Before the Seed: How Pollen Moves

Before the Seed gives a good first in-depth explanation of how insects and animals help pollinate plants for young readers. The book can be read by younger readers who just focus on the general words at the top of the page and older readers or a grown-up can read the added explanations. I found the added information interesting but it was distracting to bounce between the general flow of the book to the in-depth explanations. I like that the backmatter gave a diagram and definitions of the parts of plants as well as the plight of pollinators due to human activities. I also liked the list of ways children can help to make life better for pollinators. This book would be would go well with a study of flowers, insects, and ecosystems.

Before the Seed: How Pollen Moves is written by a biologist who specializes in animal behavior and ecology. Told in a lyrical manner than lends itself to read-alouds and is easy for kids to comprehend. There is a ton of information location in the sidebars and of course, the backmatter.
Also located in the backmatter is a list of resources should one wish to pursue this subject further, as well as information on the trouble pollinators are in.

The well-written text introduce readers to some of the challenges faced by pollinators and why certain creatures are drawn to certain plants, often when it might be to their detriment.

Before the Seed features jaw-dropping digital artwork, using scans of ink and acrylic paint, enabling readers to see the whole picture of what happens before there's even a seed. There are several stunning double-page spreads, close-ups of the pollination process, and beautiful blossoms that would not exist without the pollination process.

A must have for schools, libraries and a personal collection.