Wake, Sleepy One: California Poppies and the Super Bloom

PreS-Gr 2--A poppy seed becomes part of the super bloom in California. In short sentences, Kerr explains how a poppy grows and survives in the desert. When all the poppies bloom at once, it is known as a super bloom. It is a simple premise but packed with interesting information conveyed through whimsical writing. The descriptions almost anthropomorphize the flower. After statements such as "Poppy is awake" or "Poppy shivers," the narrator tenderly instructs the flower to "Wait, sleepy one" or "Fold, sleepy one." The use of recurring onomatopoeia should also engage young listeners or early readers. Chunks of text in smaller font at the bottom of the pages add historical or scientific background without breaking the flow of the story. The illustrations highlight the desert creatures, such as rattlesnakes, mice, and scorpions, who rejoice in the super bloom. Kids might be perplexed by the scale (how big is that ant facing the rattlesnake?), but will enjoy the full detailed spreads. There is a large amount of back matter, including a glossary, information about super blooms and how to protect them, a list of locations, and resources. VERDICT For young nature enthusiasts or browsers, this is ideal narrative nonfiction.--Elissa Cooper

One of Children Book Council's Hot off the Press picks for April 2022!

"Gorgeous illustrations, that fill the page, show the desert habitat where the California Poppy blooms in the spring—if the conditions are right. […] An ode to a beautiful plant. This book could be wonderfully shared in a Botany class or used in a science unit for younger children. It seems like a must-have for schools and libraries in California. 5 Stars."  —Youth Services Book Review

"A lyrical, elegant, and eloquent tribute to one of California's most treasured wildflowers, Wake, Sleepy One: California Poppies and the Super Bloom is a treasured picture book story by author Lisa Kerr and artist/illustrator Lisa Powell Braun that beautifully and elegantly captures the quiet strength of the poppy in all its breathtaking and deftly illustrated wonder."  —Midwest Book Review

"Lisa Powell Braun's charming artwork supports Kerr's spare text and offers a variety of reading options for this book. . . Two full spreads of stellar backmatter add to its usability in the classroom, and make this a perfect resource for learning about desert landscapes!"  —Goodreads with Ronna

"The use of onomatopoeia and personification liven up the description of the flower’s life. . . At the back of the book, readers will find a glossary, labeled diagram of the flower parts, additional information related to the poppy, locations to find poppies, and some resources."  —Children's Literature Comprehensive Database