Spring Parade (Seasonal Parade)

Spring arrives like a parade in this welcoming picture book paean by Kay and Howard. Emerging from its burrow, a gray bunny first spots hints of green among a snow-filled landscape, and then spies a single purple crocus ("Here comes the first flower"). Making similar observations via a "Here comes" refrain, Kay introduces bears, birds, butterflies, and others, and as the jaunty procession grows in size, the creatures cavort across verdant green hills that increasingly burst with bright pink, orange, and yellow flowers. Rhythmic prose is concise but evocative ("Here come the blooming fruit trees./ Here comes a soft breeze"), while vibrant impressionistic paintings build to busy, joyous scenes--a pageant that reaches its pinnacle beneath the smudgy confetti of cherry tree blossom petals, inviting readers to celebrate. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)