When Fall Comes

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When Fall Comes: Connecting with Nature as the Days Grow Shorter by Aimée M. Bissonette and Erin Hourigan is a gorgeous picture book that captures the joy of a family enjoying the outdoors in fall. The book takes us on a journey through various ecosystems, showcasing diverse animal habitats that come alive after the summer crowds have left the trails. As the wildlife adapts and prepares for the winter months ahead, the family also busily gets ready for the seasonal change.

In this delightful book, the air grows crisper and the days grow shorter, signaling the arrival of autumn. The family embarks on adventures such as foraging for mushrooms in the woods, while chipmunks stash seeds in underground burrows and red squirrels gather pinecones. Badgers dig new dens and bears search for the perfect spot to hibernate, mirroring the family's preparations for winter in their own home.

Amidst this backdrop, readers are introduced to the wonders of nature during fall. Silver-red salmon fight their way up rushing streams, returning to their birthplaces, while mud flats fill with feeding shorebirds migrating for the winter. The vibrant illustrations perfectly depict the changing colors of aspen leaves, from green to gold.

When Fall Comes not only celebrates the beauty of autumn but also inspires families to explore and connect with nature during this season. It is a part of the When Seasons Come series, which includes When Summer Comes and When Winter Comes board and picture books.

In my opinion, this book was a sweet little gem. It explores themes of foraging for food, animals seeking shelter, and preparing for the Fall/Winter season. The illustrations are soft and beautifully depict the colors of fall. I believe it would make a great addition to any young person's first library.

ARC Via NetGalley