Spring is finally here! Can you feel it?

Everything Spring by Jill Esbaum (National Geographic Kids, 2010), is the perfect little gem to bid the new season a cheery hello! Welcome, warmer days, we’re so happy you’re finally here!

This is Jill’s third title in the Picture the Seasons Series, which consists of 16-page paperback originals full of gorgeous color photographs just right for kids ages 4 to 8.

Everything Spring captures the excitement and wonder of the natural world awakening after a long winter’s nap. “Spring tiptoes in, stirring up earthy smells, coaxing color from the winter-brown woods.” We see green stalks poking up through snow-covered ground and leaves unfurling on the trees. Dandelions are scattered over a hillside, and a tadpole feels “froggier” in a clear, sparkling stream.

Best of all are the adorable baby animals — velvety bunnies with their noses “twitch-twitch-twitching,” fuzzy ducklings’ webby feet “piddle-paddling,” lambs with wobbly legs, and piglets rooting for breakfast. “Squeet!”

I love Jill’s simple, evocative language, which allows us to feel the warmth and cuddliness, drink in the color of flowers and field, and hear every chirp and peep of brand new life. Wonderful for classroom sharing, Everything Spring will make a nice addition to home or school libraries. With its very affordable price point, it makes sense to get the other titles in the series as well. Check out Apples for Everyone and Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie. And there’s another book coming out in October: Winter Wonderland! Yes, you’ll want them all ☺.

For more of a peek inside the book, click here. Have a wonderful Spring! Get outside and celebrate!

Today’s Nonfiction Monday Roundup is at Books Together.

Did you think I’d forget the cupcakes? Enjoy!

Orange Blossom Cupcakes by Sugarbloom Bev;o).

Copyright © 2010 Jama Rattigan of jama rattigan’s alphabet soup. All rights reserved.