Today is Perfect Picture Book Friday. And I have not one, but TWO picture books to review for you. They are both new picture books by one of my favorite kidlit people, Miranda Paul. And guess what? If you come back tomorrow, Miranda Paul will be in the Will Write for Cookies spotlight.

Many of the contributors for Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Book Friday link up are taking a short summer hiatus…but here is the link to her awesome resource section that includes over 1000 picture book reviews: http://susannahill.blogspot.com/p/perfect-picture-books.html

One Plastic Bag

Written by Miranda Paul

Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon

Publisher: Millbrook Press (2015)

Ages: 4 and up

Themes:

Believe in yourself, one person can make a change that effects many

Synopsis:

From Amazon: “Plastic bags are cheap and easy to use. But what happens when a bag breaks or is no longer needed? In Njau, Gambia, people simply dropped the bags and went on their way. One plastic bag became two. Then ten. Then a hundred.

Isatou Ceesay was that change. She found a way to recycle the bags and transform her community. This inspirational true story shows how one person’s actions really can make a difference in our world.”

Why do I like this book:

The text: simple, flowing, powerful!

The illustrations: absolutely gorgeous!

The message: shout it from the rooftops – one person can make a difference!

My second Perfect Picture Book pick is also by Miranda Paul.

Water is Water

Written by Miranda Paul

Illustrated by Jason Chin

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (2015)

Themes: Water cycle, seasons

Synopsis:

From Amazon: “Drip. Sip. Pour me a cup. Water is water unless…it heats up.
Whirl. Swirl. Watch it curl by. Steam is steam unless…it cools high.

This spare, poetic picture book follows a group of kids as they move through all the different phases of the water cycle. From rain to fog to snow to mist, talented author Miranda Paul and the always remarkable Jason Chin (Redwoods, Coral Reefs, Island, Gravity) combine to create a beautiful and informative journey in this innovative nonfiction picture book that will leave you thirsty for more.”

Why I like this book:

Simple, simple, simple…the perfect beginning science book for young children. The author uses simple text and simple rhyme to introduce the concept of the water cycle, simply! And the illustrations complement the text perfectly, providing visual clues to the help a young child understand.

A Note for Parents and Teachers

If you are looking for a great resource that will give you 100 picture book summaries and easy matching craft and cooking activities, please check out my book: https://viviankirkfield.com/my-book/ – only $20 which includes FREE priority shipping. The PERFECT gift for any parent or teacher of children ages 2-8 (and a lovely expectant mom or dad present)…as well as for daycare providers and grandparents. No batteries required…powered by a child’s imagination and a parent’s participation!  I’m still giving away copies to libraries…Just click on this link to subscribe. http://eepurl.com/8pglH to my email list – every few months, I donate one book to the local library of one new follower.

And please don’t forget to come back tomorrow for Will Write for Cookies. We will have none other than the incredible Miranda Paul in the spotlight!