My Boat, by Kay Davies & Wendy Oldfield

Davies, Kay & Oldfield, Wendy. My Boat (First Step Science series). Photographs by Fiona Pragoff. Gareth Stevens Publishing, 1994. 32 pages. $11.99, ISBN 0-8368-1115-1

[No image available of cover.  Here is a link to the Worldcat record.]

AGE LEVEL
3 and 4 year-olds

GENRE
Nonfiction  (Boats, Water Displacement)

REVIEW
At about 5-10 words per page, this short book about the properties of boats, how they float, water displacement, and how to make some simple vessels, is perfect for 3 and 4 year-olds.  We explore the world of boats through the eyes of two young boys who appear to be 5-6 years old, and of different races, a positive aspect of this work.  Unfortunately there is only one image of a young girl.  Topics in the book are explained simply and concisely.  Photographs are large and clearly illustrate the text that accompanies them. There is some helpful additional material following the text: notes to help adults explain the scientific concepts touched upon in the book, suggested activities and topics for further learning, facts about boats, a glossary, a list of science museums, a few recommended books, and an index.  Although a bit dated in appearance, this book is an interesting introduction to the topic.

LIBRARY PROGRAMMING IDEAS
Here's a good song to pair with this book at preschool storytime:

          LIGHTLY ROW
         
          Lightly row,  
          Lightly row,
          Over the deep blue sea we go,
          Smoothly glide,
          Smoothly glide,
          On the gentle tide.
          
          Let the wind and waters be,
          Mingled with our rhyme of glee,
          Sing and float,
          Sing and float,
          In our rowing boat.