We Dig Worms!
(Toon Books Level 1)

K-Gr 2--Earthworms are a common and curious encounter for young children and in this book McCloskey sets about providing a general understanding of what earthworms do. Though a fair amount of basic facts are incorporated into the text, some of the phrases may raise more questions than answers, including the ability of earthworms to feel light through their skin and to move and breath easier when the soil is wet. And then there are phrases which will seem perplexing to a young audience, such as "When worms dig, twisting and turning, they make the earth... earthier." The acrylic and gouache illustrations painted on recycled paper bags gives the illustrations an appealing texture and the mix of speech bubbles and captioned text helps to draw kids' eyes to various details on the page. Otherwise, the content feels disjointed and lacking a follow-through on some of the ideas introduced. VERDICT Consider as an additional selection for those interested in backyard exploring.--Matthew C. Winner, Ducketts Lane Elementary School, Elkridge, MD

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

McCloskey comes not to bury worms (they can handle that themselves) but to praise them in a guide to annelids that manages to be reverent in its irreverence. Painting on brown paper bags, McCloskey offers a crash course on worm physiology, habits, and environmental impact, focusing on garden-variety earthworms. "When worms dig, twisting and turning, they make the earth... earthier," he writes in a four-panel sequence as a pink worm dips and turns on its way underground. A group of children asks questions on behalf of readers ("Mr Worm? Why do you come out after the rain?"), and the presence of a bluebird--is it hungry or just friendly?--offers a fun hint of tension. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)

Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.