Gather Up, Gather In: A Book of Seasons

by M.C. Helldorfer

Autumn is Halloween spooks. Winter is ice-skating over moon-white ice. Spring is the storms that bring flowers. Summer is twirling under water sprinklers. This book, with its child's-eye view of the unfolding seasons, its spare yet lyrical text and luminous illustrations, is perfect for sharing the joys of each passing season with young ones.

32 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1994

About the author

Mary-Claire Helldorfer has written numerous books for children and young adults. She lives in Baltimore, MD.

She also writes under the pseudonym of Elizabeth Chandler.

Reviews

[Melki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the changing seasons - all have their special charms and wonders to behold. Helldorfer presents a homey look at what makes each season unique. Reading this, I got that lump in my throat, and the usual melancholy feeling I get every year when summer turns to autumn.

Everything goes by so quickly . . .

The naif painting style of Judy Pedersen, while far from technically perfect, beautifully captures the moods and delights of each passing season.

[C CE · Rating 5 out of 5]

A whimsical children's story that explores the cycle of the four seasons, capturing their beauty and transitions in a poetic way.

[Alana Graham · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provides lengthy descriptions of all the seasons. It's a little lengthy, but could be effective to use when talking about seasons if only excerpts are read.

[Brandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would read this book to introduce a lesson about the four seasons. Students can talk about what they notice in the different seasons.