Diggin' Dirt

"In this adorable entry in the Origami Science Adventures series, paper pup Kitanai learns from a very insightful earthworm named Roger the ins and outs of soil. The mixed-media art adventure begins when Kitanai's creator leaves him sitting in the garden after chores are done. Cavorting across the topsoil, becoming increasingly filthier by the moment, the little dog disparages the earth beneath him until Roger explains that "life on earth depends on healthy soil." The earthworm then breaks down the components of earth while Kitanai learns new terms like humus and bedrock. Some concepts are moderately advanced for the target audience, but the playful tone-including a poop joke or two-should keep readers engaged. As a final parting gift, readers are treated to instructions on how to make their own origami dog."

"...sometimes picture books on difficult science topics are good to have, and the origami tie in was irresistable. While these had a fun story and lots of information, they really were more appropriate for grades K-3, as the publisher suggests. If you work with younger students, definitely give them a try."

"In each of these thinly disguised lectures, a newly folded origami dog, robot, bee, or dinosaur has an informative conversation about a science topic with an animate item or a living creature. Each figure has a distinct personality, so the give-and-take is as entertaining as the art. . . .Young readers will get to gander at three types of rocks with dinosaur Rudie, learn about soil components with dog Kitanai, get an overview of plant parts with bee Charlie, and glimpse at some of the technological uses of magnets with robot MAG-3000. This set is certainly unusual enough in presentation to have some appeal as a change of pace, and a link in each volume to more information on a dedicated publisher's website will appeal to young researchers whose curiosity has been piqued."