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Exploring the Changing Seasons with Kenard Pak’s Illustrated Series

The Changing Seasons series by Kenard Pak introduces readers to the beauty of nature as it transitions from one season to the next. The series begins with Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn, a delightful book that captivated my toddlers and sparked their fascination with a charming dappled dog who appears on nearly every page. Each time we turned the page, their excitement was palpable as they pointed and barked, mirroring their love for canines.

This series effectively captures the essence of seasonal change, inviting young readers to engage with the world around them. Following the summer-themed entry, we incorporated Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring into our reading, with plans to soon explore Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter and the upcoming Goodbye Spring, Hello Summer, which I have preordered.

These beautifully illustrated works not only depict the idyllic charm of nature but also connect with familiar sights, making them relatable to children regardless of their environment. For instance, in Goodbye Summer, the mention of dogwood trees sparked a lovely moment when I was able to point to the one just outside our window. Engaging with the text, we often pantomime scenes from the book—blowing imaginary wind at each other, moving our arms as if we were branches swaying with the breeze, and even jumping in pretend puddles.

Anticipation for the arrival of each new installment is half the joy; however, we find immense pleasure in reading the available stories all year round. It’s heartwarming to see my children recognize the connection among the series, although I suspect their understanding might derive from the books being safely stacked out of reach to prevent any eager mishaps. Ultimately, it’s the playful bond with nature and the shared excitement of these seasonal stories that keeps our reading adventure alive.

Source
bookriot.com