In The Middle of Fall

08/10/2021

Book Review: In the Middle of Fall

As we hit the “dog days” of Summer, it is sometimes hard to remember that fall will soon come to us. This charming book by Kevin Henkes, with illustrations by Laura Dronzek, who happens to be his wife, is a beautiful reminder of the new season that is right around the corner.

The book itself is somewhat oversized, at 9 by 11 inches, which makes it perfect for storytime and reading aloud. The illustrations are soft and gentle, featuring a child, a dog, squirrels, a mouse, and an exquisitely drawn goldfinch plucking seeds from a fading sunflower. The reader is drawn through the subtle changes Fall brings, with a focus on the colors. The brown gardens, red apples, orange pumpkins, and the blizzard of reds, yellows, and oranges when an autumn wind blows through the trees, all are part of this beautiful season.  We are also reminded that after Fall, the snow will fly, and thus the cycle of the seasons goes on. 

School Library Journal said, “This exquisite picture book will inspire youngsters to get outdoors and observe the world around them.” Booklist called the book “Masterfully conceived and executed.” BCCB said the book is “A vision of fall as clear and crisp as the season itself.”

This book is another great collaboration from this talented couple. As a Midwesterner, the scenes are comforting and familiar to me and evoke memories of pumpkin farm and orchard visits with my children. Henkes and Dronzek live in Madison, Wisconsin, and have clearly drawn inspiration from local scenery and happenings. To add it to your collection, click here. Other books in the Kevin Henkes’ “Seasons” series include Summer Song and When Spring Comes, and they are a great way to teach children about the changing seasons.