Shah, Ruchi. Carbon’s Magic Is Everywhere : Meet Nature’s Most Essential Element. Joanna Stopyra, Illus. Carbon Tales, 06/2025. [28]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 979-8218661441. GRADES Preschool–1. ADDITIONAL.
Using a text in rhyming couplets, the positive aspects of carbon are celebrated, such as “Carbon feeds the growing tree, hiding in the leaves and bark you see.” Subtitled “Meet Nature’s Most Essential Element,” this can be used to introduce the subject but the text really doesn’t define what carbon is, so adult readers will need to explain what an element is. The soft pastel illustrations show a small child with dark hair and tan skin interacting with aspects of nature including the ocean and several animals. Minimal back matter includes a list of preschool activities to show how carbon is found throughout the environment. Ruth Spiro’s Baby Loves Science board books are a first choice for clearer definitions of science concepts, but this will serve as a suitable supplementary resource for introducing the subject of carbon to young children. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool