SPARROWS

In attempting to do too much, this offering does too little for many readers. A main narrative provides a simple story line, while associated factlets (printed in a smaller font) range over the page. The tale begins with a nest of five eggs. The parents search for just the right food to feed their babies and work to help keep the nest clean and so on, until in the end, the reader comes full circle, with one chick having become a mother herself. While readers will certainly learn many things about sparrows, the disconnected facts and jumpy pace distract from the narrative and break the emotional connection with the reader. The authors’ sparrow expertise is apparent throughout, especially in the backmatter, which highlights how sparrows came to live in America. But without a doubt, Goede’s stunning artwork is the highlight, with realistic details, colors and textures that make the images pop off the pages. Avid birders may gobble this one up, but the lack of cohesion will leave most in the cold. (Informational picture book. 4-8)