Guess What is Growing Inside This Egg, and Who Was Here?: Discovering Wild Animal Tracks. She also illustrated Dazzling Dragonflies by Linda Glaser.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 22, 2020
This fascinating book takes the reader through the seasons, instructing on chlorophyll, and the life cycle of the leaf, but the real star here is the author's stunning artwork.
Aaah! We're in the middle of an extended heat wave right now, so I'm yearning for those beautiful leaves, AND autumn's cooler temperatures.
Aaah! We're in the middle of an extended heat wave right now, so I'm yearning for those beautiful leaves, AND autumn's cooler temperatures.
May 3, 2019
2,5/5. I didn't like the arts style in this book and the informative part about the leaf cycles and importance for the tree was a bit repetitive and not informative enough in my opinion, even considering the young public it is made for. Not entirely bad, it has an unique taste to it, but it wasn't good enough to get to me!
May 5, 2019
This is a nice little non-fiction picture book that explains how and why leaves change colour through the seasons. Chlorophyll, chloroplasts, and various pigments are discussed. The concepts are fairly simple in the main text, and expanded upon a little more in the notes at the end.
I quite like the pictures here. They're done in collage, but it looks like the author has tried to stay faithful to the actual leaves (as a result, various types of leaves and the trees they come from are easily recognizable).
This book would be great in a classroom setting, especially in the fall. It's interesting and pleasant to look at. I'm well beyond the age of the target audience myself, but I learned something about leaves, too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Millbrook Press for providing a digital ARC.
I quite like the pictures here. They're done in collage, but it looks like the author has tried to stay faithful to the actual leaves (as a result, various types of leaves and the trees they come from are easily recognizable).
This book would be great in a classroom setting, especially in the fall. It's interesting and pleasant to look at. I'm well beyond the age of the target audience myself, but I learned something about leaves, too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Millbrook Press for providing a digital ARC.
June 15, 2019
This is a very pretty, colourful book, about trees and leaves. I would have liked more text content and a mention that some leaves are copper or variegated all year long. We are shown a variety of green leaves, with some named, and how they are green through summer due to chlorophyll but change in autumn to reveal reds, yellows and other pigments.
There really isn't much more to it but at the last we do get more text and facts with a brief glossary of the new words. Good for kids from three to six. The setting is north America. With luck the book will make children interested in finding out more. I would have liked to see a few crafts to make with leaves and seeds.
I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
There really isn't much more to it but at the last we do get more text and facts with a brief glossary of the new words. Good for kids from three to six. The setting is north America. With luck the book will make children interested in finding out more. I would have liked to see a few crafts to make with leaves and seeds.
I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
September 29, 2020
Author/illustrator Mia Posada, whose other ecological picture-books include
Guess What Is Growing Inside This Egg
and
Who Was Here?: Discovering Wild Animal Tracks
, turns to the subject of deciduous leaves and the transformation they undergo throughout the year in this informative new offering. A simple and easily understood explanation of the changing colors of such leaves, and what this means, is paired with lovely cut paper and watercolor illustrations that capture the beauty of each season. An afterword gives more information, as well as a glossary and links to three leaf-related experiments children can do...
Summer Green to Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors is the first book I have read from Posada, but it will certainly not be the last! Both informative and aesthetically appealing, it was enjoyable enough that I intend to track down more titles from its creator. I thought the simple explanations offered in the main narrative were clear, and would work for children of a variety of ages, while the afterword gave more detailed information that might interest slightly older children. For my own part, I thought that the information about some of the other pigments - the anthocyanins that produce red and purple colors, the carotenoids that produce the yellow and orange, the tannins that produces the brown - was the most interesting, as books of this nature often only mention chlorophyll. Recommended to young science and nature lovers, and to anyone seeking picture-books explaining photosynthesis and the changing colors of fall foliage.
Summer Green to Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors is the first book I have read from Posada, but it will certainly not be the last! Both informative and aesthetically appealing, it was enjoyable enough that I intend to track down more titles from its creator. I thought the simple explanations offered in the main narrative were clear, and would work for children of a variety of ages, while the afterword gave more detailed information that might interest slightly older children. For my own part, I thought that the information about some of the other pigments - the anthocyanins that produce red and purple colors, the carotenoids that produce the yellow and orange, the tannins that produces the brown - was the most interesting, as books of this nature often only mention chlorophyll. Recommended to young science and nature lovers, and to anyone seeking picture-books explaining photosynthesis and the changing colors of fall foliage.
September 9, 2023
I would love to thank Millbrook Press ™, Mia Posada and NetGalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is amazing!! This is not necesarilly only for children, because there are also adults who don't know about these things.
We get to see why plants are green and why they turn into different colors along the year.
This is one of the best non fiction books I've read! I would definitely buy this book for my future children!
This book is amazing!! This is not necesarilly only for children, because there are also adults who don't know about these things.
We get to see why plants are green and why they turn into different colors along the year.
This is one of the best non fiction books I've read! I would definitely buy this book for my future children!
November 9, 2019
Plenty of information presented in a friendly and attractive format.
September 12, 2019
This is an informative non-fiction picture book that explains how and why leaves change colour through the seasons. The author uses proper scientific terminology such as Chlorophyll and chloroplasts to explain about pigments and colouring. The concepts are fairly simple in the main text, but my grandson who is 5 has some trouble understanding all of it. I think it would be more suited to children aged 6 and up. The back pages explain the concepts in more detail for further discussion with older children and as an adult, I also learned a few things. The illustrations are simple and enhance the text well. This would be a great book for a primary classroom to read in the fall or during a study of plants. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
September 20, 2024
Çok güzel bir çocuk kitabıydı, bence yayinevleri Kore'nin çocuk edebiyatı eserlerine el atmalılar🤗
June 29, 2020
Summer Green to Autumn Gold artfully delves into the life cycle of trees and how they get their bold and beautiful colors, weaving science and story to make a fun and educational picture book that is perfect for nature lovers and curious little ones.
There's much to learn about trees and their leaves from this fun book. It shows us a leaf's cells, which are full of chloroplasts that are full of chlorophyll. It shares how leaves get their food and water to grow. And more specifically, it shares how leaves have pigments hiding behind the green chlorophyll that emerge when the seasons change, making this a great seasonal read as well! It also doesn't just stick to basic colors! It shares that the leaves change 'from emerald to jade to every shade in-between' and more!
I absolutely loved the bright and colorful artwork in this book. Each spread is made up of paper collages and cut-outs using paper mache to give the images and close-ups of the leaves lots of texture and depth. I love that each leaf is labeled so you can learn what tree it is from.
There is extra information about different types of leaves, pigments, and more, as well as a glossary and links to hands-on experiments that you can do with leaves and pigments!
This nonfiction picture book review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature.
There's much to learn about trees and their leaves from this fun book. It shows us a leaf's cells, which are full of chloroplasts that are full of chlorophyll. It shares how leaves get their food and water to grow. And more specifically, it shares how leaves have pigments hiding behind the green chlorophyll that emerge when the seasons change, making this a great seasonal read as well! It also doesn't just stick to basic colors! It shares that the leaves change 'from emerald to jade to every shade in-between' and more!
I absolutely loved the bright and colorful artwork in this book. Each spread is made up of paper collages and cut-outs using paper mache to give the images and close-ups of the leaves lots of texture and depth. I love that each leaf is labeled so you can learn what tree it is from.
There is extra information about different types of leaves, pigments, and more, as well as a glossary and links to hands-on experiments that you can do with leaves and pigments!
This nonfiction picture book review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature.
September 11, 2019
This book is BEAUTIFUL and informative. Even as an adult, it either refreshed my memory or taught me something I didn't know. Kids will love this!
August 10, 2020
This visually appealing non-fiction book talks about the colors in tree leaves: what makes them green and why they change color in the fall. It's not too technical making it appropriate for young readers and non-readers but also contained information that I was unaware of. There's more detailed information, including a glossary and a list of links for hands-on activities, on the last three pages.
June 8, 2019
Pretty book! I bet the illustrations will look lovely in color! the book is a nonfiction about why leaves are green and how they change color. It's a simple enough text for 2nd -5th grade, maybe even 6th.
I received a Kindle arc from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
I received a Kindle arc from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
June 6, 2019
What a lovely educational children's book! A real gem of a book!
