From the Publisher
"Exploring Leaves discuss the function and diversity of leaves. In this book the author does a nice job showing the variety of leaf shapes that can be found in our world by using images of gingkos, pines, clovers, lily pads and various other plant species. At the end of the book a section called 'Facts about Leaves' and a Glossary are also good. 'Koala bears love eating the leaves of the eucalyptus tree.' (p. 21) is an example of a 'fact' that can help get young kids thinking about plants. The glossary is simple, useful, and accurate." --Science Books & Films
Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot
With minimal text and large colorful photographs, beginning readers are introduced to leaves. There is a diagram of the various plant parts which also comprise the focus of the five books in the series (flowers, leaves, roots, seeds and stems). Readers learn that plants need leaves to grow. The combination of water brought up through the stem to the leaves, sunlight, and air allow the plant to make food—the name for the process is never given. The text notes that some leaves change color but there is no explanation of why. There is an interesting comparison of a small leaf and a very large one as well as leaves that are needle shaped and those like the gingko, which are fan shaped. The spread that depicts a variety of leaves presents leaves with one blade and leaves with more than one blade, but a blade is never defined. A little research determined that this is a very complex topic and used by scientists for plant classification. Since there is no explanation it probably should have been left out because it will have little meaning for beginning readers. Another spread provides some leaf facts. People eat many leaves and among them are spinach, cabbage, and lettuce, There is a picture glossary which uses the images from the book and an index. Part of the "Let's Look at Plants" series which is part of the larger series entitled "First Step Nonfiction." Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
