Nothing more HOPE-filled Than EGG

Anchoring this post in Covid19 time:
A struggle is underway, at least in this country, between those who believe we must "OPEN UP" to save "the economy" or persist with a SaferAtHome policy. I've been heartened by the fact that young people seem to be adjusting to a cautious approach better than many who claim the title of "adult". 
Social media and YouTube are awash in innovative ways to learn at home, to celebrate proms, graduations, and other landmark events while making smart choices for the greater good. 
Even so, the longer this goes on, the more distant we seem to be from a conclusion, the harder it is to hold on to HOPE.

Astronomical and meteorological SPRING has arrived. Here in the northern Midwest the weather has been remarkably mild and warm, and yet...
Despite greening lawns and vegetative sprouting, the colorful blooms in my own yard have been very reluctant to unfold. Perhaps they sense the worrisome atmosphere.
Or, perhaps, I am just having trouble waiting.
But I haven't stopped HOPING.

A recent board book helps me hold on to that hope.

Creative Editions, 2020

EGG, written by Amy Sky Koster and illustrated by Lisel Jane Ashlock, is a gorgeous example of the best elements in this format. Libraries and parents can be expected to consider the value of the physical object: durability, size, age-appropriate content, long-lasting appeal. 
Check. 
I, too, appreciate a board book that can live in a toddler's hands with as much joy and survivability as a favorite toy. I've shared many of these in past posts.
Even more, though, I adore board books that bring all those assets to tiny hands while offering outstanding aspects of quality picture books. 
EGG does just that.
Quite a few outstanding picture books and their characters find new identities in board books using a modified version of the original. In this case I'd advocate for the advantages of developing a picture book version from this original board book. 
Each open spread provides an illustration and two-word line regarding a specific egg, with the double spread resulting in a simple rhyme: 

Opening double-spread interior- EGG, 2020 Board Book, Creative Editions

For each of thirteen actual eggs (and one fun ringer) the ornithological/botanical images have the luminosity, accuracy, and beauty of classical paintings, showcased on bright white background and free of distracting details. The distinctions among eggs in size, shape, color, habitat, and life-stage are as captivating as the perfectly metered text and page turns. The final turn provides a science bonus, labeling thumbnail images of each with the birds' common names. 

For an added dose of related bird/egg/hope/Spring encouragement, check out some previous reviews about ROBINS and NESTS,  BIRDS both real and imagined, and LIFE CYCLES in nature.

As for me, the toughest of nests of eggs, downy hatchlings, and fuzzy fledglings give me HOPE. May we all hold on to the wisdom of eggs, opening up in Nature's own good time, emerging gradually and safely, and only when the time is right.

And for those of us whose brains keep reverting to Covid-related issues, here are some things that I found intriguing this week:
A link to an interview with a Milwaukee area COVID19 survivor, a young woman whose account has led to a blog and website that allows others to share their individual stories. 
A link to the background on how "the ECONOMY" actually became a force in American politics.