Spot, Spike, Spiral by Sarah Grace Tuttle, illustrated by Miriam Nerlove. Creative Editions, 2019. ISBN 9781568463339
Format: Board book
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Genre: Concept/patterns
What did you like about the book? Natural patterns are depicted in various animals in this lovely board book. Like the author’s Dot, Stripe, Squiggle, strange and wonderful creatures invite close investigation to discover the pattern announced on the page. Very simple text – just the words of the title – accompany close up views of beetles, caterpillars, snakes, frogs and other creatures. Kids will mostly likely be familiar with spots, and they will come to know what spikes and spirals look like – I like that these unusual design elements are introduced. The color-rich art is pleasing and realistic. I love that the twelve animals are named in a guide at the end.
Anything you didn’t like about it? No
To whom would you recommend this book? Flag this one for small children and their families who enjoy the natural world, especially unusual animals. Gift the two board books by Tuttle to families with new babies.
Who should buy this book? Public libraries and day cares
Where would you shelve it ? Board books
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Yes
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Date of review: March 31, 2019
Youth Services Book Review 
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