By Erin Alladin & Tara Anderson
Two young children observe milkweed growing in their community—from seed to new buds to flowers.
Wait like a seed,
Cozy and small.
Wait like a seed
‘Til the spring rains fall.
Wait Like a Seed beautifully explores the life cycle of milkweed and its vital relationship to monarch butterflies. Complete with accurate botanical drawings and comprehensive back-matter detailing the life cycles of plants and butterflies, this timeless story is perfect for both school curriculums and curious children who enjoy nature. Children will be inspired to help save the diminishing population of monarch butterflies in their own environment. This book combines the wonders of nature with poetic text and warm and welcoming art.
Award-winning author Erin Alladin invites young gardeners to celebrate the world around them in this rhyming nonfiction text.
Illustrator Tara Anderson portrays these lifecycles with a nostalgic style, effectively capturing the wonder of the aspiring gardeners.
Praise for Wait Like a Seed
The Children’s Book Council “Hot off the Press” April 2025 Selection
“Of the many titles available on milkweeds and monarchs, this is one of the most accessible for youngsters reading on their own….while older readers and adults will appreciate the extensive backmatter….Useful and enlightening—and certain to have youngsters observing the natural world with wonder.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Declarative second-person verse and friendly renderings combine for an effect that communicates guidance about growing up as much as about cultivating plants….Science-focused back matter includes life cycle information, a glossary, and further facts.”—Publishers Weekly
“Wait Like a Seed tells a story about milkweed and the life cycle of monarch butterflies to impart valuable lessons to young readers.”—Bay Today
“Wait Like a Seed isn’t just a lesson about ecosystem life cycles. It’s also a life lesson about the importance of feeling connected to the life around us.”—705 Black Fly
