Harastova, Helena. Language of Plants, The: Understanding How Plants Communicate. Darya Beklemashiva, Illus. Translated from the Czech by Mark Worthington. Albatros, 04/2023. 32pp. Non-Fiction. Trade $15.95. 978-80-00-06797-1. GRADES 3 – 6. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Originally published in the Czech Republic in 2022, this engaging book describes how plants communicate using their root systems, giving off scents and seeking out sunshine and water. Each spread focuses on a specific aspect of the subject, such as photosynthesis, using a few paragraphs of text, full-color illustrations, sidebars, and diagrams. People shown in the illustrations represent a variety of ethnicities, ages, and genders. Even though the artwork has child appeal, the vocabulary and concepts are relatively complex so this seems most appropriate for tweens rather than younger children.
Penny Peck—San Jose State University iSchool