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Are You A Butterfly?
Judy Allen
Illustrations by Tudor Humphries
Preschoolers are often fascinated by butterflies of all shapes, sizes and colors. This book is the perfect learning tool for parents and teachers who are interested in teaching youngsters about the life cycle of butterflies-from egg and larva to pupa/chrysalis and the adult stage. Written in a conversational tone, this resource uses colorful artwork and simple, oversized text to explain different aspects of a butterfly's life. A special "Did You Know..." section in the back of the book contains some interesting butterfly trivia such as "If a human baby grew as fast as a caterpillar, it would weight about 8 tons when it was only two weeks old." This introductory volume is designed to help children learn how to make thoughtful observations in nature and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for living things. Don't be surprised if after reading this book, young readers dash outside to check out the lepidopterous activity in the backyard. This wonderful title is an excellent complement to Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Part of the "Backyard Books" series. 2000, Kingfisher, Ages 4 to 7, $9.95. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-7534-5240-5
Arthropods
Bev Harvey
We all see examples of different kinds of arthropods almost every day. There are the ants in our kitchens, the spiders on our porch and the crabs we see scuttling across the beach where we spend summer days. Arthropods can be divided into several sub-groups of creatures. The main sub-groups are the insects, the spiders, and the crustaceans. Each sub-group is briefly described in this colorful book, with special emphasis being placed on certain species: Pet hermit Crabs, Funnel-web Spiders, Ants, and the Queen Alexandra Birdwing butterfly. Certain explanations are done very well while others are passed over. For example the word "cephalothorax" is not defined either in the text or the glossary. Some comments are confusing using terminology not usually applied to arthropods. For example arachnids are described as having a "tail section" when they don't really have tails. In the book the reader will find a very helpful diagram made up of photos which shows the lifecycle of the butterfly. More diagrams showing the various components of a typical insect, crustacean, and arachnid would also have been useful and would serve to show the reader how the basic arthropod body-plan is modified in each of these groups. There is an interesting section on pet hermit crabs but it doesn't really belong in a general book about an entire animal group. Perhaps the space could have been used to discuss how camouflage is used by many arthropods to hide and to find their food. In the back of the book the reader will find a glossary and an index. 2002, Chelsea Clubhouse, ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-7910-6986-9
The Beautiful Butterfly
Judy Sierra
Illustrations by Victoria Chess
A windmill against red mountains locates this variant of an oft-told folktale in Spain, where the lady butterfly alights at a tree hollow to make her home. Olive green leaves and lively brown bark against a cerulean sky make a foil for the fuchsia and turquoise, orange and yellow of Butterfly's clothes. First comes a cricket wanting to marry her. "And if I do marry you, how will you sing to our babies?" asks butterfly. The cricket's click-y song will not do. Neither will the frog's "Croo-AH!" Finally comes a running-suit-clad mouse whose wavery "ee-ee-ee-ee-ee" is exactly right. Mouse goes to fetch water for his lady only to fall in the pond and be eaten by a fish. Because children didn't like this sad ending, Judy Sierra conducted further research in Castile and Leon and discovered story endings involving underwear. Now Butterfly mourns as do the dove, the tree, the pond, and so forth until Mirabile, the king, runs around in his underwear! Everyone laughs until the fish chuckles "glu-glu-glu" and out pops the mouse. Told with comforting repetitions and enthusiastic pictures this charming and original tale is sure to please young readers. 2000, Clarion Books, Ages 3 to 7, $15.00. Reviewer: Nancy Tilly
ISBN: 0-395-90015-8
 Becoming Butterflies
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Megan Halsey
Miss Dana brings three striped caterpillars and a milkweed plant to school. Her students watch in fascination as the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly takes place. Rockwell has created another captivating concept book that will delight children as they follow Miss Dana's caterpillars through the cycle of life. The detailed watercolor paintings perfectly illustrate a Monarch from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. The front flyleaf illustrates a variety of caterpillars, and the back flyleaf illustrates the butterflies they become. Children can have fun matching the caterpillar with the butterfly. Teachers of young children will be thrilled to add this simple, yet factual, explanation of the life cycle to their classroom library. 2002, Walker Publishing, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-8027-8798-3
ISBN: 0-8027-8797-5
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor Book 2002 Science-Grades K-6 United States
Bugs, Beetles, and Butterflies
Harriet Ziefert
Illustrated by Lisa Flather
