School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 3-A practically perfect science picture book. Ward features a different kind of bird's nest on each spread, with a four-line rhyming verse suitable for reading aloud on the left-hand pages, and a few sentences offering more information, at a higher reading level, on the right. Jenkins's colorful cut-paper collages, set against white backgrounds that emphasize their attention to detail, illuminate each of the birds' creations. Readers will find nests ranging from the tree-hole cavities of woodpeckers to the scrape nests of falcons to the astonishing woven nests of weaverbirds, and even some that challenge readers' assumptions about what a nest is, such as the emperor penguin egg's "nest" on top of the father's feet. Equally excellent for classroom or storytime, this harmonious blend of text and illustrations executes a simple concept beautifully, in a manner that allows readers of various ages to approach the book in different ways.-Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Publisher's Weekly Review
Jenkins's (Animals Upside Down) signature paper collages handsomely illustrate this inviting read about bird nest variety. Ward (What Will Hatch?) showcases 14 nest types, from simple scrape nests to intricately woven ones, with rhythmic verses that begin the same way: "Mama built a little nest," although there's some variation on that theme ("Daddy built a little nest"). Realistic vignettes of birds and their nests are set against a white backdrop; spots of vibrant color accent the muted hues of the mostly female nest builders. In one scene, deep ruddy shades adorn a female grebe's majestic profile as she swims near her nest: "Mama built a little nest./ She gathered twigs that float/ and placed them on the water/ to create a cozy boat." Captions alongside the illustrations offer additional information about nesting materials and habits. Families using this as a bedtime book will appreciate the snug ending: "You have a nest-your very own!/ A place to rest your head/ with pillows soft and cozy thoughts-/ your nest is called a bed!" Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Stefanie Von Borstel, Full Circle Literary. (Mar.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
