Jennifer Ward, Shambhala Publications, $12.95

It is unfortunate, but understandable in today's hectic world, that parents need books to come up with ideas for helping their children connect to nature. The good news is that there are such books and I Love Dirt! is a great example of activities that help youngsters better understand and appreciate the natural world.

The book is divided into seasons, with roughly a dozen outdoor activities for each. Parents, grandparents, educators and even babysitters can read chapters of the book before or during excursions that don't include museums, galleries or zoos. Armed with information, they should be able to answer most questions little ones will ask.

"Help Me Understand" boxes are included in each chapter and provide the most obvious question a child should have with each activity. More importantly, it includes an answer for the adult.

- Brett Prettyman