Hocker, Katherine. I Was: The Stories of Animal Skulls. Natasha Donovan, Illus. Candlewick, 05/2024. 40pp. Nonfiction. Trade $18.99. 978-1-5362-2313-2. GRADES Preschool–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
A nature hike with a diverse group of humans serves as a narrative frame for the examination of six skulls and imagining the lives of the animals to whom they belong. The poetic prose, encouraging curiosity and reflection, is accompanied by detailed and warmly rendered digital illustrations. Back matter contains additional information and invites young readers to compare human skulls to those of the animals described throughout. Great for preschool to second grade storytime and suitable for a guessing game activity, this is a versatile book that reinforces a sense of wonder about the natural cycle of life.
Keith Chong—Oakland Public Library