A Seed Is Sleepy

Diana Jutts Aston and Sylvia Long - who also collaborated on An Egg Is Quiet - offer a pean to the seed in this lovely picture-book, which explores some of the many fascinating qualities of these plants-to-be. In the beginning, a seed is sleepy (and secretive), lying untouched and still, but soon it is fruitful and adventurous - spreading out and growing. Each two-page spread pairs a general (and rather poetic) statement about seeds, with some specific scientific information. "A Seed Is Naked," for instance, is followed by a brief two-sentence discussion of gymnosperms - seeds that are not "clothed" in fruit.

I really liked this dual format, and think it will draw young readers in, sparking their interest and then building upon it. The ink and watercolor artwork is simply superb, with beautiful colors, appealing page layout, and botanical portraits that capture the delicate charm of dandelion seeds and the towering strength of the redwoods. A Seed Is Sleepy presents its information in an innovative way, making it one of a number of recent picture-book (Jason Chin's Redwoods also springs to mind, in this regard) I would recommend, to get reluctant or indifferent young students interested in botany. Highly recommended! ( )

A Seed Is Sleepy is a beautifully illustrated book...some of the illustrations look like they belong in a calendar or hallmark card. Though a picture book, the size of the text is quite small and because some of the text is written in cursive, it seems like a great book to read with or to a child to share the interest and passion for seeds, flowers and gardening
Perfect for read-aloud ( )

The slightly simplified technical drawing in this book are lovely, and give it a comforting heirloom feeling. While the drawing are labeled and precise, the writing tries to engage many dimensions of the reader's attention. A poetical tone is achieved in the larger, script text. Smaller text with block letters are used to express information. This information is still mostly presented conversationally and in an engaging format. However, the scientific facts, while pertinent, disrupt the flow of the book. The calming images seem at odds with the meandering writing and random placement of text, making ones eyes dart around to find information. ( )

Summary: This book is about how a seed is sleepy. First, the seed lies inside its flower, on its cone, or covered with soil. It is slow to reveal itself; the seed waits for warmer temperatures. The seed is fruitful, and most plants are flowering plants. A seed is also naked, but these seeds are called gymnosperms. Seeds explore to find the right place to put down roots. A seed is thirsty and hungry, and it needs the rain and minerals in the soil. A seed knows to push through the soil to get to the sunlight. Finally a seed is sleepy, and then awake.
Personal Reaction: I found this book to very informative introduction to seeds. I also enjoyed the poetic language and the descriptive pictures. The book introduces children to variety of seed and plant facts, and the text will inspire questions and observations.
Classroom Extensions: 1. In the classroom, this book can be to explain the life cycle of a seed. 2. This book can be used in a classroom reading circle.

The first thing that strikes you when you pick up this book is its simplicity and beauty. Though aimed at younger children, this book has many different species of plants illustrated along with very specific scientific information about seeds, and almost lyric cursive script. Younger children will enjoy this introduction into seeds. It tells a narrative of the seed's life cycle with flowing language.

This book can be used in the classroom with examples of different types of seeds, and in conjunction with students planting their own seeds. The sheer volume of information and different seed types is sure to fascinate interested young learners. ( )