“With this book I celebrate the creative power that pervades the natural world and my connection to it.” So writes Owens as she introduces twelve poetic tributes to the birds and beasts of latitudes where both snow and heat round out each year. In April, “Sing Praise with peepers all night long / beside the sprouting / cattail pond, / while mallard nests / with watchful eye / and wood frogs sing / their lullaby.” On one side of that page this poem is swathed in a small visual wreath of cattail leaves and peepers. On the other a detailed, full page illustration represents a pond where turtles, frogs eggs, a duck sitting on eggs, and other creatures in nature’s camouflage can be discovered. Children will enjoy finding and then naming the creatures almost hidden in every pair of circles and pictures. Original music on the final page suggests another way for families to use Owens’s lovely book. (Ages 5-8)

Be Blest, Sing Praise,
Rejoice, Give Thanks,
the seasons circle 'round,
and God's good gifts
for all are near,
inplenty to be found.

Each season brings its own special gifts; if you look closely, you will find them. In winter, leaf buds on branches bear the promise of another year. In spring, while mallard nests with watchful eye, wood frogs sing their lullaby. In summer, fireflies dance under the moon with honeysuckle vines in bloom. In fall, when cold winds whisper frost and snow, the wild geese know it's time to go.

Here is an exquisite celebration of the natural world, the cycle of the year, and the creative power that connects all living things.

Be blest, for sun and
moon and stars,
sing praise for
wind and air,
rejoice for water,
fire, and earth,
give thanks for
creatures everywhere.