Cole, Henry. On Meadowview Street. Illustrated by Cole, Henry. Greenwillow Books, 2007. ISBN 9780060564827. $17.89. 32p.
Reviewer: Sandra L. Tidwell
Reading Level: Preschool, Primary
Rating: Outstanding
Genre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction;
Subject: Nature--Juvenile fiction; Lawns--Juvenile fiction; Meadows--Juvenile fiction; Suburban life--Juvenile Fiction; Books--Reviews;
Caroline has just moved to Meadowview Street, but where is the meadow? Just as she is about to search for the meadow, she sees a wildflower in the middle of her front yard. Carefully she encloses the wildflower in a little fence of sticks and string, protecting it from being mowed down by her father. From this simple beginning and several wildflowers, a tree, a bird house, and a pond later, Caroline creates a meadow on Meadowview Street. Little by little the neighbors catch on, and the community has a real Meadowview Street.
The book’s environmental message is a worthy one, particularly with pleasantly-named housing developments, devoid of bushes and trees, changing the landscape of many communities. Cole's text is engaging, with colorful, realistic, yet playful, illustrations that remind the reader that with careful planning every yard can become a beautiful green space. This book will appeal to nature-lovers, and anyone who is concerned about over-urbanization.
