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What's in Your Pocket?: Collecting Nature's Treasures
Charles Darwin, George Washington Carver, and Jane Goodall were once curious kids with pockets full of treasures!
When you find something strange and wonderful, do you put it in your pocket? Meet nine scientists who, as kids, explored the great outdoors and collected "treasures": seedpods, fossils, worms, and more. Observing, sorting, and classifying their finds taught these kids scientific skills--and sometimes led to groundbreaking discoveries. Author Heather Montgomery has all the science flair of a new Bill Nye. Book includes the Heather's tips for responsible collecting.
When you find something strange and wonderful, do you put it in your pocket? Meet nine scientists who, as kids, explored the great outdoors and collected "treasures": seedpods, fossils, worms, and more. Observing, sorting, and classifying their finds taught these kids scientific skills--and sometimes led to groundbreaking discoveries. Author Heather Montgomery has all the science flair of a new Bill Nye. Book includes the Heather's tips for responsible collecting.
48 pages, Hardcover
Published September 14, 2021
About the author
Heather L. Montgomery
22 books30 followersHeather L. Montgomery writes about science and nature for kids. Her subject matter ranges from snake tongues to spider silk to snail poop. With a B.S. in Biology and a M.S. in Environmental Education, Heather's passion for nonfiction comes out in her writing and presentations. When she is not writing, Heather can be found climbing a tree, hiking to a waterfall or paddling a river. Learn more about her books at www.HeatherLMontgomery.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
September 17, 2021
I find myself wanting to read more children’s books because I love the colorful book covers and the authors make everything so simple. It’s refreshing sometimes just to look at pictures and not many words and just not think for awhile......can you say burnout?
Anyway, I loved the colorful cover of this book and it is such a cute story that will encourage kids to stay curious and explore nature. It gives examples of several scientists and how, as kids, they were outdoor explorers themselves. They would stuff their pockets with all things in nature and their curiosity continued into adulthood and they are now scientists that have well-known discoveries in their field.
The illustrations in the book are beautiful and will keep your child’s attention. What’s in Your Pocket is a great introduction to science for any child ages 4-8 and beyond and will encourage them to continue being curious throughout life.
Anyway, I loved the colorful cover of this book and it is such a cute story that will encourage kids to stay curious and explore nature. It gives examples of several scientists and how, as kids, they were outdoor explorers themselves. They would stuff their pockets with all things in nature and their curiosity continued into adulthood and they are now scientists that have well-known discoveries in their field.
The illustrations in the book are beautiful and will keep your child’s attention. What’s in Your Pocket is a great introduction to science for any child ages 4-8 and beyond and will encourage them to continue being curious throughout life.
March 8, 2022
4.5 STARS "Every famous scientist was once a curious kid." I love the premise of this book! It's a delightful read for the early elementary set featuring brief but engaging introductions to nine scientists: George Washington Carver, Charles William Beebe, Jane Goodall, Charles Darwin, Meg Lowman, Diego Cisneros-Heredia, Mary Anning and Maria Sibylla Merian. We have read whole picture books dedicated to all of these individuals (with the exception of Cisneros-Heredia, but it appears that none are published about him yet -- hope that will change soon!) so the information here was fairly brief by comparison, but I loved the format where we see these famous scientists first as curious children exploring their world--then as adult scientists with the same passion on a larger scale. It's wonderful for young people to see that their interests and efforts as children can be meaningful not only for the present but as a stepping-stone to their life's work. The storytelling and illustrations are vibrant and engaging; even in the short space each figure is given, I feel we get a sense for his/her personality. The back matter includes a bit more biographical information on each figure, and a suggestion for further reading (most of them the picture books we've already read). I do wish that the note about conscientious collecting of natural materials was mentioned at the front of the book, rather than at the back (where it might be overlooked). The very title of the book makes it seem that it's a-okay to go around collecting natural objects but today's children need to understand that they cannot always, either legally or ethically, go around taking anything they find that seems interesting. I appreciate the back-matter clarifies this, but I do think it would have been better if that was featured more prominently somewhere in the story. Other than that, I highly recommend this.
