Raindrops Roll

K-Gr 2--This first-rate book highlights the beauty and wonder of rain--a seemingly commonplace occurrence--and shows its effects upon the rest of the natural world. In general but lyrical terms, the work explains what raindrops do ("Raindrops settle. They slip. They dot."). The text is accompanied by scenes from a forest rainforest (drops clinging to flowers or spider webs, insects and birds dealing with the downpour). Sayre has created a poetic atmosphere, using rhyming words ("Raindrop spangles/mark angles."), and her vibrant, close-up photographs, which effectively complement the narrative and will engage children and adults alike. The last two spread, titled "A Splash of Science," offer information on the three forms of water (ice, liquid water, and water vapor) and their characteristics. This attractive work is also ideal for read-alouds and an easy entry for students delving into nonfiction reading, especially in poetry or science units. This excellent title will transform how readers think about rain.--Tracey Wong, P.S. 54/Fordham Bedford Academy, Bronx, NY

"Raindrop spangles/ mark angles./ They cling to curves/ and cover cocoons." In playful rhymes and breathtaking nature photography, Sayre offers a dramatic examination of a rain shower as droplets soak birds, roll down pumpkins, dot the backs of insects, and muddy the forest floor. Sayre's close-up photographs are startling in their intimacy--a bead of water seems to defy gravity as it pools precariously on a green leaf, while dozens of tiny drops illuminate a spider's feather-light web. These images alone are enough to make the book a treasure; an informative closing section exploring water's forms, behavior, and characteristics is icing on the cake. Ages 4-8. (Jan.)