All Around a Year by Mariana Ruiz Johnson

This beautifully illustrated picture book follows a charming mouse family through the changing seasons, offering young readers a gentle introduction to the cyclical nature of the year. From cozy winter reading sessions to vibrant spring bike rides and summer ice cream treats, the story captures the distinct essence of each season in a way that feels both magical and familiar. The narrative thoughtfully balances the comforting constants of family life with the exciting transformations that occur as months pass, making it an excellent tool for discussing seasonal changes with preschoolers and kindergarteners. Children will delight in spotting the subtle shifts in the family's activities and environment as the story progresses.

What makes this seasonal adventure particularly engaging is its circular structure, which cleverly reinforces the concept of time as a repeating cycle that "begins again." The warm, detailed illustrations invite close inspection, encouraging children to notice seasonal details and predict what might come next in the annual rhythm. This book serves as a wonderful conversation starter about family traditions, weather patterns, and how nature evolves throughout the year. For parents seeking a comforting story that helps children understand the passage of time, this cyclical journey through the months provides both educational value and cozy reading moments that families will return to season after season.