After reading a book about growing sunflowers, kindergarten teacher Ms. B gives each student three seeds. Recalling the poem they had read, the three seeds allowed for “one for the birds, one for the rain, and one to grow.” After classmate Ollie peels and pops a seed into his mouth, Ms. B smiles and provides one more to everyone. The miraculous growing cycle of sunflowers is recounted through the eyes of a young narrator, from the tiny sprouts in a paper cut to the strong stalk transplanted in his backyard. Matter of fact observations about plant growth are intertwined with kernels of kid wisdom. Following an episode of a nibbling backyard deer, that narrator reflects, “I thought about the poem and changed it again. One for the deer, one for the rain, and one to grow.” Rich oil paintings on brown paper illuminate the inquisitive faces of young gardeners and bring botanical drama to the developing sunflowers. Occasional circular compositions add variation to the visual layout, and magnify details, like the delicate dance of a honeybee pollinating the tiny interior flowers of the sunflower head. Elegant writing and child-centric elements bring depth and beauty to a common rite of classroom gardening. Highly Commended, 2026 Charlotte Zolotow Award

Watch Nature Bloom with Sunflower Seeds!

How do tiny seeds become towering sunflowers? Join Ms. B's class and discover the magic of nature in Sunflower Seeds. This picture book guides young readers through the simple steps of planting, watering, and caring for sunflowers, teaching valuable lessons about patience and nurturing along the way.

Ellen Heck's sumptuous oil paintings on brown paper beautifully illustrate the sunflower's life cycle from a child's perspective. Witness the journey from dusty seeds in cups to sprouting seedlings, developing buds, and finally, magnificent blooms. Will the seedlings survive a rainstorm? Or hungry deer at dusk?

Learn how one giant sunflower produces a multitude of new seeds at summer's end. This engaging story is a perfect introduction to plant life cycles and an inspiration for nature projects at home or in the classroom. Experience the joy of growth and connect with the natural world!