The Spring Book

by Todd Parr

New York Times bestselling author Todd Parr captures the beauty of spring in this sweet and silly book about the wonders of a season.

With his colorful illustrations, playful humor, and inclusive storytelling, beloved author Todd Parr has long been a favorite among young readers and caregivers. His books promote an essential message of love and acceptance that is inspiring, empowering, and accessible.

Spring is here! The birds are singing. 
Everyone is sneezing—ACHOO!
And change is in the air. 

From rolling down hills and dancing in the rain to celebrating mothers and honoring heroes everywhere, spring is a wonderful time of year! Todd Parr uses his signature blend of humor and heart to introduce young readers to all the delights of the season. 

Genres: Picture Books, Storytime, Childrens, Animals, Juvenile, Nature, Holiday

32 pages, Hardcover

Published February 16, 2021

About the author

Todd Parr is a three-time New York Times-bestselling author and illustrator of more than fifty books for children. He has inspired and empowered children around the world with simple, hopeful, and powerful messages such as “be kind”, “love yourself” and “be who you are,” all set with vibrant images in eye-catching primary colors. His books have received numerous awards and are available in nearly twenty languages. He also is the co-creator of the popular three-time Daytime Emmy©-nominated animated TV series, "ToddWorld" with Gerry Renert of SupperTime Entertainment. Several short films for Sesame Street have also been based on Parr’s work.

Parr devotes time to numerous philanthropic causes supporting pet adoption, children’s hunger, health, and literacy. He is a frequent reader and fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House and serves on the board of directors for the Virginia Children’s Book Festival. His corporate collaborations include Best Buy, Stouffer’s, and the San Francisco–Marin Food Bank, among others.

A native of Wyoming, Parr currently lives in Berkeley, California.

Reviews

[Abby Johnson]

I love me some Todd Parr. With his signature whimsy and humor, Parr here presents an overview of spring, from its unpredictable weather and allergy-inducing pollen to a variety of holidays of celebrated in spring (depicted, though not specified in text are Passover and Easter and then just general "festivals"). This is a good overview that will add to your spring storytimes if you enjoy Todd Parr. Skip it if you're not a Parr fan (sad face, but you do you!).

[Molly Cluff (Library!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

An adorable book about springtime--I love the "fake out" right in the middle where the author pretends the book is over, but it's just an April Fools prank. Signature bright and colorful Todd Parr style--charming!

[Aliza Werner · Rating 2 out of 5]

All inclusive ends up being generic. And incorrect…why is there a challah on a Passover Seder table?

[Jj · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, the board book adaptation is of course somewhat different from the original hardcover 32 page picture book. Just looking at reviews here, I can't find any trace of an April Fool's Day *anything*, much less in the middle of the book--and the Passover/Easter page features matzoh rather than challah. But regardless, page 2 says "every day the weather is different" and I honestly have to say this is pretty spot on for spring weather and I appreciate that.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sweetest story-I brought this to the place where I teach writing, public speaking, and STEM programming. One of my dear students picked it up and said, "Can I read this?" Other students wanted to read this out loud, so we sat in a circle. Everyone read two pages and then passed the picture book to the next person. I don't think I've ever had so much fun reading a picture book to a class. :)

[Elizabeth]

This might be my favorite of all of Todd Parr's books. He included a lot of important days and topics that occur in the spring, including celebrating women during International Women's Day.

Edit: I just thought of one more event that happens each spring that could have been included: National Library Week!

[Lauren]

Parr here presents an overview of spring, from its unpredictable weather and allergy-inducing pollen to a variety of holidays of celebrated in spring. Vivid illustrations depict all aspects of spring. It is very bright throughout the book and has a nice flow. However, they could be a little better with some more realistic pictures.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to be honest I read this book in the fall season, but it made me appreciate Spring season much more. Can’t wait for when that comes! Lovely book. Todd Parr honestly has those memorable illustrations from when I was a kid. I as an adult now have a chance to read all of his books, which is so exciting!

[Kate prefers books to people · Rating 2 out of 5]

What I like about Todd Parr: bright colors & distinctive style

Best part about this book: the April Fool's Day gag.

Why this book didn't get a higher rating: the Women's Day March. Inclusion, good. Politics in my toddler's books.... I'll pass.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personally, I'm not a fan of Parr's intentionally toddler-like illustration style, but this book does what it sets out to do--presents a variety of sights and sounds (and sneezes) of the spring season.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than I expected. Very simple, very exuberant, obviously. I can imagine some folks adoring it. In fact, the librarian said that Parr is very popular among her young patrons. Not something I need more of, though, and not something I care to particularly recommend.

[Lisa D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Love this author! Cute spring book!

[Lisa Newman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my favorite Todd Parr book. Such a fun and clever way to walk us through the spring season. I hope he adds more of these season type books to his collection!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy first day of spring! A cheerful, happy book about celebrating the many events of spring. Colorful, lively illustrations. A great addition to your picture book library.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens in Spring? Read this amazing book to find out! From birds singing to Memorial Day this book is told with the authors wonderful and colorful illustrations.

[Millie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this simple and colourful Spring Book.

[kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

alright

[Brandon Khan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Miss Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

A preschool and up book featuring bright illustrations and short phrases about holidays and events in spring.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Todd Parr!

[Emily]

Short

[L.A. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not has the best, in my opinion. But also maybe just young for my toddler who doesn’t understand the various springtime holidays.

[Lisa Goich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Todd Parr!

His books make the world happier. His colors make the world brighter. His words make the world sing.

Todd Parr is inspiration.

Love,
Lisa

[Holle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book would be a fun inspiration for an art project for kids.

[Andrés · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a cheerful, colorful book that adds some springtime features and celebrations that are not often included in other spring books, eg Memorial Day, Mother's Day, International Women's Day.

[BCPL Youth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Todd Parr

[Dedra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading Todd Parr's books to my story time kids. The primary colors and simple illustrations hold their attention, and I love the content.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure sweetness and wholesome

[KaitandMaddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apparently today is Todd Parr’s Be Yourself Day (perhaps only according to the publisher, but any excuse for a reading binge…)

Maddie and I read a stack from the library.

[Emily Wiet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve become a fan of Todd!