Meet a variety of creepy crawlies in this "Viking Science Easy-to-Read" book. Delightful, colored pencil illustrations show an attractive boy and girl looking at various insects (bugs, beetles and butterflies) they encounter while a rhyming text offers observations about the characteristics of these flying and crawling creatures. Four pages at the end give the names of the insects, a reference to the page in the text, and a close up view. The final page suggests a few activities. 1998, Viking, Ages 4 to 7, $13.89 and $3.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-670-88055-8
ISBN: 0-14-038691-2
Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
Catherine Daley
Illustrated by Jerry Smath
What kid doesn't like bugs? This book builds on that curiosity. Colorfully and correctly illustrated, dozens of beetles, butterflies, bees and insects of all kinds are categorized and explained. Each section contains a "do you know" box featuring a unique fact about a certain bug. There's just enough well-researched information for the young scientist to digest. A perfect addition to a unit about bugs and insects. Part of the "Reading Railroad Books" series. 2000, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 6 to 8, $3.49. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-448-42189-5
Butterflies
Jen Green
Who wouldn't enjoy learning about butterflies, their habitats, life cycles, and behavior? They are so beautiful, the one and only adorable looking insect. All of the information is here, but none of the charm or delight. Arguably, there is a need for all of us to understand that we as a species have been hard on the other inhabitants of the planet. But it just is not reasonable to expect a child who wouldn't know that insects lay eggs, to endure long lists of species facing extinction, no matter how dazzling their colors might be. Sometimes those who are the most involved with a subject simply are not the right ones to write about it for children. Part of the "Endangered!" series. Stock photos. 1999, Benchmark Books, Ages 5 to 9, $15.95. Reviewer: Janet Morgan Stoeke
ISBN: 0-7614-0321-3
Butterflies
Cari Meister
About one million insects have been identified and named which makes them the most populous animal on earth. Cari Meister has written a series of books about insects that are part of the "Checkerboard Science and Nature Library." She has focused on the more common insects and her selection and titles in the series include Butterflies, Crickets, Dragonflies, Fireflies, Ladybugs and Mosquitoes. Each book has a table of contents followed by a description of the insect and interesting facts - some butterflies such as the Monarch migrate. Body parts are clearly described and identified with full color pictures and drawings. The text describes what butterflies eat, where they live, their enemies and how they relate to humans. It does seem a little strange, however, to show a butterfly collection on the same page with a plea to prevent butterfly extinction. Each book contains a fun facts section, glossary, list of websites and an index. Targeted for grade three, this book will be of interest to readers in grades K-5. 2001, ABDO, Ages 7 to 8, $18.60. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-57765-459-5
Butterflies Fly
Yvonne Winer
Illustrated by Karen Lloyd-Jones
The sight of a butterfly in the air or perched on a brightly colored flower captures the eye. In this collection of fanciful poems, the eye is also drawn to the fabulous illustration of beautiful butterflies from around the world. The five lines of verse follow a pattern - they tell us how, when, where and why butterflies fly. The message is to heighten awareness that butterfly habitats are endangered and so are these glorious creatures. The final verse notes "Butterflies paint/A palette so bright:/A gift to the world. /A symphonic flight. /That's why butterflies fly." Factual information (common and scientific name, size, range, coloration and diet) about the butterflies is presented in the last spread along with full-color illustrations and in the order that they appear in the book. 2001, Charlesbridge, Ages 6 up, $6.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-57091-447-8
 Butterflies in the Garden
Carol Lerner
From its beautiful endpapers, which depict over three dozen common American butterflies, to its thoughtfully laid-out text, this nonfiction book invites readers to learn about butterflies. Lerner presents in text and pictures the kinds of flowers, weeds, and vegetable flowers that attract certain butterflies. The butterfly families of swallowtails, whites and sulphurs, gossamer wings, brushfoots, and skippers are differentiated and described such that you might go out in the back yard and name the different types you see. With illustrative support, she explains terms such as puddling (flocking to wet spots), proboscis, and nectar in the text. Egg laying is explained without reference to mating. Diagrams show caterpillars developing and molting but one wishes the caterpillars had been identified, too, as this is often the stage in which children discover a butterfly. This is a wider pass than the many books available on monarch butterflies which, here, are only shown in caterpillar stage on a milkweed (if you already know what you're seeing) and on the endpapers. The caterpillar label aside, this book is a pleasant and artful introduction to looking at butterflies, flower attractors, and what's happening right outside your door. 2002, HarperCollins, Ages 5 to 9, $16.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-688-17478-7
ISBN: 0-688-17479-5
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002; Children's Literature; United States.
Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, 2003; National Science Teachers Association; United States
Butterflies: Pollinators and Nectar-Sippers
Adele D. Richardson
Excellent color photographs, many of which have labels or fact boxes, help young scientists learn about the body parts, habitat, life cycle, diet and role that butterflies play in our world. They are pollinators, meaning that they help flowers grow. Kids learn about the major body parts of butterflies, that they are cold-blooded and that they taste with their feet and smell with their antennas. Teachers and homeschoolers will appreciate the hands-on activity at the end of the book that demonstrates the process of pollination. There is also a glossary and pronunciation guide, a short list of additional books (very up-to-date), several Internet sites and an index. Part of "the Wild World of Animals" series. 2001, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, Ages 7 to 9, $18.60. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7368-0824-8
The Butterflies' Promise
Julie Ovenell-Carter
Illustrations by Kitty Macaulay
Milly loves to help her grandpa in the garden. She especially loves all of the butterflies. "Grandpa's flying flowers," she calls them. When Grandpa gets sick and has to move into a nursing facility, Milly is afraid that he will miss his garden. With the help of her parents, she makes sure this doesn't happen. This is a timely story that deals with the realities of aging and the concept of change. Butterflies, gardens, as well as the changing seasons help to demonstrate this aspect of life. Children can watch as Milly learns to cope with her grandpa's illness and the trauma of his move. Bright, lively illustrations accompany the text, and the book ends with a short summary on butterflies. 1999, Annick Press, Ages 5 to 7, $5.95. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 1-55037-566-0
Butterfly and Moth
Paul Whalley
With beautiful photographs and illustrations this is one of the best all round books available for young readers about butterflies and their cousins the moths. Intensively annotated photographs and illustrations make this a very easy read and an excellent means of conveying a lot of information without pages and pages of text. In addition to a general section on butterflies and moths, the lifecycle of the Lepidoptera is explored in depth. This includes a wonderful series of photographs which shows a butterfly emerging from the chrysalis. This is followed by sections about butterflies that live in three geographical regions; temperate butterflies, mountain butterflies, and the exotic tropical butterflies. There is an insightful section about how many species of butterfly are endangered, and an excellent section on how to watch and study butterflies, including what one needs to do to be able to rear butterflies and moths successfully. At the back of the book the reader will find an index of subjects. This is one of the highly successful Dorling Kindersly "Eyewitness" books. 2000, Dorling Kindersley Limited, Ages 5 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-7894-5832-2
Butterfly, Butterfly What Colors Do You See?