The pictures are amazingly beautiful, the colors are vivid and the text is perfect! Young children learn everything about the colors of leaves and nature but also about leaves and so much more!
Thank you for making us discover this superbe work!
The pictures are amazingly beautiful, the colors are vivid and the text is perfect! Young children learn everything about the colors of leaves and nature but also about leaves and so much more!
Thank you for making us discover this superbe work!
July 8, 2020
Summer Green to Autumn Gold by Mia Posada. NON FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Millbrook Press (Lerner), 2019. $20. 9781541528994
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Posada writes a non-fiction foray into the power of trees. It focuses on leaves and how they grow, types of leaves, colors and more. Her illustrations are pretty and very realistic looking with layers of leaves even though they look hand cut. The science in the book is simple and powerful and make it an important addition to a school collection.
I loved the unevenness of the leaves and all the color. The illustrations were fun and the font made it appear like a child had done the book to some degree. It fills the learning about trees and leaves gap while sharing vocabulary and teaching text features.
Michele E., Library Tech Teacher and scientist
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Posada writes a non-fiction foray into the power of trees. It focuses on leaves and how they grow, types of leaves, colors and more. Her illustrations are pretty and very realistic looking with layers of leaves even though they look hand cut. The science in the book is simple and powerful and make it an important addition to a school collection.
I loved the unevenness of the leaves and all the color. The illustrations were fun and the font made it appear like a child had done the book to some degree. It fills the learning about trees and leaves gap while sharing vocabulary and teaching text features.
Michele E., Library Tech Teacher and scientist
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
November 28, 2019
This was a solid picture book explaining photosynthesis to preschool and elementary readers. I especially liked the colorful illustrations and kid-friendly language. I may want to borrow this book from the library again in the future for a science lesson.
August 17, 2019
A nice book to help you kids how the life cycle of a leave is like. Not over complicates it, introduces a few terms but explains it and shows it so they can get it. Very visual and nice to look at.
November 28, 2020
Wish there were a little more description and the art more distinct.
September 22, 2025
Rating: ★★★½ (Three and a half stars)
This book is a concise yet captivating exploration of the fascinating world of natural science, particularly focusing on the remarkable phenomenon of leaf color change. The illustrations that accompany the text are not only visually stunning but also serve to enhance the reader's understanding of the concepts discussed. The book presents an educational and informative narrative that delves into the intricate processes that govern how leaves transition from vibrant greens to stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow as seasons change. It effectively explains the science behind these transformations, exploring various factors such as temperature fluctuations, sunlight exposure, and the biochemical processes that occur within the leaves themselves.
As the seasons shift, the book articulates how these environmental changes impact the chlorophyll levels in leaves, leading to the vivid colors that we associate with autumn. It discusses the role of carotenoids and anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the yellow and red hues, respectively, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the science that underpins this natural spectacle. The language used, while scientifically accurate and rich in information, may pose a challenge for younger audiences. Therefore, it could be beneficial for parents and older readers to engage with younger ones during reading sessions, turning the experience into a fun and educational group activity.
Additionally, the inclusion of a glossary at the back of the book is a thoughtful touch, offering definitions and explanations of key terms that enhance comprehension. However, it might have been even more effective if the book had included more illustrations depicting the various environmental conditions that lead to these color changes, as well as activities that families could undertake together to explore the topic further. For instance, illustrations showing the impact of sunlight, temperature, and soil conditions on leaf color could provide valuable visual context. Furthermore, including activities such as leaf collection or color comparison charts could encourage hands-on learning and make the science feel more tangible and relatable.
Overall, while the book is a delightful introduction to the science of leaf color change, expanding on its visual elements and providing more interactive content could significantly enhance the reader's experience. This would not only make the book more engaging for children but also serve to deepen their understanding of the natural world around them. As it stands, it is a commendable resource for budding scientists and nature enthusiasts alike, particularly when shared in a family reading setting where discussions can flourish.