September 10, 2021
What a great book! Presenting a lot of knowledge about scientists like Charles Darwin, Jane Goodall, Maria Sibylla Merian in a childlike fashion, starting with these famous persons as children, collecting things they found in nature and so finding their vocation. It encourages children to stay curious and deal with nature and science. The drawings are lovely, and the additional information make it easy for adults who are reading the books with children. The rules for collecting are presented in a nice way too.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2021
As an outdoor school educator I am always looking for books to inspire outdoor education and this book hit the mark. Who doesn't know a child (or an adult) who always seems to be collecting and compiling treasures from the outdoors? Put them in your pocket and see what happens. This book not only inspired children to continue filling their pockets with treasures, but showed them what those treasures could become based on others who had done the same. I loved the fiction/non-fiction approach to the book and could immediately use it my classroom. Wonderful!
January 3, 2022
Nice read about how some famous scientists started out. My nephew likes to put things in his pocket and examine/learn about them. This book reminded me of him and I can only hope he makes something of it in the future!
May 29, 2021
This is best children’s nonfiction book I have read in quite awhile (and I used to work in a public library)! It is an all-encompassing book that covers nature and biographies. What a perfectly brilliant way to explain how we learn about the every day things that surround us. It will garner the interest of both parents and children who will look at their world a little differently after reading it. Great book for the entire family!
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 3, 2022
Absolutely love this book!
June 1, 2021
A clever narration for children to learn and apply. Being a mom and remembering my own childhood, you always find something to put in your pocket. A rock, a flower, something interesting that you have found. Any treasure. What's in your Pocket starts with famous collection of real people that were children and how their discoveries determined their life ambitions. Such collectors are George Washing Carver and Charles William Beebe to name a few.
A book that encourages learning, discovery, and respect. The author has laid out rules that respect nature, people, and safety.
A special thank you to Charlesbridge and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A book that encourages learning, discovery, and respect. The author has laid out rules that respect nature, people, and safety.
A special thank you to Charlesbridge and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 18, 2021
*I received a free e-arc of this title from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.*
What a fun book! Adorable and engaging illustrations paired with simple yet informative text make this a great non-fiction book to read with younger children. It’s something I can definitely read with both my 6 and 9 year old and keep them both interested. And I’m a sucker for additional info at the end and this book did not disappoint. We have short bios on each person mentioned throughout the story, suggested next reads and bibliographies, steps on how to collect, and notes from the author and illustrator. I learned a few new pieces of info from this book and I bet you will too! Recommended to anyone interested in learning something new, no matter your age! 😊
What a fun book! Adorable and engaging illustrations paired with simple yet informative text make this a great non-fiction book to read with younger children. It’s something I can definitely read with both my 6 and 9 year old and keep them both interested. And I’m a sucker for additional info at the end and this book did not disappoint. We have short bios on each person mentioned throughout the story, suggested next reads and bibliographies, steps on how to collect, and notes from the author and illustrator. I learned a few new pieces of info from this book and I bet you will too! Recommended to anyone interested in learning something new, no matter your age! 😊
September 22, 2021
Heather Montgomery’s What’s in Your Pocket brilliantly combines the concept of responsibly collecting specimens from nature with well-researched stories of nine young collectors who later became scientists and researchers of note. The nine range in time from Maria Sibylla Merian, who discovered caterpillars turn into butterflies in the 1600’s to Bonnie Lei, a contemporary scientist who discovered a new type of sea slug. Who knew that Jane Goodall put worms under her pillow as a child? Maribel Lechuga’s colorful illustrations will draw in curious young readers as well. Who knows what they will go on to do!