Illustrated by Annie Horwood
This board book to help toddlers identify colors features a butterfly that flies through the garden learning about colors. Butterfly herself is a separate butterfly-shaped board book of colors that fits into the main book like a puzzle. As the text takes the reader through the garden identifying white daisies, red roses and yellow buttercups, the toddler is supposed to fit the butterfly into the space provided on each page, then remove it for the next page, and so on. It isn't as easy as it sounds, as butterflies are not simply shaped. Toddlers will probably love it, since they love repetition, but parents will need lots of patience. 2001, Simon & Schuster, Ages 2 to 4, $5.99. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-689-84075-6
 Butterfly House
Eve Bunting
Illustrations by Greg Shed
Bunting's story is filled with warm, wonderful illustrations in gouache on canvas created by Greg Shed. Together they tell the story of a larva's transformation. After a young girl rescues a larva from a hungry bird, her grandfather helps her build a butterfly house so they can observe its transformation. When the butterfly emerges, she sadly lets it free. But every spring thereafter, the butterflies come to her garden. Can it be that the tale of her rescue has passed down through the generations? Bunting raised a butterfly of her own during a local Earth Day celebration, and detailed instructions for raising a butterfly are found on the book's closing page. 1999, Scholastic, Ages 4 and up, $15.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-590-84884-4
Caterpillar's Wish
Mary Murphy
Caterpillar always has to stay behind when her friends Bee and Ladybug fly away. But one day, after sleeping and dreaming in her cocoon, she emerges as Butterfly, and is able to join her friends in flight. Simply told and illustrated with bright, bold, black-outlined designs, this book, with its sturdy pages is designed to withstand small hands, may appeal to very young children. "Toddler Story Book" series. 1999, DK, Ages 2 to 4, $9.95. Reviewer: Linnea Hendrickson
ISBN: 0-7894-2593-9
The Caterpillar That Roared
Michael Lawrence
Illustrated by Alison Bartlett
"Some caterpillars want to be moths when they grow up, and some want to butterflies. But Hugo wanted to be a lion." So begins this tale of a caterpillar that has great, if unrealistic, dreams. When he perfects his roar, stretches himself out, and puffs up his face, he fools his friend Ferdinand the fish into thinking he really is a lion. Ferdinand flees in terror, and Hugo realizes that being a lion is not so great after all. Gorgeous full-page paintings illustrate this tale of self-acceptance. This book is part of the "Share-a-Story" series and includes storytelling tips and activities for parents and children. The suggested activities are to make a caterpillar puppet and a butterfly painting, and to go on a nature hunt. Parents are also given tips about how to dramatize the story for their children. 2000, Dorling Kindersley, Ages 3 to 6, $9.95 and $5.95. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-7894-6351-2
ISBN: 0-7894-5618-4
Caterpillars, Bugs, and Butterflies
Mel Boring
Illustrations by Linda Garrow
Eight caterpillars, eleven bugs, and nine moths and butterflies (five of which are also described in their caterpillar stage) are included in this succinct, introductory identification guide. With one page per insect, the reader will learn what it looks like, what it eats and where to find it. Among the insects are the monarch caterpillar and butterfly, the ladybug, firefly and the field cricket. The full color drawings make identification easy. Three activities are also included and clear directions for what you need and what to do are given. This is part of the "Young Naturalist Field Guides" series. It was originally part of the "Take-along guide" series published by NorthWord Press. The bibliography includes books (all of which are published by Gareth Stevens), videos and web sites. The index is new but provides just slightly more information than the table of contents. 1998 (orig. 1996), Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 9 to 12, $18.60. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-8368-2040-1
Chance and the Butterfly
Maggie de Vries
Illustrated by Cindy Ghent
