When Green Becomes Tomatoes

This is a very unique and beautiful book, all the way through. The poems are uniquely written. They present a unique perspective on their subjects. And the entire book is structured to read almost as diary entries – quite unique! Julie’s concept and execution are brilliant, with unusual wordplay and imagery (in springtime, “rushing daffodils / wished they had waited” and birds poke “a tiny hole / through the edge of winter”) and the varying tone of her poems – from joyful to contemplative to eager – keeps the collection fresh and keeps the pages turning. 

Fogliano’s charming poems move us through the course of a year and explore all the seasonal delights we love to be reminded of and are paired with Julie Morstad’s delicate, adorable hand-painted illustrations. This slightly longer picture book could be picked up and started on any page, split up into several readings, or given to the child to immerse themselves into on their own. There’s no wrong way to love this book.