May 25, 2021
Absolutely love this concept — and the words and art are executed beautifully. I can’t wait to share it with my kiddos! And as a parent of kiddos who always want to collect little treasures, I appreciate the author’s rules for collecting at the end. So thankful to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this title, and looking forward to holding the real thing in my hands.
September 19, 2021
This will be a STAPLE in my elementary science classroom!
October 29, 2021
Love how factual this was and that we got a peak into the childhood of these great scientists
August 16, 2021
*free ARC review*
What an adorable children’s book on science. I could see this being used in schools, as it’s such a sweet way to encourage kids to explore and collect things they find outside. It includes a range of people that even I hadn’t heard of before, so it’s interesting for both children and their parents. I really appreciated the additional information at the back that gives room for further discussion and research.
The illustrations are colourful and absolutely lovely, the illustrators note at the end was such a sweet touch as well.
What an adorable children’s book on science. I could see this being used in schools, as it’s such a sweet way to encourage kids to explore and collect things they find outside. It includes a range of people that even I hadn’t heard of before, so it’s interesting for both children and their parents. I really appreciated the additional information at the back that gives room for further discussion and research.
The illustrations are colourful and absolutely lovely, the illustrators note at the end was such a sweet touch as well.
October 1, 2023
2024 Beehive Book nominee. Great informational picture book about science and scientists. I love the illustrations.
January 17, 2024
LOVE. A good introduction to some famous scientists, creating nature collections (yay for the notes at the back about guidelines on this), and the wonder of the outdoors.
September 12, 2021
This is a great book! Telling the stories of several scientists and how they were curious kids with an easy approach with a magnificient message
"Every discovery started with just one thing. One little thing that could fit in a pocket."
And the illustrations are so beautiful.
I believe it is suitable for kids eight years old and above.
I loved it.
PS. I received this arc via NetGalley in exchange of a review.
And the illustrations are so beautiful.
I believe it is suitable for kids eight years old and above.
I loved it.
PS. I received this arc via NetGalley in exchange of a review.
August 20, 2022
Interesting anecdotes from childhood introduces famous scientists and encourages curiosity in children to make their own discoveries. More information of scientists provided in the back. Like the diversity of scientists included.
Maybe a 4.5. As a parent I was relieved to see "My rules for collecting." at the end and would encourage parents to share with young children before setting them free.
Maybe a 4.5. As a parent I was relieved to see "My rules for collecting." at the end and would encourage parents to share with young children before setting them free.
May 11, 2021
A pleasant and encouraging book, showing how some famous scientists (and people working today I had never heard of) started out as curious children, stuffing their pockets (and mouths – not recommended!) with goodies and taking them home to analyse and be all scientific over. It's a very attractive look at some episodes of science history, such as Mary Anning finding her first fossils, Darwin gaining his curiosity about the natural world, and so on – but it's not limiting itself to the science history of the past. Instead it's providing a very good lesson in how to create the science history of the future.
May 16, 2021
This is such a fun way to teach kids about important scientists and their work! Young scientists can often get the message that all of their curiosity, exploration, and experimentation makes them weird. By telling readers how a diverse group of scientists followed their questions as children, Montgomery communicates respect for wondering, even if peers think it's weird.
I will definitely be picking up a copy of this to keep in our classroom and will gift it to budding scientists, as well!
I will definitely be picking up a copy of this to keep in our classroom and will gift it to budding scientists, as well!
May 11, 2021
Beautiful illustrations and clever prose make this children's book a winner! My children enjoyed learning about various scientists, from a wide range of eras and ethnicities, and acquired a new excuse for all of the "nature finds" they collect on our walks. This is a high quality children's book that easily earns its spot in a library or children's collection!!
Want to read
May 8, 2021Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss.
June 13, 2021
This is a book celebrates the wonders of nature, while describing the childhood interests of 9 budding scientists as early collectors of small natural objects (and comparing them). These small objects were often clues that led to wonderful discoveries.
The illustrations are colorful, creative, and wonderful. Well researched and on-topic. All of the scientists included here made wonderful contributions to science and our understanding of the world around us.