Chance's third grade class is raising butterflies--fat, green caterpillars for now, soon to be Painted Ladies. Chance is fascinated. He has learned everything he can about them, and he can't wait until his special caterpillar, the one he named Matilda, changes. But Matilda is only part of the story. This is really about Chance, recently arrived in yet another new foster home and school. His new parents are kind and patient enough, but Chance knows that won't last. So what, he thinks, is the point in trying to care back? But in caring for Matilda, he begins caring about others, including himself, which makes all the difference. Chance is a remarkable character, in that he is so recognizable from the outside, and so understandable on the inside. Maggie de Vries treats this troubled little boy with dignity and has a compassionate understanding of the deliberation or impulsiveness behind his actions, and the urgency of his passions and frustrations. Metaphorically speaking, Chance's belligerent, cynical self is the chrysalis from which, like a butterfly, he can and will emerge; and to De Vries credit, we can tell Chance will continue to grow well beyond book's end. 2002, Orca Book Publishers, Ages 7 to 10, $4.99. Reviewer: Wendy Morris
ISBN: 1-55143-208-0
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize Shortlist 2002 Canada
The Crunching Munching Caterpillar
Sheridan Cain
Illustrated by Jack Tickle
Caterpillar is hungry; in fact he always seems to be hungry. He is busy eating away when various creatures visit him. First there is the bumble bee. Then there is a bird, and finally a butterfly stops by. Each of these wonderful animals has something in common. They can all fly and they all make the caterpillar wish that he too could fly. He is told that he is too big and heavy, that he had legs for walking and not wings for flying. Caterpillar wraps himself in a leaf and settles in for a long nap. He dreams that he is flying, that he is "as light as a feather, floating on the breeze." When the warm sun finally wakens him butterfly gives a big stretch and discovers that something wonderful has happened to him. Cheerful brightly colored illustrations and the charm of the wishful caterpillar make this a delightful book to read out loud. We are reminded that we all have a little of the caterpillar in us and that we all can turn into beautiful butterflies. 2000, Tiger Tales, Ages 3 to 6, $15.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 1-58925-025-7
A Dragon In The Sky: The Story of a Green Darner Dragonfly
Laurence Pringle
Illustrated by Bob Marstall
If you think you have had a bad day, you might want to look at the uncertainty of life for the green darner dragonfly. The cycle of one of these fascinating creatures is chronicled from the egg stage in a swamp in western New York to the adult "dragon" stage in Florida. These amazing creatures migrate hundreds of miles and have been known to avoid going over large bodies of water such as Lake Ontario by going around them. Anax, the dragonfly featured, hatched from the egg after three weeks. He then moved on to the nymph stage at a tenth of an inch. Anax hung onto leaves underwater and continued to grow by molting ten more times. With each molt, the young nymph's eyesight became keener and with muscles in his abdomen, he escaped from a giant water bug and other predators. His life continued to be fraught with perils as he avoided becoming a food source. Even as he finally emerged into a magnificent dragon, Anax needed his exceptional eyes and flying skills to avoid hungry birds while making his remarkable journey. Detailed illustrations accompany this incredible book. Instructions for the care of dragonfly nymphs, supplemental reading and web sites will encourage children to further their knowledge about a fascinating insect. 2001, Orchard Books/Scholastic, Ages All, $18.95. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-5313-0315-2
ISBN: 0-5313-3315-9
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2001; Smithsonian; United States
Fabulous Fluttering Tropical Butterflies
Dorothy Hinshaw Patent
Illustrated by Kendahl Jan Jubb
Tropical butterflies are creatures of the environments where they live. In clear and uncomplicated language the lifecycle of the average butterfly is describe in the first few pages. The reader then discovers what makes up the colors of a butterfly's wing, "tiny scales arranged like roofing tiles," the description being so visual in nature that we have no trouble understanding the text. The author then goes on to describe morpho butterflies, which are huge butterflies with extraordinarily bright colored wings. Despite their size and colors, these butterflies can still hide in the undergrowth of a forest and survive an attack of a hungry predator. We learn about the behavior of longwing, swallowtail, birdwing and owl butterflies. The author has taken an extra step in this delightful book by describing butterfly houses and how such places are run. It would have been useful if there had also been a list of butterfly houses that the public could visit. With vivid and brightly colored artwork, the illustrator has succeeded in showing the reader how glorious are the colors of the tropical butterflies. At the back of the book there is an index of the butterflies shown in the book. In addition there is a beautiful map of the world in the front and in the back of the book showing where some of the tropical butterflies come from. 2003, Walker and Company, Ages 6 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-8027-8838-6
