Caldecott Artist Lois Ehlert uses her bold, distinctive collage art to demonstrate the many steps that go into preparing vegetable soup - literally from the ground up. The first step is planting, one of the many adventures which the loving father and child in this story share. Next they water, take care, and watch: what joy to see bean seeds become beans, and tomato plants tomatoes!The many vegetables - including potatoes, corn, and cabbage - grow and ripen, each in its own special way. Gathering together the fruits (or rather vegetables) of their labor, the family cooks a delicious vegetable soup. Nothing has ever tasted so good...and it's even better knowing they can grow everything again next year.This simple introduction to a natural process will fascinate young readers and encourage them to grow their own gardens - and the hungry will be glad to find the soup recipe included.