I feel torn about this book. On one hand, I love the illustrations! On the other, I’m concerned about some things implied by what is written, what is not in the story portion, and what is not included at all, that should be.
1. You can tell a child will be a scientist if they collect things. This is strongly implied because it is the basis of the theme. I love science, but taking bits of things into the house was frowned on, and it was very likely it would be thrown away.
2. The objects kids collect. Caution should be taught at an early age, as well as respect. Even in the “Rules for Collecting” near the back of the book, there is no mention that, for instance, digging (for fossils or pottery, etc.) is illegal on State, Federal, (including Parks and Forests) Public, and Private land unless express permission is given. [See the Federal Code for Preservation of natural, cultural and archeological resources.] That means every place your family doesn’t own. Also, in addition to the parts of some birds being restricted to collect (mentioned), other animals as well as rare and endangered plants are protected in some areas (and groups are pushing for more protection). Ignorance of the law is no excuse, so fines could be expensive.
3. There were no warnings in this book about poisonous or dangerous plants or animals. Children should not collect things without the close supervision of an adult. The fact that many children survived doing it alone, does not mean it’s worth the risk. Nor does it benefit science more if it’s done alone!
4. There are places where “the beauty of the land is for everyone,” so nothing should be removed. Take photos instead! Taking photos instead isn’t mentioned until the end of the book, but I believe it should have been part of the story, for younger children who are not ready for “More About…” the scientists and the notes from the author.
5. It wasn't until I read "Notes from the Author" in the back of the book, that the theme was tied together as "naturalistic intelligence;" described as a primary level of comfort outdoors, a passion for nature, and enjoying sorting (and comparing?) objects. It would have made more sense—to me—to include this concept in the story. (I’m not sure how sorting applies, unless the author meant sorting into similar groups. Comparing and collecting were not listed as a condition.)
I have read What’s In Your Pocket at least 5 times now. I like the book, but my concerns remain. I realize that no single book can—or should—address everything. However, if a topic is introduced, it should be presented responsibly.
Illustrations 5/5 Stars
Book 2/5 Stars
Equals 3/5 Stars
#WhatsinYourPocket #NetGalley
The illustrations are colorful, creative, and wonderful. Well researched and on-topic. All of the scientists included here made wonderful contributions to science and our understanding of the world around us.
I feel torn about this book. On one hand, I love the illustrations! On the other, I’m concerned about some things implied by what is written, what is not in the story portion, and what is not included at all, that should be.
1. You can tell a child will be a scientist if they collect things. This is strongly implied because it is the basis of the theme. I love science, but taking bits of things into the house was frowned on, and it was very likely it would be thrown away.
2. The objects kids collect. Caution should be taught at an early age, as well as respect. Even in the “Rules for Collecting” near the back of the book, there is no mention that, for instance, digging (for fossils or pottery, etc.) is illegal on State, Federal, (including Parks and Forests) Public, and Private land unless express permission is given. [See the Federal Code for Preservation of natural, cultural and archeological resources.] That means every place your family doesn’t own. Also, in addition to the parts of some birds being restricted to collect (mentioned), other animals as well as rare and endangered plants are protected in some areas (and groups are pushing for more protection). Ignorance of the law is no excuse, so fines could be expensive.
3. There were no warnings in this book about poisonous or dangerous plants or animals. Children should not collect things without the close supervision of an adult. The fact that many children survived doing it alone, does not mean it’s worth the risk. Nor does it benefit science more if it’s done alone!
4. There are places where “the beauty of the land is for everyone,” so nothing should be removed. Take photos instead! Taking photos instead isn’t mentioned until the end of the book, but I believe it should have been part of the story, for younger children who are not ready for “More About…” the scientists and the notes from the author.
