Connecting children and nature, Dawn Publications’ mission is to offer a unique line of nature appreciation books for young people to better understand and appreciate all life on Earth. Essentially non-fiction, Dawn publications are told with such an engaging style and beautifully illustrated that many of their books are best described as “creative non-fiction.” The publisher also offers engaging activities for educators and their students.
What’s in the Garden?
by Marianne Berkes (author), Cris Arbo (illustrator)
Since healthy food becomes more interesting when children know where their food comes from, readers explore What’s in the Garden?, a garden bursting with life, including indigenous animals and insects. With playful descriptions of fruits and vegetables, each includes kid-friendly recipes. A “food for thought” section presents interesting facts about each fruit and vegetable, and a “how does your garden grow?” section explains facts about gardening and the parts of plants.
Jo MacDonald Had a Garden
by Mary Quattlebaum (author), Laura J. Bryant (illustrator)
Old MacDonald had a . . . garden? Yes! Sing along with new twist to an old song: E-I-E-I-O! Readers follow young Jo MacDonald as she grows healthy food for people and wild creatures. Find out how butterflies, bumblebees, and birds help a garden to thrive. Youngsters learn about garden ecosystems through suggested indoor activities and active garden stewardship.
Awards Won:
- 2012 Purple Dragon Book Award: 1st Place (Children’s Picture Book – Ages 5-)
- 2012 IBPPG Next Generation Indie Book Award: Finalist (Children’s Picture Book Category)
Jo MacDonald Saw a Pond
by Mary Quattlebaum (author), Laura J. Bryant (illustrator)
While signing to the Old MacDonald song, Jo MacDonald introduces youngsters to the concept of ecosystems by taking readers on a trip to a farm pond. Complete with rhythm, repetition, wordplay, and onomatopoeia, you’ll find fish, frogs, ducks illustrated with lively watercolors. A resource section features both outdoor and indoor activities and games, sure to encourage young naturalists at home and school.
Awards Won:
- 2012 Purple Dragon Book Award: 1st Place (Children’s Picture Book: Ages 5-)
- 2011 NAPPA Gold Award (Books Category) from National Assoc. of Parenting Publications of America
- 2011 Mom’s Choice Gold Award (Children’s Picture Book Category)
Check out the Jo MacDonald Saw a Pond book trailer with music: Jo MacDonald Saw a Pond
Dawn Publications
12402 Bitney Springs Rd.
Nevada City, CA 95959
Website: http://www.dawnpub.com/
Phone: 530-274-7775
Fax: 530-274-7778