Harriet’s Hungry Worms is an absolute delight of a picture book that takes us on a wiggly adventure into the world of composting with Harriet and her squirmy friends. The story revolves around Harriet, who’s been given the important task of taking care of the 983 worms in her family’s compost bin. As Harriet watches her wiggly companions eat their way through the week, she discovers the magic of composting and the wonders of nature in her own backyard.

Author Samantha Smith has a knack for blending humor with education, making learning about composting and worms feel like a playful game rather than a lesson. The way Harriet describes the worms’ meals is both hilarious and gross in the best way possible, like when they didn’t seem too fond of Nanna Trudy’s two-year-old tomato relish. Kids are sure to giggle at these quirky details and artwork while unknowingly absorbing important environmental lessons.

I also loved how the book introduced children to the idea of sustainability without being preachy. Harriet’s excitement over the “worm wee” and her joy in seeing her veggie patch thrive because of it is contagious. The “Worm Facts” at the end of the book are a brilliant touch, providing additional tidbits for inquisitive minds, and I found myself learning a thing or two right alongside Harriet.

Melissa Johns’ illustrations complement this perfectly, bringing the story to life with vibrant colors and expressive characters. The illustrations are just as much a part of the storytelling as the text. The pictures are full of energy, much like the worms themselves, and there’s always something new to discover on each page.

Harriet’s Hungry Worms is a must-read for young eco-warriors, curious gardeners, and any child who loves a good laugh. It’s the perfect picture book for kids aged 4 to 8, though I suspect that older readers will also find themselves charmed by Harriet and her hardworking worms.

Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1922539473

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/08/26/harriets-hungry-worms/