Before the Seed: How Pollen Moves
by Susannah Buhrman-Deever (Author) Matt Curtius (Illustrator)
Discover the intricate process of pollination in a lyrical narrative from a noted biologist, packed with information-rich asides and paired with spectacular botanical illustrations.
We live in a world of green that grows from seeds, but what happens before there are seeds? In a graceful text grounded by riveting science, biologist Susannah Buhrman-Deever explains how whirling winds, buzzy bees, and bustling birds move pollen from flower to flower, answering each plant’s special invitation. Lush botanical illustrations by artist duo Gina Triplett and Matt Curtius bring each tiny detail of the process to life, and the final pages remind us why it’s important to take action to protect our pollinators.
From bees and bats to beetles and hummingbirds, the text covers creatures from all over the world that aid in flower pollination, as well as the sophisticated mechanisms flowering plants have developed in order to reproduce. Back matter includes more information on flower anatomy, how to support local pollinators in your own backyard, and the dangers that global warming poses to pollinator species.
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Publishers Weekly
Buhrman-Deever delves into the world of pollen in this inquiry-based discussion of what happens "before the seed grows the green." Though the text only indirectly defines pollen, an opening question ("How can pollen move?") offers a touchpoint as pages feature the role that wind, water, and various pollinators perform in helping transport the substance. Meanwhile, ample asterisks scattered throughout provide impressive stats ("77,000 beetle species visit flowers") and further information about varied species' innovative aspects--such as how one vine's dish-shaped leaves attract pollinating bats by reflecting sounds for echolocation. Incorporating scans of ink and acrylic paint, Triplett and Curtius's digital artwork features oversize visuals of flora and fauna alike; while some imagery relies on thick-penned outlines and basic coloring, others have an Audubon-esque amount of detail, resulting in a collage-like mash-up. As further queries prompt examination of how plants ensure their pollen doesn't go to waste, a "moving" scientific portrayal of interdependence emerges. Includes an author's note and bibliography. Ages 7-9. (Mar.)
Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.JNF051040 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Science & Nature | Astronomy
JNF051140 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Science & Nature | Physics