This book is a concise yet captivating exploration of the fascinating world of natural science, particularly focusing on the remarkable phenomenon of leaf color change. The illustrations that accompany the text are not only visually stunning but also serve to enhance the reader's understanding of the concepts discussed. The book presents an educational and informative narrative that delves into the intricate processes that govern how leaves transition from vibrant greens to stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow as seasons change. It effectively explains the science behind these transformations, exploring various factors such as temperature fluctuations, sunlight exposure, and the biochemical processes that occur within the leaves themselves.
As the seasons shift, the book articulates how these environmental changes impact the chlorophyll levels in leaves, leading to the vivid colors that we associate with autumn. It discusses the role of carotenoids and anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the yellow and red hues, respectively, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the science that underpins this natural spectacle. The language used, while scientifically accurate and rich in information, may pose a challenge for younger audiences. Therefore, it could be beneficial for parents and older readers to engage with younger ones during reading sessions, turning the experience into a fun and educational group activity.
Additionally, the inclusion of a glossary at the back of the book is a thoughtful touch, offering definitions and explanations of key terms that enhance comprehension. However, it might have been even more effective if the book had included more illustrations depicting the various environmental conditions that lead to these color changes, as well as activities that families could undertake together to explore the topic further. For instance, illustrations showing the impact of sunlight, temperature, and soil conditions on leaf color could provide valuable visual context. Furthermore, including activities such as leaf collection or color comparison charts could encourage hands-on learning and make the science feel more tangible and relatable.
Overall, while the book is a delightful introduction to the science of leaf color change, expanding on its visual elements and providing more interactive content could significantly enhance the reader's experience. This would not only make the book more engaging for children but also serve to deepen their understanding of the natural world around them. As it stands, it is a commendable resource for budding scientists and nature enthusiasts alike, particularly when shared in a family reading setting where discussions can flourish.
June 17, 2019
ARC provided by NetGalley and Lerner Publishing.
Summer Green to Autumn Gold is a largely factual telling of how seasons change, how leaves shift in color and how their cells fit into it all. The text itself is straight-forward, with certain guiding words set in bold or bright colors to break up what is otherwise information that could potentially be rather stale for a young reader not so interested in chloroplasts and chlorophylls. However, the book is a very informative, clear (if somewhat clinical) intro to elements of plant biology that excels through its fantastic artwork. The artwork is tactile, a bright mix of color paper cut outs and watercolor backgrounds to show some texture of tree bark, leaves, etc. With a digital copy, I feel like I missed out on the true capacity for the great artwork and design to shine through.
This book is designed well and those who have an eye for use of negative space and balance of images on a page will see that here. There is an emphasis on color, with descriptions of leaves like burgundy or scarlet being set in text IN THAT COLOR, which is something I particularly appreciated. This is a book that SHOWS what it is talking about. As a self-admitted Eric Carle junkie in my youth, I do have some bias. This type of art is among my favorite for childrens books. Yet, I did find the information to be laid out in an easy to digest way and feel that this would make a great addition to the shelf (right next to a couple similar Carle books) for someone who maybe wants to teach their child about the seasons and gain an understanding of nature and science.
Summer Green to Autumn Gold is a largely factual telling of how seasons change, how leaves shift in color and how their cells fit into it all. The text itself is straight-forward, with certain guiding words set in bold or bright colors to break up what is otherwise information that could potentially be rather stale for a young reader not so interested in chloroplasts and chlorophylls. However, the book is a very informative, clear (if somewhat clinical) intro to elements of plant biology that excels through its fantastic artwork. The artwork is tactile, a bright mix of color paper cut outs and watercolor backgrounds to show some texture of tree bark, leaves, etc. With a digital copy, I feel like I missed out on the true capacity for the great artwork and design to shine through.
This book is designed well and those who have an eye for use of negative space and balance of images on a page will see that here. There is an emphasis on color, with descriptions of leaves like burgundy or scarlet being set in text IN THAT COLOR, which is something I particularly appreciated. This is a book that SHOWS what it is talking about. As a self-admitted Eric Carle junkie in my youth, I do have some bias. This type of art is among my favorite for childrens books. Yet, I did find the information to be laid out in an easy to digest way and feel that this would make a great addition to the shelf (right next to a couple similar Carle books) for someone who maybe wants to teach their child about the seasons and gain an understanding of nature and science.
