The Life of Rice: From Seedling to Supper    by Richard Sobol Order:  USA  Can Candlewick, 2010 (2010) Hardcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Bob Walch This is the story of one of the major food sources for millions of people throughout the world. Young readers eight years of age and older are invited to accompany photographer Richard Sobol as he visits Thailand to explore the life of rice. The first stop are the rice paddies where the Royal Plowing Ceremony is celebrated as the planting of the rice seeds occurs. Then a combination of hand labor, farm animals and special machines are used to plant, grow and, eventually, harvest the rice crop. Once harvested, the rice must be dried and then bagged before it can be sent to market. The complete rice story also includes seeing how the remaining stalks left from the harvesting are recycled for animal food. You'll also follow the finished product as it finds its way to family tables throughout the country. In addition to the photos that illustrate each step of the tale of how rice makes it from field to table, Sobol includes Rice Facts, a glossary of terms, and a list of rice holidays like Songkran in April and the Yehkuja – Akha Swing Festival in August and September. Combining a detailed text with plenty of color photos, this informative picture book will give young readers a firsthand account of one of the world's most valuable and important crops. Start with this volume and then, once the child's curiosity is piqued, go online or find other books that will provide a more detailed look at the topic. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews