Seeds

K-Gr 2--Lemniscates's compact picture book is an ode to the undeniable impact of seeds. The text showcases how seeds often travel across many lands before settling into the ground and growing into a plant. Despite their small size, they contain considerable possibilities in terms of quantity and size. Their durability is remarkable, and they can sprout in the most surprising places. They grow only what they are meant to grow ("pumpkin seeds bring pumpkins; kindness seeds bring kindness"). Humans plant all kinds of seeds: seeds of friendship and love or seeds of anger and misunderstanding. The potential in a seed is far greater than a person can see with the naked eye; it requires belief and action to bring it out. They "have whole worlds inside them, just like you." The book contains short, declarative sentences that stress the resilience of seeds and the beauty of their life cycle. The illustrations showcase the narrative theme in a powerful way and provide a sense of movement. VERDICT Lemniscates's story highlights the expansive possibilities contained within both literal and figurative seeds. A good purchase for all libraries.--Heidi Grange, Summit Elementary School, Smithfield, UT

"Seeds carry the power of life./ So they embark on amazing adventures." Mimicking its subject, this narrative goes through its own "breathtaking transformation," from a science-focused discussion of seeds--how they travel, grow, multiply, and find ways to thrive against the odds--into an intriguing philosophical exploration of seeds as a metaphor for human behavior. ("A smile is a powerful seed.// One that can bring joy and friendship.// But there are also seeds that bring anger and misunderstanding.") Crisp, colorful mixed-media illustrations keep pace with the text, showing moments such as a tiny seed germinating into a resplendent orchid and gardening children resolving their differences. Lemniscates's canny tale holds an appealing message: "Seeds can only bring what they carry./ Pumpkin seeds bring pumpkins; kindness seeds bring kindness.// You have lots of seeds, and you get to decide.../ which ones to help grow." Ages 2-5. (Mar.)