Sweep Up the Sun

by Helen Frost, Rick Lieder (Illustrator)

Illuminated by exquisite photographs of eleven species of birds, a spareand elegantpoem inspires readers to open their wings and soar.

Baby robins, open-beaked in their nest. Mallards winging to a new clime. Whether chickadees or cardinals, sparrows or starlings, here are commonly seen birds in their natural settings, captured in photographs of rare beauty and grace. In perfect synchrony, a lyrical narrative evokes images of play and flight, perseverance and trust.At the end, readers will find profiles of the featured species. This stunning book is an ideal gift for bird lovers of all ages, graduates, or anyone embarking on an adventure.

Genres: Poetry, Picture Books, Birds, Animals, Nonfiction, Nature, Storytime

32 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2015

About the author

I'm dipping my toes into goodreads to see how it works. Thanks for finding me here, and thanks to everyone who has read and written about my books. I love to know you're there, even if I don't come here too often to say so.

Helen Frost is the author of eleven novels-in-poems and seven picture books for children and young adults. She lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

http://us.macmillan.com/author/helenf...

Reviews

[Mary Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely poem, gorgeous photographs. I would like to see if my students can tease out some meanings other than the literal (flight of birds.)

[Heydi Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing photography with simple, lyrical words.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful photos!

[Mary Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poet Helen Frost reunites with photographer Rick Lieder to explore the wonders of the natural world. I adored their previous collaboration, Step Gently Out, and this new book is equally as delightful. Frost's poem encourages young readers to watch birds in flight playing in the sky, learning to fly and trusting the sky to hold them aloft. But she also encourages children to do the same:
"Spread your feathers,
sweep up the sun,
ride the wind and explore."
We can read this as a direct encouragement for children to take off and soar on their own. Lieder's amazing photography captures birds in mid-flight, freezing a moment in time. The final two pages provide brief information about each of the species photographed, ranging from house sparrows to Northern Cardinals.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lyrical text highlights gorgeous close-up photos of several birds in flight: goldfinch, American robin, black-capped chickadee, house sparrow, blue jay, northern cardinal, European starling, house finch, mallard duck, white-breasted nuthatch, red-bellied woodpecker, and downy woodpecker. I very much appreciated that the birds were identified in the back matter, with a short paragraph about each. For blue jays and northern cardinals, the paragraphs state that these birds are found in the eastern US, but we definitely also have them down here in Texas--I see them in my backyard a lot. A lovely book for young bird watchers.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational text set against stunning photos of different species of birds.

Great read aloud, PreK-2+.

[Edward Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elegant verse illustrated with stunning color photographs.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple rhyming poem celebrating the flight of various birds throughout the seasons is paired with gorgeous close-up photographs of those birds in this lovely picture book from author/photographer team Helen Frost and Rick Lieder. The book closes with a two-page informational section giving more details about each of the bird highlighted...

Published in 2015, Sweep Up the Sun is the third book I have read from this creative team, and the second in their Step Gently, Look Closely series, following upon their debut together, Step Gently Out . Having encountered a subsequent book in the series first ( Among a Thousand Fireflies ), and then sought out the first one, I'm glad to have now tracked down this second installment. Like those others, I found that the simple poem evoked the beauty and wonder of its subject matter, while the photographs captured the magic of birds in flight, and the breathtaking play of light on their wings and delicate bodies. These are images one will want to pore over! As mentioned in my review of the first book, I don't read many photographic (as opposed to illustrated) picture books, so these books are something a little different for me, and I will definitely be seeking out more from the series. As it happens, I have created a new tag/shelf for such books, to track them. Recommended to young nature and bird lovers, as well as to those seeking photographic picture books.

[Sophia Igarta · Rating 3 out of 5]

As this book follows baby birds in learning to fly and many other behaviors of birds, readers are also being encouraged to start something new and take a chance. This book can be used in the classroom to have students write their own poem about bird behaviors, either learning to fly, migrating, flying through a storm, etc. The poem would take a bird behavior and relate it to an experience they've had. Maybe they learned a new skill but it took a while to learn, or they went through difficult times but kept flying until they made it through it.
The pictures in this book are in a nearly realistic style, that shows the birds and shows them in action. The backgrounds of the illustrations are also blurred out, maintaining focus on the birds.

