How to Speak Flower: A Kid's Guide to Buds, Blooms, and Blossoms

Gr 4-6--Williams walks readers through flower anatomy, pollination, and the history of floriography, or the art of using flowers to communicate. Though this historical section lacks citation from any primary sources, it includes examples from around the globe. Readers then learn how they can use flowers to share their feelings, including love, friendship, and gratitude. Flowers also have healing qualities; chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and marigold has antibacterial properties. Not all blooms are positive though--there are a few with negative meanings, like orange lilies and butterfly weeds, and some that are deadly. For the toxic blossoms, Williams includes a critical warning and phone number for the Poison Control Center. But the gloom ends there, as Williams includes cute quizzes (like "What's Your Soul Flower?"), instructions for cultivating a cutting garden, and a DIY Flowers chapter with crafts like homemade potpourri and a flower crown. When this finds its true readers, it will shape them completely. VERDICT A flowery purchase that's bright and beautiful.--Abby Bussen