November 9, 2025
Reading this book feels like stepping into a quiet autumn forest, where every page glows with warmth and wonder. It invites you to pause and see how beautifully God has designed even the smallest details of His creation, how something as ordinary as a leaf carries a story of life, change, and renewal.
We learn that leaves are not simply green by chance. Their chlorophyll not only colors them but also gives life to the tree. When summer ends, the green slowly fades, revealing the hidden pigments beneath: golden carotenoids and crimson anthocyanins waiting to shine. As autumn deepens, gentle shades of brown from tannins appear, marking the trees’ peaceful rest.
The colors shift with the weather too. Bright sunlight brings out the most vivid tones before the leaves finally fall. And when they do, their story continues, returning to the soil to nourish the earth and shelter tiny lives.
This book is a tender reminder that every season carries its own kind of beauty and purpose, that even in fading, there is grace.
We learn that leaves are not simply green by chance. Their chlorophyll not only colors them but also gives life to the tree. When summer ends, the green slowly fades, revealing the hidden pigments beneath: golden carotenoids and crimson anthocyanins waiting to shine. As autumn deepens, gentle shades of brown from tannins appear, marking the trees’ peaceful rest.
The colors shift with the weather too. Bright sunlight brings out the most vivid tones before the leaves finally fall. And when they do, their story continues, returning to the soil to nourish the earth and shelter tiny lives.
This book is a tender reminder that every season carries its own kind of beauty and purpose, that even in fading, there is grace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2019
There are many books dealing with the changing colors of leaves for each season, most especially fall. This picture book does a sublime job of combining Luminous and nuanced colors with accurate text described in brief but informative lines set readably in appealing scenes, some of which also have simply labeled tags for cell parts, leaf names, etc. The complex process of photosynthesis and eventual leaf drop is presented in very accessible stages without losing the narrative appeal. The text does not shy away from detailed vocabulary for colors and scientific terms, but they are embedded in the minimalist text so that they make sense and do not distract.
The seasonal cycle includes winter for resting, spring for emerging; leaves and nesting, followed by brief bu accurate and accessible backmatter about coniferous and deciduous leave, pigments, world/regional differences, a simple glossary, and suggested hands-on experiments.
The seasonal cycle includes winter for resting, spring for emerging; leaves and nesting, followed by brief bu accurate and accessible backmatter about coniferous and deciduous leave, pigments, world/regional differences, a simple glossary, and suggested hands-on experiments.
December 12, 2022
So so beautiful. The tissue paper artwork reminded me of Eric Carle, but it's much more detailed and scientifically accurate. The medium is a perfect fit for the subject. I can imagine it inspiring art projects and science experiments alike.
The text itself is informative, but easy to understand. I think younger grades would need to learn some of the vocabulary before starting in on the book, while upper elementary classes could just jump right in.
At the end of the book, there is some more detailed info, and links for suggested science experiments. I read it as an e-book, so it was easy to just click the links. I wonder if the e-book will have to be updated if the linked sites are ever taken down - and of course the physical copies would not get that update. I wonder why Posada didn't make pages for those experiments instead.
All in all, though, I would definitely recommend it both for individuals and for classrooms!
The text itself is informative, but easy to understand. I think younger grades would need to learn some of the vocabulary before starting in on the book, while upper elementary classes could just jump right in.
At the end of the book, there is some more detailed info, and links for suggested science experiments. I read it as an e-book, so it was easy to just click the links. I wonder if the e-book will have to be updated if the linked sites are ever taken down - and of course the physical copies would not get that update. I wonder why Posada didn't make pages for those experiments instead.
All in all, though, I would definitely recommend it both for individuals and for classrooms!
September 30, 2019
It's as if there is a contest unknown to humans. It happens annually. This year the champion resides in my neighborhood. More than a month ago, it burst into brilliance, nearly overnight. You could almost hear it shouting---"I won! I won!" Even today it stands out in a sea of green here and in contrast to the rolling hills behind it.
Predictions are in place for when the rest of the trees will be releasing their vivid colors. Time will tell if they will ring true.
Summer Green To Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors (Millbrook Press, August 8, 2019) written and illustrated by Mia Posada explains with careful clarity the science behind the shift of hues in our trees from season to season.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
Predictions are in place for when the rest of the trees will be releasing their vivid colors. Time will tell if they will ring true.
