Compost Stew Children's Book Review - A Fun A to Z Guide to Teaching Kids How to Make Compost
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Compost Stew - A must read for the 3-6 year old
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"Apple cores
Bananas, bruised
Coffee grounds with filters, used"
"Just add to the pot
and let it all rot
into Compost Stew !".......
So begins the perfect recipe for making a great batch of compost, according to the children's book, Compost Stew - An A to Z Recipe for the Earth .
Being a mother of two toddlers who absolutely adore books, I have read my share of children's stories and can honestly say that it is pretty rare when a children's book catches my attention the way this one has.
Written by Mary McKenna Siddals , and illustrated by Ashley Wolff, this charmingly unique children's book is the perfect compost making how-to-guide for both children and adults alike.
However, Compost Stew - An A to Z Recipe for the Earth , is much more than just a compost making instruction manual for young compost making beginners. Incorporating a unique and simple way to address a vital environmental issue is this books main appeal.
The author, Mary McKenna Siddals, uses catchy rhyme and flowing rhythm to convey an important message of reusing everyday items to help enrich the soil; provide nontoxic, organic, fertilizer for gardens; as well as help materials break down naturally without contributing to the already overflowing landfills.
Even the colorful illustrations are in keeping with the timely message that engenders the need to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Every page of this book is filled with vibrant collage illustrations that make use of found and recycled materials - which tells a story on their own as well.
In addition to what is needed to make the perfect batch of compost, a short note is written in the back of the book that provides a list of items that should never be added to any "compost stew" (i.e. meat, dairy, and non biodegradable items such as packing foam and metal).
Perfect for children ages 3-6, this unique 32 page book is a great way to introduce both young and older audiences to the world of composting, as well as raise awareness of important environmental issues among small children.
Hands down, Compost Stew - An A to Z Recipe for the Earth , has become one of mine and my little ones favorite children's book thus far.
This eco-conscious children's book will make a great addition to any children's library.
* A little bit about the author : Mary McKenna Siddals is a former teacher who resides in British Columbia, Canada . In addition to making her own batch of Compost Stew, she has still found the time to compose dozens of children's stories, activities, articles, and poems in a variety of magazines, as well as write several picture books for very young, up and coming readers.
To find an extensive list of other great children's books that encourage environmental awareness, check out fellow hubber, wannabewestern's list of children's picture books in celebration of arbor and earth day.
copyright © 2010
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CommentsLoading...
This looks like a good one, thanks for sharing this.
How awesome! Not only a great message, but it seems like a cool book. It's one I've not hear of. Thanks for sharing!
What an excellent, well-written book review. I'll have to get this one to read to my own children, now almost 2 and almost 4. We have a little garden and it is always a delight to find a book that has a lasting appeal, like this one. I'll be reading your other book reviews soon. Regards!
Another one for the grands! Thanks!
You have really discovered a gem here. Well done. Very informative and inspiring for young children.
I'm going to look for this book at the library! I also have a friend who's wants to start a compost so I'll pass this along.
I wasn't familiar with this book -we do compost and we do have our children involved in our garden and planting and choosing this certainly adds more and what fun!
This just makes so much sense. Children can learn so much and never forget it when it comes in handy - as adults. What great knowledge is garnered here! Living healthy and green can start so early.
I always give books as gifts and this will make a great one.
Rated up - and thanks!
Hi Veronica, I remembered your review of this book and am linking to it from an article I'm writing. Just wanted to let you know. It's not published yet but on the way. Have a great day!


















creativeone59 Level 4 Commenter 23 months ago
Thank you Veronica, for this wonderful children hub on compost, sound like a great compost for gardening. Thank you for sharing. Godspeed. creativeone59