DRAWN FROM NATURE

A British-based Etsy artist known for intricate compositions with pressed flowers and leaves undertakes an exploration of seasons; her medium lends authenticity to the narrative.

Spring is the first of four chapters; the topics described and depicted in double-page spreads include bird song and mating, nest building, and the life cycles of frogs and butterflies. Reading the two to three paragraphs per page is like hiking with a relative who is both knowledgeable and passionate about the outdoors. Ahpornsiri incorporates less-frequently-discussed behaviors into her discussions, such as deer rutting and a mother duck’s transfer of waterproof oils to her babies to help them float. The captions are small, light, and feathery, making them a bit hard to read, but that is a minor flaw. The companionship of an adult reader for children up through age 8 would bridge the gap between the more complex (although clearly explained) concepts such as photosynthesis, prehensile tails, and deciduous trees and the captivating art that will attract a wide age range. Each animal is built into a delicate collage from precisely cut plant parts; the absence of visible outlines adds to the awe. The artist has an exquisite sense of page design, creating pleasing curves and patterns while employing plants and a palette particular to each season.

A book to savor and share throughout the year, this is sure to inspire budding naturalists and crafters.