I ATE SUNSHINE FOR BREAKFAST

Think you know plants? Guess again.

This fact-filled, dazzlingly colorful compendium will teach budding naturalists plenty they never knew about the world’s leafy wonders. With plants being used in foods and beverages, clothing, paper, pigments, sports equipment, building materials, vehicles, medicines, hygiene products, technology, and more, there’s virtually nothing humans haven’t utilized them for. Divided into four parts—“All About Plants,” “World of Plants,” “From Breakfast Until Bedtime,” and “The Power of Plants”—this U.K. import uses concise, engaging prose to inform readers about all these uses as well as how plants function; how they’ve adapted to and survived in various environments over millennia; and then some. Vital timely topics, including conservation and the environment, are covered. Informative labeled diagrams and “Did You Know?” sidebars provide additional, helpful information. DIY projects feature enjoyable craft and game activities for which adult supervision is sometimes recommended; a cautionary advisory is noted on the copyright page. Occasionally, British spellings and word usages crop up, and scattered proofreading errors may distract some readers. Nods at diversity occur in references to and illustrations of inventor Lewis Latimer, an African American man, and marine biologist and conservationist Rachel Carson, a white woman, as well as in illustrations of international flags and housing. This will work well as a title for browsing and classroom support.

Science enthusiasts especially will want to plant themselves in this one.