N Is For Nutmeg: A Connecticut Alphabet .

Discover America State By State

by Elissa D. Grodin, Maureen K. Brookfield (Illustrator)

"N is for the Nutmeg State, but please don't be misled.
These aren't exactly real ones, but carved from wood, instead."

As one of the 13 original colonies, the state of Connecticut has played a pivotal role in our nation's history -- from its Revolutionary War figures such as Nathan Hale to its captains of industry and invention. "N is for Nutmeg" entertains as it informs readers on the history and geography, facts and folklore of Connecticut -- learn why Groton is the submarine capital of the world and how Samuel Clemens got his pen name.

Genres: Childrens, Geography, Picture Books

40 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2003

About the author

Elissa D. Grodin is a physics buff who writes mysteries featuring Edwina Goodman, an assistant professor and theoretical physicist at an Ivy League college in New England. Edwina, who often kayaks on the river in order to do some of her best thinking, is self-effacing, indefatigably curious, and brilliant. Her boyfriend, Will Tenney, is a police detective in their little college town of New Guilford. With her uncanny ability to analyze cause and effect, Edwina occasionally proves herself to be of invaluable assistance to police investigations. Her mathematical way of seeing the world allows her unusual insights into the most baffling cases.

Elissa Grodin lives in Connecticut and New York City.

Reviews

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wonder about people who vote for their state nickname to be one of pride in deceiving other people in business! Otherwise, this is an interesting and informative book for people of all ages.

[Mother Goose Librarian]

N is for Nutmeg: A Connecticut Alphabet by Elissa D. Grodin is part of the Discover America State by State Alphabet Series. I love this beautiful and insightful book series and am collecting each book, as I’d love to visit each state. N is for Nutmeg is replete with interesting facts and history about the geography of the state of Connecticut. Each page or sometimes, double page spread includes an alphabet letter with a fact about the state, along with rhyming text that describes the fact. Additionally, there is a more in depth paragraph outlining the particulars of the fact. Rich, detailed illustrations accompany each fact. Illustrations look to have been created with watercolor. Whether you live in, are planning to visit, or are simply interested in learning more about Connecticut, you must check out N is for Nutmeg. I highly recommend this book, as well as the other books in the series. Back matter includes a state quiz and author and illustrator information.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful book is filled with scenic watercolors, cute rhymes, and lots of state information. Each page – or two – features a rhyme corresponding to a letter of the alphabet and telling something about the Connecticut’s history. There is more information about the fact in the rhyme at the side of the page. Famous residents such as Mark Twain and Noah Webster appear along with state nicknames (Nutmeg and Constitution) and symbols (state flower, tree, bird, etc.). Several historical anecdotes and state trivia are included for an interested reader, but the rhymes well be easily memorized by younger children. Even adults may find information they didn’t know about Connecticut! I think every child who lives in Connecticut, was born here, or is studying the state should read this book. I can’t wait to see the others in the series!

[Amara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was better than the others.

Why?

Because I actually learned something.

I'm from the Land of Cotton. I had no idea Eli Whitney was from anywhere other than the South, let alone Conneticut. I also had no idea the origin of the word "gin" was a shortened from of "engine". We were "educated" on the cotton gin and its invention and subsequent effects upon our economics and culture every year of grade school through high school. I never learned those two tidbits.

There were some other fun tidbits in the book that were new information for me, but I'll let you read it:)

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this factual picture book. It would be a great book to hand to a kid because the facts are presented simply, then followed by a rhyme to help with memory. The watercolors are beautifully done and even adults may learn something new about the state.

[Theresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

pictures, history, facts, information and ideals about connecticut

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful pictures. For an older child because of the information and vocabulary levels.

[Jus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book for my niece and nephew. Lovely illustrations and facts. A factual book about Connecticut with questions at the end.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I still absolutely love the pictures and the idea behind the book was good but I felt like parts didn't work.

[Samira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations.