Gathering: A Northwoods Counting Book

In this nature-themed counting book, Bowen (Tracks in the Wild) shows how inhabitants of the Minnesota northwoods work through the spring, summer and fall to prepare for the typically harsh winter. Thoughts of freezing temperatures and snow begin as early as May, when gardeners plant tomatoes and beans for canning. Throughout the summer animals and people gather and store berries, and kids collect ``warm memories'' such as ``floating along in the canoes under shooting stars.'' Bowen's familiarity with her subject matter manifests itself in both her welcoming text and her intricate colored-woodblock prints. Attractively designed, each spread introduces a number from one to 12 followed by a first-person anecdotal paragraph of information (e.g., ``Two rhubarb pies. Each year the bright red rhubarb stalks, with their big curled leaves, come up by themselves'') and is graced by one full-size woodblock print as well as spot illustrations. A predominantly cool palette of blues, purples and greens conveys the seasonal chill. Bowen also provides insight into the idiosyncracies of the region and of her characters (neighbors contruct a labyrinth of extension cords so that their truck battery will start, for instance), companionably underscoring the demands of the climate and her respect for the land. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)