5. It wasn't until I read "Notes from the Author" in the back of the book, that the theme was tied together as "naturalistic intelligence;" described as a primary level of comfort outdoors, a passion for nature, and enjoying sorting (and comparing?) objects. It would have made more sense—to me—to include this concept in the story. (I’m not sure how sorting applies, unless the author meant sorting into similar groups. Comparing and collecting were not listed as a condition.)
I have read What’s In Your Pocket at least 5 times now. I like the book, but my concerns remain. I realize that no single book can—or should—address everything. However, if a topic is introduced, it should be presented responsibly.
Illustrations 5/5 Stars
Book 2/5 Stars
Equals 3/5 Stars
#WhatsinYourPocket #NetGalley
February 1, 2023
What's in Your Pocket?: Collecting Nature's Treasures first caught my eye because, let's face it, it reminds me of my kids. Over the past year I've fought them over bringing many things inside, from rocks to acorns to live ladybugs. On one of my first days with the K-1 group, even before I realized that I was in love with this age group, they made a project of planting a tree out of a found acorn in a mud pile, with water from a littered water bottle. I love to visualize them as budding scientists, as What's in Your Pocket? suggests.
What's in Your Pocket? introduces the collecting habits of many naturalists. It explores Charles Darwin and Jane Goodall as well as names that are far less known such as Maria Sybilla Merian, who discovered that caterpillars turn into butterflies, and William Beebe, the first person to see deep-sea fish in their natural environment.
I love the emphasis this book places on women and people of color in times when these people weren't considered the right look for "scientists." Significant names include George Washington Carver, a naturalist born into slavery who discovered many uses for peanuts through his farm work, and Mary Anning, the first paleontologist in the 19th century.
The text is simple enough that the story could work for younger readers, but would also appeal to older kids as they come to learn more about science and scientists and consciously realize that "common" knowledge takes time and generations.
Again, I like this for kids who love exploring to see themselves as scientists.
What's in Your Pocket? introduces the collecting habits of many naturalists. It explores Charles Darwin and Jane Goodall as well as names that are far less known such as Maria Sybilla Merian, who discovered that caterpillars turn into butterflies, and William Beebe, the first person to see deep-sea fish in their natural environment.
I love the emphasis this book places on women and people of color in times when these people weren't considered the right look for "scientists." Significant names include George Washington Carver, a naturalist born into slavery who discovered many uses for peanuts through his farm work, and Mary Anning, the first paleontologist in the 19th century.
The text is simple enough that the story could work for younger readers, but would also appeal to older kids as they come to learn more about science and scientists and consciously realize that "common" knowledge takes time and generations.
Again, I like this for kids who love exploring to see themselves as scientists.
January 12, 2022
NCTE Orbis Pictus Recommended Book 2022
"When you explore the great outdoors
and find something strange and wonderful,
do you put it in your pocket?
Scientists collect specimens so they can
observe the details of natural artifacts.
(Next page)
George found a strange seedpod.
He put it in his pocket.
He forgot all about it, until...
(turn the page)
Pop!
Seeds exploded all over the room.
After that, George had to empty out
his pockets on the porch.
Nobody knew that George would grow up to
the famous scientist George Washing Carver."
(followed by two sentences describing Carver's accomplishments)
BRILLIANT!!!! This pattern continues. Now famous (past and present) scientists putting things in their pockets, in their mouths, under their pillows, etc. followed by a version of "nobody knew that..."
In a few spots, Montgomery breaks up the text by speaking to the reader directly, asking the reader about their exploration of the natural world, their collections, their "amazing discoveries."
ILLUSTRATIONS are just freaking joyful!!! Colorful. Reveal the joy each scientist found as a child exploring nature.
BACK MATTER IS SOLID with more details about each scientist, one "learn more" resource for each and a note from the author AND the illustrator.
YOU COULD USE THIS BOOK IN DIFFERENT WAYS IN K-5.
PAIR THIS TEXT WITH
1) The Leaf Detective: How Margaret Lowman Uncovered Secrets in the Rainforest by Lang and Christy. Lowman is one of the featured scientists in What's in your pocket? The illustrations and writing are kid-friendly engaging.
