Book Review of As Maya Grows in the Natural World
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The Children’s Book Review
As Maya Grows in the Natural World
Written by Patricia Ambinder
Illustrated by Kim Soderberg
Ages: 2-6 | 34 Pages
Publisher: Patricia Ambinder (2023) | ISBN-13: 9798988238553
What to Expect: Nature, environment, adventure, and discovery.
We all know it’s important to respect and care for our environment, but it can sometimes feel like nature is a remote and far-away concept. As Maya Grows in the Natural World shows readers that nature is all around them, all the time, ready to be learned from.
There is so much to discover by being out and about in nature, which doesn’t just mean wild spaces. Rock doves sing in a city park, and rainbows and flying geese can bring beauty to a play park. In the backyard, you can greet the neighborhood cats, paint designs on brightly colored pumpkins, or collect the treasures you find around you and display them for others to enjoy. Whether at the beach, in a park, or even just gazing out of your window at home, there is endless magic and joy to be found if you take the time to look.
Simple text is paired with beautifully detailed and realistic artwork depicting real birds, plants, and animals, emphasizing the joy the child characters experience as they interact with the natural world. Available but not intrusive, quotations on each page prompt deeper reflection about the relationship between people and the environment.
As Maya Grows in the Natural World is a lovely introduction to sustainability and the environment for young readers.
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About the Author
A writer of poetry and prose, Patricia Ambinder is a passionate social justice advocate with an avid curiosity to understand the complexities of the human experience. She appreciates the concise eloquence of quotations to nurture imagination and challenge thinking.
For decades, Patricia held leadership positions on boards and councils, offering guidance and enhancing communications to strengthen community engagement on issues such as early childhood education, food security and peace and justice. She is an Honorary Life Member of the Board of Directors of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
Patricia and her husband cherish time with their four children and extended family. It was her adored granddaughter Maya’s fascination with leaves and delight in morning nature walks that inspired “As Maya Grows in the Natural World.” Patricia loves watching birds and hearing the rustle of sea grapes.
For more information, visit AsMayaGrows.com.
About the Illustrator
Kim Soderberg is a Children’s Book Illustrator with a personal and professional passion for helping children grow in kindness through visual storytelling. After her son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the importance of advocating for acceptance became a focal point in her work. Through portraying characters of all differences and abilities, she supports a culture where we all belong as we are in this world.
Kim currently lives in Cleveland, Ohio, with her graphic designer husband, Josh, and their three energetic children. She has a BFA in illustration from the Columbus College of Art Design and is an active member of SCBWI. When she is not illustrating, you can find her creating with Sculpey, exploring Lake Erie, or searching for a new succulent to add to her collection.
For more information, visit kimsoderbergillustration.com.
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