A Moon for Seasons

Using clear imagery and rich watercolors, Turner ( Apple Valley Year ) and first-time illustrator Noreika create a collection of nature poems that shimmers with life. Beginning with winter, the book devotes a section of seven poems to each season. During a snowfall a girl can ``lie on my back and watch / them falling, feel them / falling, and taste sky / on my tongue''; in summer, swallows' tails ``slice the clouds / more delicate than surgeons.'' The verse has a comfortable, easy-to-read rhythm, and identifiable, though fresh comparisons that should be accessible to the target audience. Noreika's lush outdoor scenes exhibit a skillful play of sunlight, moonglow and shadow. His frogs, porcupines and vegetation are an interesting blend of realism and romance. Nature lovers and poetry aficionados alike have something to cheer about. Ages 6-10. (Mar.)