2) Otis and Will Discover the Deep: The Record-Setting Dive of the Bathysphere Hardcover
by Barb Rosenstock & Katherine Roy. Will Beebe, featured in Montgomery's book, is the "Will." An enchanting read.
"When you explore the great outdoors
and find something strange and wonderful,
do you put it in your pocket?
Scientists collect specimens so they can
observe the details of natural artifacts.
(Next page)
George found a strange seedpod.
He put it in his pocket.
He forgot all about it, until...
(turn the page)
Pop!
Seeds exploded all over the room.
After that, George had to empty out
his pockets on the porch.
Nobody knew that George would grow up to
the famous scientist George Washing Carver."
(followed by two sentences describing Carver's accomplishments)
BRILLIANT!!!! This pattern continues. Now famous (past and present) scientists putting things in their pockets, in their mouths, under their pillows, etc. followed by a version of "nobody knew that..."
In a few spots, Montgomery breaks up the text by speaking to the reader directly, asking the reader about their exploration of the natural world, their collections, their "amazing discoveries."
ILLUSTRATIONS are just freaking joyful!!! Colorful. Reveal the joy each scientist found as a child exploring nature.
BACK MATTER IS SOLID with more details about each scientist, one "learn more" resource for each and a note from the author AND the illustrator.
YOU COULD USE THIS BOOK IN DIFFERENT WAYS IN K-5.
PAIR THIS TEXT WITH
1) The Leaf Detective: How Margaret Lowman Uncovered Secrets in the Rainforest by Lang and Christy. Lowman is one of the featured scientists in What's in your pocket? The illustrations and writing are kid-friendly engaging.
2) Otis and Will Discover the Deep: The Record-Setting Dive of the Bathysphere Hardcover
by Barb Rosenstock & Katherine Roy. Will Beebe, featured in Montgomery's book, is the "Will." An enchanting read.
June 25, 2022
This beautifully illustrated picture book with digital drawings by Maribel Lechuga and text by Heather L. Mongomery is a force for change! All elementary school teachers teach simple science terms to prepare their students for the many years of science specific classes they will have ahead. The ideas of collecting, categorizing, exploring, observing, and respecting nature are central to elementary education. This book is a walk in the shoes of famous scientists and how their work as children may have lead to their success in science. Though there is no glossary included, this casual glimpse into the experiences of famous scientists as children and how it all may have begun by choosing to gather specimens and the wonderful families that must have noticed and accepted this early science exploration is charming. This is as much a guide for parents as it is for young scientists. Readers will read about and feel the wonder, the joy, the excitement of finding things in nature and choosing to study them and learn. I will be purchasing this book for my schools as well as for our director of the district nature center as it begs to be shared!
The scientists chosen are culturally diverse as well as scientifically diverse, yet the commonalities are the focus. All of us that become scientists have to see value in observation, cataloguing, and classifying of found objects and experiences. This is the central skill for scientists in any field and the chosen scientists, some I had learned about and a few I had not, are fascinating to study. Piaget would love this book as his focus was that we learn while we play and this is certainly a celebration of that theory.
The scientists chosen are culturally diverse as well as scientifically diverse, yet the commonalities are the focus. All of us that become scientists have to see value in observation, cataloguing, and classifying of found objects and experiences. This is the central skill for scientists in any field and the chosen scientists, some I had learned about and a few I had not, are fascinating to study. Piaget would love this book as his focus was that we learn while we play and this is certainly a celebration of that theory.
September 24, 2021
WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKET? by Heather L. Montgomery is a nature-focused picture book that spotlights everyday childhood adventures as inspirations for famous scientists in various fields. George Washington Carver, Jane Goodall, Diego Cisneros-Heredia, and Mary Anning are just a few of the children who grow up to be important discoverers and scientists. The book is engaging and simple, and the connection between childhood curiosity and its joyful (and sometimes messy!) side effects will ring true for many readers. With the growing emphasis on outdoor education and connecting to nature, families and educators are sure to find this non-fiction book inspiring and entertaining.
