Summer Green to Autumn Gold: Uncovering Leaves' Hidden Colors

In engaging, accessible language, Posada presents the science behind the changing colors of deciduous trees. Beginning with green--"emerald to jade and every shade in between"--she explains how chlorophyll pigmentation uses sunlight to produce energy and obscures other pigments within the leaves. At the end of the summer growing season, "the chlorophyll slowly disappears, and the leaves' green color fades away. Now the hidden yellows and oranges are finally revealed!" Posada (Who Was Here? Discovering Wild Animal Tracks) follows the leaves from summer to spring, explaining why they fall and how they enrich the soil. Bright collage illustrations capture the papery texture of colorful leaves and the layered textures of vibrant autumnal forests. Supplemental materials include a glossary, links to experiments, and concise explanations of leaf types, pigments, and the role of weather and location on leaf coloration. Ages 5-10. (Aug.)