Exploring Summer Green to Autumn Gold by Mia Posada: Review and Insights

As the seasons shift, the colors of nature change dramatically, and Mia Posada's Summer Green to Autumn Gold captures this vibrant transformation. This enchanting picture book invites readers to explore the lively greens of summer and the warm tones of autumn, making it a perfect read for both children and adults. In this blog post, we will explore the book's essential details, provide a synopsis, share a rating and review, present discussion questions and activities, and offer insights about the talented author and illustrator.

Book Information

• Title: Summer Green to Autumn Gold

• Author and Illustrator: Mia Posada

• Publisher: Millbrook Press

• Publication Date: August 5, 2019

• Age Category: Children's, Ages: 8+

• Genres: Nature, Seasonal Nonfiction

• Format: Picture Book

• Format Read in: E-book - Libby (Library)

• Reading Challenges: Nonfiction, Libby (Library) TBR

  
  

This book is a valuable addition to any child's library, providing a visual feast and an educational experience about the wonders of changing seasons.

Book Synopsis

Yellow and red, orange and brown―fall is full of color!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of autumn with Summer Green to Autumn Gold, a captivating nonfiction picture book by Mia Posada. This beautifully illustrated journey not only showcases the stunning palette of fall but also delves into the fascinating science behind the transformation of leaves. Discover the intricate processes that paint the trees in hues of gold and crimson, as Posada weaves together art and education in a way that delights and informs. With engaging visuals and accessible language, this book invites young readers to explore the seasonal magic that surrounds them. The back matter enriches the experience with additional scientific insights, suggested further reading, and links to hands-on activities, ensuring that curious minds can delve deeper into the wonders of nature. Perfect for classrooms or cozy reading nooks, Summer Green to Autumn Gold is an essential addition to any child's library, sparking a love for science and the beauty of the natural world.

Book Rating and Review

Rating: ★★★½ (Three and a half stars)

This book is a concise yet captivating exploration of the fascinating world of natural science, particularly focusing on the remarkable phenomenon of leaf color change. The illustrations that accompany the text are not only visually stunning but also serve to enhance the reader's understanding of the concepts discussed. The book presents an educational and informative narrative that delves into the intricate processes that govern how leaves transition from vibrant greens to stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow as seasons change. It effectively explains the science behind these transformations, exploring various factors such as temperature fluctuations, sunlight exposure, and the biochemical processes that occur within the leaves themselves.

As the seasons shift, the book articulates how these environmental changes impact the chlorophyll levels in leaves, leading to the vivid colors that we associate with autumn. It discusses the role of carotenoids and anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the yellow and red hues, respectively, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the science that underpins this natural spectacle. The language used, while scientifically accurate and rich in information, may pose a challenge for younger audiences. Therefore, it could be beneficial for parents and older readers to engage with younger ones during reading sessions, turning the experience into a fun and educational group activity.

Additionally, the inclusion of a glossary at the back of the book is a thoughtful touch, offering definitions and explanations of key terms that enhance comprehension. However, it might have been even more effective if the book had included more illustrations depicting the various environmental conditions that lead to these color changes, as well as activities that families could undertake together to explore the topic further. For instance, illustrations showing the impact of sunlight, temperature, and soil conditions on leaf color could provide valuable visual context. Furthermore, including activities such as leaf collection or color comparison charts could encourage hands-on learning and make the science feel more tangible and relatable.

Overall, while the book is a delightful introduction to the science of leaf color change, expanding on its visual elements and providing more interactive content could significantly enhance the reader's experience. This would not only make the book more engaging for children but also serve to deepen their understanding of the natural world around them. As it stands, it is a commendable resource for budding scientists and nature enthusiasts alike, particularly when shared in a family reading setting where discussions can flourish.

Discussion Questions and Activities

Before Reading

• Discussion Questions:

  • What do you think happens to leaves in the fall? Can you describe any colors you associate with autumn?

  • Have you ever noticed changes in nature during different seasons? What are some examples?

  • What do you know about the science of plants and trees? How do you think they adapt to seasonal changes?

• Activities:

  • Go for a nature walk and collect different types of leaves. Discuss their colors and shapes.

  • Create a seasonal chart that includes images or drawings representing each season and what changes occur in nature.

  • Watch a short video about the science of leaves changing color and discuss what you learned.

During Reading

• Discussion Questions:

  • What colors are you seeing in the illustrations? How do they make you feel?

  • What new facts are you learning about leaves and their colors? Which one surprised you the most?

  • Can you relate any of the information in the book to your own experiences with nature?

• Activities:

  • Pause at key illustrations to discuss what is happening in the picture. What do you think the leaves are doing?

  • As you read, create a color chart on a piece of paper, noting the colors mentioned and any corresponding facts.

  • Act out the life cycle of a leaf, from spring to autumn, using props or drawings to illustrate the changes.

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After Reading

• Discussion Questions:

  • What was your favorite part of the book? Why did it stand out to you?

  • How do you think understanding the science behind leaf color changes can help us appreciate nature more?

  • If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?

• Activities:

  • Conduct a leaf experiment by placing leaves in different environments (light, dark, warm, cool) and observe any changes over time.

  • Create a scrapbook or collage of leaves and colors based on what you learned from the book.

  • Write a short story or poem about a leaf's journey through the seasons, incorporating scientific facts you learned.

Insights About the Author and Illustrator

Mia Posada is a talented author and illustrator known for her beautiful narratives and stunning visuals, drawing inspiration from nature and personal experiences. In Summer Green to Autumn Gold, she artfully captures the changing seasons with vibrant colors and intricate details. Beyond this, she has created several children's books that reflect her love for storytelling and nature, earning her various accolades. Based in Golden Valley, Minnesota, Mia has loved art since childhood, influenced by her artistic family. She prefers paper collage and watercolor, combining her passion for art with her interest in nature and biology. Mia has written and illustrated ten books and launched Wake Up Spring Studio in 2020 for colorful children's wall prints. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Fine Art from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has studied in Florence and San Francisco, and has a Master’s in Occupational Therapy. Mia enjoys a busy life with her husband, three kids, and a big dog.

Where to Purchase the Book

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links below.

The book is available in e-book and hardcover.

• Amazon

• Bookshop

• Barnes and Noble

• Abe Books

Final Thoughts

Mia Posada's Summer Green to Autumn Gold is more than just a picture book; it is a celebration of nature's cyclical beauty and an educational journey through the changing seasons. With its engaging narrative, stunning illustrations, and thoughtful exploration of the science behind leaf color change, this book serves as a valuable resource for both children and adults. It encourages readers to appreciate the transitions in nature and in life, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder. By incorporating discussion questions and activities, families and educators can enhance the reading experience, making it interactive and enriching. Overall, this delightful book is a must-have for any child's library, inviting readers to embrace the vibrant colors of summer and the warm hues of autumn while deepening their understanding of the natural world.