Flutter by, Butterfly
Densey Clyne
Perhaps it's because of names like Purple Moonbeam, Monarch, and Tailed Emperor that butterflies seem so different from other bugs. And maybe it's the dual focus on serenity and science that makes this latest entry in the "Nature Close-Ups" series such a delight. The print is large and so are the stunning color photographs. No portion of butterfly life is omitted from the narrative description. The butterfly life cycle is explored as are its life stages, feeding habits, defenses, reproduction, and life span. There's lots of factual information presented here, but the tone is conversational and respectful; and readers of all ages will be informed and charmed. 1998, Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 8 and up, $18.60. Reviewer: Judy Katsh
ISBN: 0-8368-2058-4
Ghost Wings
Barbara M. Joosse
Illustrated by Giselle Potter
When someone you love dies, how can you keep alive your memories of that person? Joose offers a rather complicated answer through the voice of a young Mexican girl, whose beloved grandmother has died. This young narrator and her grandmother have shared many experiences, from the daily activity of making tortillas to such rare moments as being encircled by the monarch butterflies that winter nearby. From Grandmother, she has learned that the butterflies carry the souls of the old ones, and the tickle of a butterfly can bring back the memories of a person no longer living. The narrator experiences this firsthand during the Days of the Dead, when a returning monarch alights on her and memories of Grandmother come flooding back. Information pages at the end of the book provide background about the Days of the Dead and the migration patterns of monarch butterflies, followed by a guide to using the book that offers suggestions for questions and activities to extend the text. Potter's spare, nave-style illustrations include details of the Mexican household and market but contribute a distant feel to the book. 2001, Chronicle Books, Ages 6 to 9, $15.95. Reviewer: Susan Stan
ISBN: 0-8118-2164-1
The Giant Book of Bugs and Creepy Crawlies
Jim Pipe
When we think of bugs and insects, they commonly are pesky but small. This big book features illustrations many times the size of the actual creature and that lets kids get a really good look. There is a spectacular double-page spread that depicts the rain forest home for thousands of bugs, most of which have never been seen. There are sections about beetles, ants and termites, wasps and bees, butterflies and moths, spiders, scorpions and centipedes. Within the pages, the particularly freaky and disgusting creatures are highlighted. Kids will relish the fact that people past and present enjoyed munching on certain kids of insects, which of course are a good source of protein. 1998, Copper Beech, Ages 8 and up, 17.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7613-0648-X
Gotta Go! Gotta Go!
Sam Swope
Illustrations by Sue Riddle
How a creepy crawly little bug fulfills her destiny is captured in this delightful little story. Hatched from an egg, she instinctively knows she's gotta go, gotta go! She must get to Mexico, although she has no idea where that is. After a short sleep, she emerges as a beautiful orange and black butterfly. Always in a hurry, she makes her way over meadows, farms, forest, and rivers until at last she joins her millions of cousins. After laying an egg on a leaf, a new creepy crawly bug emerges and the story comes full circle. The marvelous migration of the monarch butterflies unfolds in this simple rhythmic text that has an engaging lilt. Soft watercolors on crisp white pages flesh out the amazing journey. Pair this with Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar. 2000, Farrar, Ages 4 to 8, $12.00. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey
ISBN: 0-374-32757-2
Good Night, Sweet Butterflies
Dawn Bently
Illustrated by Heather Cahoon
The vivid blue, green, red and yellow cover of this book is riddled with nine butterfly-shaped holes through which may be seen nine colorful, glittering butterfly tablets, each one slightly deeper than the next so that even though they appear consecutively as the pages are turned, from the cover they all seem to be the same size. The text is a poem about little butterflies looking for a place to go to sleep. Each page is illustrated in a different shade of the same color as its glued-on butterfly tablet. The pictures are pretty with frogs and lily-pods, a trickling blue stream under a fading blue sky, an orange fox dreaming in a grove of orange blossoms, and so on until the last page picturing all the colorful butterflies sleeping on flowers under a nighttime sky. 2003, Little Simon, Ages 3 to 6, $10.95. Reviewer: Eleanor Heldrich
