The first in a planned series of four Clever Concepts books, Brocket’s debut for children focuses on the sense of touch, but is also a visual feast and a treat for adjective-lovers. “Touch your nose. How does it feel? The way something feels is called texture.” From this simple introductory definition, the author goes on to describe how a host of objects might feel. From mud, bricks and snow to jam, cactus spines, gummy worms and squash, there are sure to be many things within these pages that are familiar to readers, even if they have not experienced them all. Simple sentences describe how each item feels, sometimes comparing it to other featured objects and often encouraging readers to try something, such as biting an apple or rubbing old flower heads between their fingers. Each of the adjectives describing texture is written in a different type color, making it easy for children to pick them out and perhaps think of some more on their own. Brocket’s stunning photographs truly make the concept of texture real to children. The colors, shapes and textures pop off the pages, making it seem as if they just might be touchable. The segue from group read-aloud to touch-fest is easily made. Guard the eggs—this is likely to lead to some independent explorations. (Informational picture book. 3-7)
