Leaves to My Knees

Yard work becomes an opportunity for a child to develop measuring skills in this seasonal title with a math spin. While assisting Daddy and younger brother Jayden, narrator Camille, clad in a “big jacket” and handling a “big rake,” declares: “I’ll rake leaves all the way up to my knees!” Art washed in pale fall hues shows the trio, who present as Black, working in a fenced yard carpeted with leaves. Camille’s pile starts at the ankles (bigger than Jayden’s small pile) and then grows to boot height (still smaller than Daddy’s pile), and though a whooshing wind results in temporary setback, Camille eventually hits the mark, celebrating with a “big” jump and a “big squeeze” from Daddy. Serviceable narration models measurement-oriented comparing and contrasting skills, which are further articulated in a concluding note. Camille and family show how easy it is to weave STEM learning into the everyday. Ages 5–6. (Oct.)