ISBN: 0-689-85684-9
How Caterpillars Turn Into Butterflies
Jill Bailey
Vibrant and colorful illustrations and photographs add to the richness of this informative reference book from the series, "Nature's Mysteries." Here, young scientists will find just about everything they need to know about the fascinating life cycles of caterpillars, butterflies, and moths. Well-labeled pictures and diagrams as well as a glossary and a list of books for further reading accompany the informative, readable text. 1999, Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, Ages 9 and up, $15.95. Reviewer: Catherine Campbell Wright
ISBN: 0-7614-0857-6
Insect Metamorphosis from Egg to Adult
Nancy Goor
Photographs by Ron Goor
Insect behaviors are explored via the use of photography to explain metamorphosis, in both complete and incomplete stages. A wide variety of insects commonly found in the United States are captured on film. Science comes alive through butterflies, moths, dragonflies, mosquitoes, and other insect life. Chosen as a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year. Indexed. 1998 (orig. 1990), Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, Ages 7 to 10, $5.99. Reviewer: Emily Ferren
ISBN: 0-689-82196-4
Insectlopedia
Douglas Florian
Short, clever, witty poems catalogued alphabetically provide details about 21 different spiders and insects. Poems like "The Caterpillar" are just one example of how well-written the selections are: "She eats eight leaves at least. . ./Which leaves her like a Faterpillar/Then rents a room inside/a pupa,/And checks out: Madame Butterfly." Unique, thought-provoking illustrations accompany the text. There are some difficult words used, like "aggrieved" and "parasitic," but they are few and provide yet another opportunity to learn. 1998, Harcourt Brace, Ages 6 to 10, $16.00. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0-15-201306-7
Insects
B. Alison Weir
Have you ever wondered what makes a fly buzz or what is under a ladybug's shell? As part of the "What's Inside?" series, this book explores what makes insects tick. From well-known insects like the butterfly to not-so-well-known ones like the stick insect, young readers can become familiar with the creepy crawly creatures they encounter in the world around them. Their behavior, anatomy, and inner workings are all examined. Using large, vivid photographs and diagrams, with bold print, these bugs no longer seem like something to be scared of. This would make a wonderful classroom aid or a nice addition to a home library. 1999 (orig. 1992), DK, Ages 5 to 8, $3.95. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0-7894-4294-9
Insects
Jen Green
Butterfly wings are covered with thousands of tiny, overlapping scales. Each scale is brightly colored, or can reflect light in a way that makes it appear colored. Some butterflies are colored as a warning to their predators that they are poisonous to eat. Other butterflies are harmless, but mimic poisonous species to fool their predators. Readers will feel at home with the "field guide" format of this series, "Young Scientist Concepts and Projects." Photographic illustrations abound on every page. Thirty-two chapters include everything from reproduction to color and camouflage. Project pages are included throughout to give a hands-on approach to learning. An index and glossary are included, as are recommendations for books, videos and web sites. This is an excellent series for the elementary science classroom. 1999, Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 8 to 12, $16.95. Reviewer: Joyce Rice
ISBN: 0-8368-2266-8
Insects Visit Flowers
Elaine Pascoe
Photographs by Dwight Kuhn
Why do bees, beetles, butterflies, and ambush bugs visit flowers? Which ones help flowers? Which ones hurt flowers? Pascoe describes how flowers supply insects with nectar for food and hiding places to catch prey. Insects return the favor by transferring pollen between plants. Clear, bright close-up photos focus on this integral part of the web of life. Two pages of "How & Why" questions have answers supplied so children can check their responses. Suggested activities include tasting different kinds of honey, planting a butterfly garden, and experimenting with colors and scents that might attract different types of insects. A glossary, index, and ideas for further study are also provided. First published in 2000 by Creative Teaching Press, this book carries the Weekly Reader Seal of Approval. Some of the other books in the 12-book "Springboards into Science" series are Animals Prepare for Winter, Animals Hatch from Eggs, Animals Hide, Birds Build Nests, and Seeds Travel. 2002, Gareth Stevens Publishing, Ages 6 to 8, $19.93. Reviewer: Chris Gill