[Katt Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. You cannot look at this book without being awed by the incredible pictures taken by Rick Leider. I just want to savor each and every one of them. Then the sheer masterstroke of adding the poetry to these pictures was genius. Together this is a beautiful book that I know I'll be buying to give as a gift again and again (as soon as I first get a copy for myself of course!)

I'm not sure how the intended audience of children would react to this, but my adult daughter is equally in love. So do yourself a favor: even if this is a kid book take a look at this one just for you. Especially if you love birds. I think you'll really enjoy it!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is listed in, "Recommended Poetry Literature," in the textbook Essentials of Children's Literature, (Short, Lynch-Brown, Tomlinson, p. 94). The photographs of the birds perfectly match the verses. And the verses are inspiring, encouraging and uplifting like the wind under the wings of the birds. At the end of the book are photographs and information about the birds that are all seen in the USA or the USA and Canada, or the USA and Mexico, or the USA and Canada and Mexico. This book could be used in a science unit on birds.

[Bailee Yale · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the Essentials of Children's Literature under the sub heading single illustrated poems you will see Sweep Up the Sun. The poetry is about commonly seen birds in their natural habitat captured by photographs. A narrative evokes images of play and flight, perseverance and trust. The print content was understandable to children because poetry is often expressive reflection on life. The visual content of the poetry was real life birds captured in a photograph. I thought it was unique to be able to capture those moments of birds and make a poem out of it. I would utilize this book in a science activity because in the back of this book it gives you a description of each bird that was photographed. It would be unique to let the students be able to read those and offer their commentary on it.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like many of the other poetry books for children, Sweep Up the Sun features a section in the back devoted to informative profiles. Sweep Up the Sun is specifically about birds and includes full page spread photographs about each bird. Overall, this book is informative and uplifting, and because of its large photographs and minimal wording will be a favorite of young children.

[Timothy Farring · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great work of non fiction that paired with excellent photographs of birds would be a valuable addition to any lesson plan on biology.
I felt that the information in this book was valuable knowledge and I would add this to my classroom library.
The photographs of the birds in this book were breathtaking and I loved reading this book.

[Lydia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short inspirational poems, mostly on flight and the movement of birds, with beautiful pictures of common "backyard" birds of North America.

Skilled photography, nice (but not super memorable) poems; little bird enthusiasts will enjoy the pictures and the more detailed information about the different birds featured in the back of the book.

No content issues.

[Merrilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful nature poems by the author and beautiful photographs of birds in this picture book that would be wonderful to share with children to help them identify and appreciate birds. I have met the author in real life and so I cherish this book.

[Tyler Garries · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweep the sun is a picture book that uses images of birds learning to fly to teach the values of perseverance. Through poems the author puts into words, how even through tough times and struggles you can come out on the other side stronger than were before. The pictures in the book are full art actual photographs of birds and they are very pretty to look at. They don't offer much in the way of furthering the text but provide nice nature pictures.

[Turrean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous photos; short poetic text.

[Luella Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful bird pictures.

[Valencia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book! I loved the poem and the pictures actually add a great deal to the overall feeling you get when you read this. I really loved it!

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

4 for the photos, 2 for the text. Honestly would've preferred just the photos.

[Maeve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful photographs of birds accompany a poem that celebrates birds and feathers and flight.

Storytime:
Birds

[Clarissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely photographs of nature.

[Vera Godley]

Rick Lieder's photography is stunning. You will be tempted to sit and look at these pictures for long periods of time because they capture the grace and beauty of the birds and at the most exquisite moment as their wings sweep through the air.

Helen Frost's words capture the true essence that is these lovely birds putting into words their grace.

"Rise into the air on the strength of your wings--
go out to play in the sky,
trusting it to hold you
as you learn to fly."

I have always been enthralled by the beauty and magnificence that is designed into these winged creatures we call birds. This little book is more than a "birding" book, it takes you to their moments of grace and strength.

At the end of this book are a couple of pages dedicated to imparting factual information about the birds pictured in the book. Super nice information.

I just became acquainted with the beautiful works of Helen Frost and photographer Rick Lieder and have fallen in love with and am awed with the splendid beauty of the photography as it captures the wonders of birds and insects. The sparse lines of prose so beautifully intersect with the beauty of the images that one's mind journeys deeply into the eye-capturing visions of loveliness.

Published by Candlewick Press these are considered children's books but should also be considered as a coffee table keepsake book that one can pickup and take a few moments to gaze and revel in our absolutely lovely world. I heartily recommend all three of the books in the series!

