Vegetables

Children's Literature

In this title, part of the "Plants" series for children, Loves introduces early readers to the world of the vegetable. Part elementary science text, part picture book, each page contains vivid photographs in bright primary colors of plants and the ways people in various cultures grow and harvest them. Loves describes the physiology of vegetables, from the planting stage to harvest, with an overly complex explanation of the pollination process which might confound some younger readers. Unfamiliar words are presented in bold type and included in a glossary at the end of the book. A short index is also included, which is a fine introduction to the way textbooks are organized. An easy craft project is featured, allowing the children to practice what they have learned. While explanations of plant biology might be a bit advanced for some young readers, the large print and short chapters make this selection a good one for students interested in learning where some of their food choices originate. 2005, Chelsea House, Ages 7 to 9.
—Jane Jessell