"The Step by Step series tracks the basic steps in a natural or human­made process. Whether it is a plant growing, an insect going through its life cycle, or a manufacturing process, each process is broken down into simple parts. For example, The Story of a Football notes that 'First, a worker cuts the leather,' and 'Next, a machine stamps the panels.' The Story of a Ladybug follows this insect from egg to larva to pupa and, finally, to adult ladybug. The Story of a Tulip describes how gardeners plant tulip bulbs and water them until they bloom. In The Story of Syrup, a maple tree is planted and grows, after which the book shows its sap being harvested, boiled, and poured into bottles as syrup. Beginning readers will likely be able to decode the short sentences-only one or two per page---on their own, and liberal use of sequence words will help them follow the order of events. While the excessively simple text and frequent use of the passive voice might not hold readers' attention, the detailed, closeup photographs that illustrate each step of the processes will.

Photos remain central in a four-item picture glossary, although not in the brief index. A simple introduction to popular science and manufacturing concepts, best for beginning readers."--Booklist.