A few weeks ago at our local library, I found a handy-dandy folded-up pamphlet called "Get Ready for Kindergarten!" with, on the inside, a list of "64 picture books for kindergarten." It's the cutest thing. It's purple, it has Kevin Henke's Lilly on the cover; what's not to love? Also, if you have even a teeny bit of OCD, you will be drawn to the idea of checking off each book in the little box provided after you've read it to your five-year-old. Also, to the idea that if anyone asks, "Have you read any of these books?" you'll be able to glance over nonchalantly and say, "Oh sure, all of them." I guess I'm competitive like that. (Though not, apparently, when it comes to my appearance--i.e. checking the mirror to make sure I've washed the markers and stamps off. Thanks, three-year-old daughter.)
Anyway, the San Francisco Public Library has been kept busy lately sending all the books from the list to my local branch for me to pick up. They're not all fabulous; some are clearly on there because they have to do with school or family or educational concepts, not because they're the best books ever. But I've also made some great discoveries. This week I decided to showcase this gorgeous picture book that displays dew-dropped, fresh-from-the-garden photos of produce to illustrate colors. It's a duh-simple idea, but elegantly executed here. My son may start first grade next week, but for most folks, it's still high summer. This book will get your inner gardener all fired up, all while your preschooler masters the colors.
Reference: Growing Colors. By Bruce McMillan. HarperCollins, 1988 (hardback).
