We’ve been long time fans of Nikki McClure’s detailed paper-cut illustrations – baby journals, posters, and of course her yearly calendars. So when we heard word she had a new children’s book out, we were keen to pick up a copy.

As you’d expect from McClure, the artwork is terrific, and the subject matter timely for the upcoming season: a tribute to community farmers’ markets.

McClure’s work has always been focused around themes of nature, family, the virtues of labor, and savoring the simple things in life, and To Market, To Market is in line with all four of these motifs.

Moving back and forth between story and fact, the book follows a mother and her son as they visit their favorite vendors at the local farmers market. Following each stop along the way, the reader learns the process of how each item (kale, apples, cheese, honey, smoked salmon, napkins, & blueberry turnovers) was produced, paying homage to the skilled artisans and farmers who grow or make them.

What’s really nice about a book like this, aside from its great message, is that younger kids can simply stick to the brief introductions to each food, while older kids will appreciate the expanded sections.

To Market, To Market by Nikki McClure, $17.00

(Images: Ben Partridge)