Emma's Sunflower

K-Gr 2--A story about how our world overlaps with the natural one when we pay attention. Emma, a white girl with yellow hair, is watching a family of lovely greenfinches at the bird feeder, which she has recently stuffed with sunflower seeds. Emma is surprised to see a crow scare off the birds she was watching just moments ago, and in the process, seeds are scattered everywhere. In winter, Emma's family celebrates festive holidays and it's implied that the seeds are underground. In fact, the tale jumps from idea to idea--from seeds to lambs to apple blossoms to sunflowers to birthdays--and the illustrations are invested in a literal telling of the story. A fully grown sunflower makes an appearance, along with the return of the greenfinches, in time for Emma's birthday. The illustrator's note explains how the font used is more accessible for dyslexic readers; the book also includes a list of activities for further engagement with the story and illustrations. VERDICT A sweet story to add where this team's first book, Rupert's Snowman, is popular.--Jessica Schriver

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