Sweep Up the Sun

PreS-Gr 1--Following on the heels of Step Gently Out (Candlewick, 2012), which combines verse and photography to bring readers into the wonders of the insect world, this new title takes readers into the sky to fly with the birds. "Rise into the air/on the strength of your wings--/go out to play in the sky, /trusting it to hold you/as you learn to fly." One motivational poem stretches easily throughout the book while the photographs work with it to capture impossible split seconds of flight and rest through a variety of conditions. ("You may find yourself/shaking off raindrops/or caught in a blizzard at night /You'll pause for a quick conversation, /meet wingtip-to-wingtip/in flight.") Each page showcases a different type of bird including goldfinches, starlings, ducks, and woodpeckers, and the back matter uses the photographs to connect readers to the birds' names and basic information. The sharply focused birds stand out against blurred backgrounds, creating a stark contrast that invites close and repeated observation. VERDICT With a gentle text and dramatic visuals, this book has much to offer beginning birders, science classes, and storytimes for very young listeners.--Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA

Frost and Lieder follow Step Gently Out with another winning combination of sensitive verse and striking photography, this time taking an inspirational approach that makes the book equally well-suited for graduation gift-giving and moments of everyday encouragement. "Spread your feathers,/ sweep up the sun,/ ride the wind and explore," writes Frost as a cardinal is shown in midflight, its wings remarkably translucent against a wintry background. Detailed information about the 11 pictured birds adds heft and context to a book that will have readers marveling at these easily overlooked finches, jays, and sparrows while taking heart in its message of one's ability to thrive and even soar in a big, wide world. Ages 2-5. (Mar.)