I have a giveaway on my blog for a copy of Among A Thousand Fireflies (the most recent in this series of delightful books by author & photographer) that runs from 6/11 & ends 6/30/2016. Open to US/CANADIAN addresses. https://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/201...

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own & I was not compensated.

[Tasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The pair who created Step Gently Out return with another gorgeous book connecting young readers to nature. This picture book focuses on birds and flight, using the metaphor to encourage young people to "fly" themselves and spread their own wings in life. The poem at the heart of the book is simple and lovely, creating a sense of wonder and opportunity. The photographs dynamically capture eleven species of birds in flight and in their natural habitats. There are wide-mouthed babies in the nest and incredible pictures of birds in full flight, like the one on the cover. This is a book that inspires both in words and images.

Frost is a gifted poet who has written novels in verse for older readers as well as picture books for younger readers. Her words here create a positive feeling of strength for the reader, showing them what is possible. At the same time, her poem is also beautifully written, creating imagery that is tangible and that will make sense for children. One of my favorites is that wings are "stitching earth to sky with invisible thread."

Lieder's photographs are simply stunning. He has captured birds in poses that are dramatic and amazing, leaving plenty of dappled light and green on the page for the poetry to shine next to his images. I found myself leaning into the book to look even more closely at the structure of wing and feather on the page.

I hope there will be more collaboration between these two since their first two books are so noteworthy. This vibrant picture book will be at home equally in units on birds and poetry. Appropriate for ages 5-8.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely breathtaking photographs of 11 different types of birds accompany an inspiring poem from Helen Frost. The lines can be read literally since they are, obviously, all about the sojourn of those small winged wonders that sit on our tree branches and fill the blue skies, leaving our hearts in awe at their acrobatic feats. As the birds in this book rise up, stretch their wings, and face down some perils, readers will hold their breath in concern that everything will turn out all right, and they'll make it home safely. But underneath that literal meaning, readers might not be blamed for reading the lines as a sort of cautionary tale for anyone beginning a new phase in life's journey or as a reminder of the places they'll go and the things that they'll do, perhaps a shorter version of the famous Dr. Seuss book often given as a graduation gift. If only we could go to all the places these birds must surely travel and still find our own way back again. Yes, I loved this one just as much as the previous pairing of Frost and Lieder, Step Gently Out.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The star of this book is Rick Lieder's gorgeous photography as the backdrop for Helen Frost's poem. Unlike most bird photography, the subjects of these photographs are captured in mid-flight with the luster of light, shadow, raindrops, and snowflakes. Children and adults will be amazed by the quality of the photographs and encouraged by the verse. In addition, a detailed pictorial glossary at the end gives more detailed information about each species captured in the pictures. I recommend this title to add to poetry collections and entice nature lovers - especially backyard bird watchers. I would also recommend it to science teachers who are looking for inviting pieces to introduce a study of flight or ornithology.

[Hannah Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't had time to review all my "regular" books lately, let alone any storytime books, but this book is just so beautiful that I feel compelled to throw it up here. Helen Frost's lyrical poetry pairs perfectly with Rick Lieder's photography; the photos are large and striking enough to make this an excellent read-aloud for even the very young (I used it in my birth-24 months storytime this past week, and it was a big hit). On top of the sheer loveliness of the book I appreciated the message, also appropriate for all ages--Frost's gentle poetry encourages a love of nature and a willingness to explore and "test your wings."

[Sandy Brehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full disclaimer- I am an unabashed fan of Helen Frost, and this latest is as visually breathtaking as her poetic text. Also, I admit to being an amateur expert on midwestern birds (retired wildlife rehabilitator) and the subject matter guarantees my interest.
In this case, my high expectations were exceeded. The purity and poetry of the minimalist text results in a page-turning book despite the magnetic draw of each remarkable photograph.
If you never read another Frost book (shame on you!) make it this one. Then share it with readers of every age, including older youth and adults as mentor text for the potential of poetry to equal the spectacle of nature's beauty.

[Cara Byrne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another lovely collaboration between gifted photographer Frost and poet Rick Lieder. Unlike their first picture book that focused on insects, this work captures birds in flight - offering detailed photographs of each feather as it is sprawled out. Each bird has quite a bit of personality, whether it appears meek and mild or showy and boastful. This would be a great gift for a child who loves the outdoors and/or winged creatures.