If you have a 3-year-old like I do, you get asked “why” on a nonstop basis. Why do I have to take a bath? Why do dogs bark? Why do the leaves fall? For that last question, let me recommend “Awesome Autumn” by Bruce Goldstone. Fall is a season of transformation, and this image-filled, informative book explains these changes in a simple and age-appropriate manner for kids in preschool though third grade.
Each page has a big bold heading, like “Days Get Colder” or “Leaves Change Color,” that signals what that page will be about. Goldstone presents information to encourage young readers to explore the season with all of their senses, describing what autumn tastes, feels and smells like. The end of the book is my favorite part because it provides instructions for traditional autumn activities–from making leaf rubbings to roasting pumpkin seeds–that will remind you of your own childhood. Turkeys made from handprints, anyone?