Book Reviews May 2022

I Love Dirt!

Written by Jennifer Ward Illustrated by Susie Ghahremani

To be honest, I like almost all books that give parents ideas for ways to connect their children to nature! There are several things that make this book stand out. The illustrations are uncluttered and fun! There is one activity for every week of the year. The book is divided by seasons. There are activities for any climate and setting, whether the city, the countryside, or anywhere in between. At the end of most activities, there are three important sections: Help Me Understand; a follow-up activity; and a phrase that suggests what each activity stimulates within the child.

Help Me Understand poses a question and gives an answer. For example, the summer section, there is an activity called “Water-Hole Watching.” The question is: “How do animals survive when they don’t live near water, such as in a dry, hot desert?” You’ll have to get the book to find the answer. :)

Follow-up Activities include things like arranging a backyard camp out, creating a nature- oriented Simon-Says game using animal movements, or giving the birds delicious treats in the winter when food is hard to find.

Some examples of Stimulates are; in spring, “Build that Nest” stimulates observation skills, appreciation, and a sensitivity to living things; in fall, “Take a Walk on the Wild Side” encourages exercise, creativity, and fun.

This book is recommended for 4–8-year-old children (and their parents). Jennifer Ward has written many children’s books, and she has another one for children 8-12 years old, titled Let’s Go Outside! Read more about this author on jenniferwardbooks. com or purchase this book at bookstores or roostbooks.com.

Reviewed by Lorna McGrath