Summer Green To Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors (Millbrook Press, August 8, 2019) written and illustrated by Mia Posada explains with careful clarity the science behind the shift of hues in our trees from season to season.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
June 9, 2019
I received a free digital copy of this title for an honest review from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book takes a complex science topic and breaks it down into easy-to-understand information with bright and colorful pages! As an educator, I enjoyed that each page featured a bold and enlarged word, mainly adjectives and strong verbs.
I enjoyed reading this with my 5 year old and he was able to ask appropriate questions regarding the text. He also enjoyed finding animals hidden among the pictures.
I would recommend this book as an additional resource to any botany or autumn themed studies! This would also serve well as a resource to Classical Conversations Cycle 1 science memory work!
#netgalley #summergreentoautumngold
This book takes a complex science topic and breaks it down into easy-to-understand information with bright and colorful pages! As an educator, I enjoyed that each page featured a bold and enlarged word, mainly adjectives and strong verbs.
I enjoyed reading this with my 5 year old and he was able to ask appropriate questions regarding the text. He also enjoyed finding animals hidden among the pictures.
I would recommend this book as an additional resource to any botany or autumn themed studies! This would also serve well as a resource to Classical Conversations Cycle 1 science memory work!
#netgalley #summergreentoautumngold
October 23, 2021
This is an excellent book to use to teach kids about leaves and the science behind their colors. It tells what makes leaves green and how they change color in the Fall.
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this picture book. It is informative while using vivid illustrations and wording meant for children to explain leaves’ colors.
The font changes using different colors making words stand out. There are extra illustrations to show what is happening inside the leaves. There is a glossary at the end as well as some websites to go to for related activities.
This is a perfect book to throw in a science kit for lessons about this topic. It is also a great one to read at home. Knowledge is power, right?
Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this picture book. It is informative while using vivid illustrations and wording meant for children to explain leaves’ colors.
The font changes using different colors making words stand out. There are extra illustrations to show what is happening inside the leaves. There is a glossary at the end as well as some websites to go to for related activities.
This is a perfect book to throw in a science kit for lessons about this topic. It is also a great one to read at home. Knowledge is power, right?
Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
May 15, 2019
Cash-strapped school libraries can still consider this attractive volume, even if it concerns but one small subject. It conveys very briefly and very nicely the science and 'art' if you like of trees changing colours in the autumn, and the leaf cycle. But in that very sentence you find why I would never recommend it to anyone I know here in the UK – for this is full of "colors" and the season of "fall", which is a term that went out of fashion centuries ago. That said, the craft in the visuals makes up for it, and people who use North American English – and know the North American trees this refers to – will certainly get a lot out of it.
June 2, 2019
Thank you #netgalley for giving me a copy of #summergreentoautumngold to review. I love non-fiction picture books. I have seen many that talk about leaves and plants and the food process for plants, but this is the first I have read that talks about the changing colors on a cellular level. The information is given in a way that is easily understood by young kids, but still entertaining to the older kids that I teach. I recommend this book for Pre-K through 5th grade. You could use it with older kids in the context of a science class for introducing plant life.
August 30, 2022
A nonfiction book about how and why leaves change colors. It discusses chlorophyll and its role for keeping leaves green. Also, as the days get cooler, chlorophyll fades and reveals the yellow and orange pigments it was hiding. It also goes on to explain why the trees drop their leaves and how the fallen leaves feed the forest floor. It goes over the whole cycle of a tree's leaves. It explains the process simply and does not get too technical, but presents basic scientific vocabulary. This book would be great to either introduce this concept or to serve as a review.
June 30, 2020
My biggest gripe with book is about how my library catalogs it. It needs to be in the non-fiction section. Because that is what this book is--a non-fiction text about chlorophyll. No joke.
Granted it's interesting. And makes the topic of photosynthesis approachable, understandable, and easy to get. There isn't a story to it. (Which is okay)
Definitely worth having for classroom science units!
Granted it's interesting. And makes the topic of photosynthesis approachable, understandable, and easy to get. There isn't a story to it. (Which is okay)
Definitely worth having for classroom science units!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews