WHO LIKES THE RAIN?

A multicultural cast of characters gives their many reasons for liking the rain in this fourth in the Exploring the Elements series (after snow, sun and wind). In the same successful format as the previous books, the left-hand pages feature a child completing the phrase “I like the rain because . . . ,” while a related science question is posed on the right. A gatefold then opens to present readers with a simple and succinct, but accurate and thorough, answer. Among these, youngsters will learn why it rains, where puddles come from, why worms come out in the rain, why plants need water and why the air smells different after a storm. Kaner’s clever format allows her to address a collection of questions that lacks cohesion in a way that flows. It will also get kids thinking about what they might like about rainstorms. Lafrance’s softly colored acrylics match the tone of the text perfectly, while the simply rendered groups of illustrations behind the gatefolds work to help children understand the scientific answers. A winner with nature lovers, puddle jumpers, curious young scientists and teachers. (Nonfiction. 4-7)