cover image Is It Warm Enough for Ice Cream?

Is It Warm Enough for Ice Cream?

Violet Peto, illus. by Victoria Palastanga. DK, $9.99 (18p) ISBN 978-1-4654-6786-7

Using what’s clearly a trick question as a hook (is there ever a wrong time for ice cream?), this science-minded board book explores characteristics of the seasons, touching on weather, animal activity, and things one could do instead of reaching for the mint chocolate chip. Each season gets two spreads. Seasonal occurrences are described in the first (“In fall... mist and clouds blow over the sun/ birds eat berries”), and children ask the title’s question in the second. The response is always no (except in summer), and alternate ideas are suggested (“It’s windy enough to fly a kite and... watch a pinwheel spin/ sail a boat”). Playful graphics mix photographs and chipper digital images, creating a cheerful atmosphere for each season. Ages 2–5. (Feb.)