I Can Build a Fort!

Gr 3–5—Bright colors and a collagelike layout with lots of asymmetrical, non-square graphic elements add energy to this upbeat, idea-filled series. Positivity rules, as kids learn about seven different small businesses they could start, five kinds of plants they could grow, and any number of activities that teach new skills, expand knowledge, or reduce waste. Fort and Garden go to some length to show these activities to be accessible even to kids with minimal outdoor space or resources (start seeds in yogurt cups or build forts out of chairs and blankets). Detailed instructions include steps for planning and getting permission, and emphasize teamwork. Business, Yard Sale, and Garden encourage writing, design, and math skills, while Party and Fort are fun but less relevant. The instructions in Band that "A song can also be a simple expression of joy!" are a bit vague.