A caveat: Some of the "discoveries" are harmful to animals (one child puts eggs from a nest inside his mouth and ends up swallowing them!). Included in the author's note is a reminder the it is sometimes illegal to collect some items and to only collect plants and organisms that are not alive. She also mentions the alternatives of taking a photograph or drawing a picture instead of removing something from its environment. I would have liked to see more of these “rules for collecting” within the text of the book, but it’s a comprehensive list overall.
Full review: http://vegbooks.org/index.php/2021/09...
A caveat: Some of the "discoveries" are harmful to animals (one child puts eggs from a nest inside his mouth and ends up swallowing them!). Included in the author's note is a reminder the it is sometimes illegal to collect some items and to only collect plants and organisms that are not alive. She also mentions the alternatives of taking a photograph or drawing a picture instead of removing something from its environment. I would have liked to see more of these “rules for collecting” within the text of the book, but it’s a comprehensive list overall.
Full review: http://vegbooks.org/index.php/2021/09...
September 19, 2023
“What’s In Your Pocket?” by Heather L. Montgomery tells several humorous stories from the childhoods of famous scientists, naturalists, discoverers, and the like who grew up collecting and observing things they found in nature. These were children who were not believed in as much as children, but once they grew up they went on to do great things for science and the natural world. This is such an inspiring book because it encourages children to make outdoor discoveries of their own, and like similar books about nature it encourages a deeper appreciation for the variety and wonder that the natural world has to offer. The children in this book find all kinds of things out in nature, such as Jane Goodall’s worms and George Washington Carvers’s popping seed pods, and they take these home to learn more about them. In addition, this book represents the racial diversity as well as gender of these discoverers. As empowering young children by showing them that any body of any race or gender can make great discoveries about the natural world. As seen in “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors” having characters who look like them and share similar experiences does much for young readers’ sense of belonging and connection in the world.
August 29, 2021
This lovely and information-packed picture book works beautifully on all levels. Nonfiction writer and environmental educator Heather Montgomery opens with a direct question to youngsters: when you find treasures in the outdoors, do you put them in your pocket? She proceeds with examples of outstanding scientists whose childhood curiosities and powers of observation led to distinguished contributions in a variety of fields.
Clear narrative rhythm and a positive, inviting tone carry the reader through each bright and cheerful spread. There’s just the right amount of text on each page—the reader’s eye always knows where to go—and excellent back matter. Maribel Lechuga’s gorgeous artwork adds well-researched details and strong visuals for character and scene. This book will inspire children to observe the natural world and love science. Grownups will learn, too!
Thank you to Charlesbridge for the ARC and an opportunity to post an honest review.
Clear narrative rhythm and a positive, inviting tone carry the reader through each bright and cheerful spread. There’s just the right amount of text on each page—the reader’s eye always knows where to go—and excellent back matter. Maribel Lechuga’s gorgeous artwork adds well-researched details and strong visuals for character and scene. This book will inspire children to observe the natural world and love science. Grownups will learn, too!
Thank you to Charlesbridge for the ARC and an opportunity to post an honest review.
August 9, 2021
What’s in Your Pocket is a beautifully-illustrated book that encourages children to explore the natural world around them by providing examples of other scientists who, as children, were curious little outdoor explorers as well. I like how the author used famous scientists as well as present-day scientists who are not as well-known so that children can look into them more if they wish to. While this book is intended for a 4-8 year olds, I think that is a bit of a stretch. My daughter, who is 5, enjoyed the book for three quarters of the way through and some of the vocabulary was a bit over her head, and she is a big nature girl herself! Also the change in font styles throughout is a bit unnecessary and, I believe there are too many for this age group. Beautiful book! Would love to add a hard copy to our nature collection for my kids to enjoy on our back porch!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews