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Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
In Silas Spies: Spring by Colleen Driscoll, readers are introduced to a boy named Silas, who’s just learned from his friend, Bunny, that it’s now spring. Surprised and excited, Silas remembers his promise to his other friend, Turtle. Silas told Turtle he’d wake him once spring had arrived. So, he and Bunny set out on an adventure to find their hibernating buddy. Along the way, they spy all kinds of clues that the new season has sprung, from buzzing bees and returning birds to the familiar smell of rain and fresh grass. They also meet Flora, whom they ask to join them. They pause often to notice the small changes happening around them. But with so many signs to explore, will they reach Turtle in time, or will Silas get too caught up in spotting the wonders of spring?
Silas Spies: Spring, written and illustrated by Colleen Driscoll, is a sweet and gentle story full of charming seasonal details. The illustrations are especially eye-catching because every page is made from real natural materials—petals, leaves, seeds, twigs, and more. My favorite illustration is the page introducing Bunny. His soft, textured form fills the page, and I just loved it. I also enjoyed how Silas and Bunny’s journey puts an emphasis on friendship and teamwork. From an educator’s perspective, I think it could be used to have classroom conversations about the signs of spring, animal behaviors, and seasonal changes. I also believe it could be extended by taking a nature walk or doing an art activity, such as making a person using found objects. I recommend this book to fans of children’s nature stories, who will absolutely love this thoughtful and enjoyable tale set in the earliest days of spring.
