A Leaf Can Be... by Laura Purdie Salas and Violeta Dabija

A Leaf Can Be... picture book, authored by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Violeta Dabija, celebrates the wonders of the natural world in rhyming text.

"A leaf can be a... / soft cradle / water ladle / sun taker / food maker"

Information at the end of the book elaborates on the many roles that leaves play in the environment. For example, explaining how certain kinds of caterpillars spin their cocoons on leaves, which then become like a cradle until the moth hatches.

"Water ladle: Animals don't use bowls or spoons or cups. But many drink out of leaves! Leaves' shape makes them perfect for holding dew or rainwater."

Moldovan illustrator Dabija combines traditional and digital techniques to create her luminous, whimsical art -- it's reminiscent of Jon Klassen's work. The rich colours and playful imagery are very appealing. (See more of Dabija's art online here.)

This delightful book is suitable for preschoolers but also nice for all ages.

Readalikes: Red Sings from Treetops (J Sidman and P Zagarensky); You Are Stardust (E Kelsey and S Kim); Gus Is a Tree (Claire Babin); and Ubiquitous (J Sidman and B Prange).