See It Grow

Coconuts are fun to look at in the store and even better to eat, and this book take a peek at exactly how they grow.

Coconuts aren’t a fruit kids necessarily see every day, nor do they look anything like most fruits. After a quick description of the coconut, this book dives into the entire growing process from seed to sprout to tree, and highlights a few interesting tidbits along the way.

My daughter wanted to get her hands on this one. Coconuts are fascinating, and the descriptions in these pages bring the growing process down into a clear way beginner readers (or younger listeners) will understand. The text is simple, very much so, and sticks to only two sentences per a page spread. The vocabulary is basic and direct, making sure the younger readers can learn without becoming frustrated with the words. This covers the basics of the growth of a coconut, following from the seed, the layers inside, what the sprout looks like, the trees and the flowering.

The bright photographs don’t only give a real impression of the coconuts, the environment and the trees, but do a great job in making the sprouting process clear.

There’s an extra page of more advanced Coconut Facts at the end, a glossary, index and even the website address where kids can learn a little more. But by no means is this an advanced book. The layout is thought for the younger age groups and keeps everything at this level. Readers will have a good understanding of coconuts after this book and will want to try one. . .so beware.

This series is ideal for the preschool through second grade curriculum. Large print text accompanies beautiful color photos and bold vocabulary terms are included in the simple sentences. Each title includes small text boxes and graphics that enhance the photos and provide additional information. A basic fact sheet introduces young readers to the research process. This series would be an excellent addition to your collection. Glossary. Index. Websites. Recommended.

A clean design, simple sentences, and large, well-labeled photos provide attractive introductions to familiar plants. Starting with the plant’s most recognizable feature—whether seed, fruit, or flower—each volume answers the question “How did it get that way?” As readers follow the life cycle, they learn how seeds develop into shoots, grow stems and leaves, and flower and produce fruits. Although each book stands alone, the set offers many opportunities for students to compare and contrast different aspects, such as size of seeds, the role of bees in pollination, and uses of various parts of plants for food. Close-up photographs, such as one depicting the tiny flowers in the middle of a sunflower, encourage close observation of the familiar. VERDICT First-purchase considerations for most collections.