ISBN: 0-8368-3010-5
Katie's Caterpillars
Stephanie Dagg
Pictures by Stephen Hall
Instead of running away from insects and creepy crawlies--Katie is fascinated by them. She loves to watch the caterpillars. When her mom tries to find a pet, Katie wants none of them, but she does decide to use the old fish tank as a home for her caterpillars. She takes them outside and makes sure they have fresh air and fresh leaves to eat, and she just enjoys watching them. When the family heads off on vacation, Katie is distraught to learn that she will not be able to take her pets. A kind neighbor agrees to take over, but when Katie returns they have all entered the chrysalis stage and eventually become butterflies. For someone so interested in these creatures it seems a bit implausible that she would not be aware of the pending metamorphosis. Never fear, Katie's interest now turns to beetles. A simple text filled with black-and-white illustrations creates a sophisticated early reader or chapter book. 2002 (orig. 1998), O'Brien Press, Ages 5 to 8, $4.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-86278-718-1
La Mariposa
Francisco Jimenez
The start of school is very confusing to Francisco: a different language, new faces and a routine he doesn't understand. He suffers from headaches and desires to "fly back" to his Papa in the fields. Francisco's interest is stimulated by what he can understand. He observes a caterpillar that will become a butterfly and draws what he sees around him. He can make no sense of the fact that the biggest boy in class beats him and rips the jacket that the kind principal has given him for warmth. By the story's end, Francisco is involved in class and has earned the understanding and empathy of his classmates. Jimenez weaves Spanish, without translation, through the text. Not only does this more truly represent Francisco's character; it gives English-speaking readers a better understanding of the protagonist's trials. This should be required reading for older elementary children who are meeting students from other cultures. The book was written and illustrated by two men who immigrated and worked in the fields of California. The book's strength reflects their experiences. 1998, Houghton Mifflin, Ages 8 and up, $16.00. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-395-81663-7
Life Cycles: The Butterfly
Diana Noonan
With bright photographs and an easy pace this is an excellent introduction to butterflies. The author explains what an insect is and then discusses various aspects of the lives of butterflies. The reader learns about the colors of butterfly wings and how they can have a role both to confound predators and to find a mate. The lifecycle of the butterfly is then discussed, with photographs illustrating each stage. We see the female butterfly laying her eggs, and the changes that take place as the caterpillar grows in the egg. Then the caterpillar hatches and the author describes the main features of a caterpillar. We learn that a caterpillar has several strategies that it can adopt to protect itself from predators. After growing and molting for some time the caterpillar grows big enough to prepare for the next stage in the lifecycle. Shedding its skin for one last time it turns into a pupa. Finally the pupa splits open and a butterfly emerges. A diagram with photos at the end of the book summarizes the lifecycle of the butterfly very well. There is also a glossary and an index. In the classroom a teacher could have the students draw a diagram which describes the lifecycle or metamorphosis of another type of insect. 2003, Chelsea Clubhouse, Ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-7910-6963-X
Magnificent Monarchs
Linda Glaser
Illustrated by Gay Holland
Through the voice of a child narrator, we learn about a "little and wiggly friend" monarch caterpillar as it lives and grows through the spring and summer. We read about how it forms a chrysalis and transforms into a "magnificent" friend, a monarch butterfly, which will fly south for the winter, but return in the spring to lay eggs and start the cycle anew. Linda Glaser's simple text and Gay Holland's detailed illustrations make the complexities of the familiar creature's life cycle easy to understand. Readers seeking more information-and teachers seeking to answer their students questions-will appreciate the final four pages, which include answers to such questions as, "Are caterpillars a type of worm?" and "How do migrating monarchs find their way?" 2000, Millbrook, Ages 4 to 8, $21.40. Reviewer: Heidi Green
ISBN: 0-7613-1700-7
Malinda Martha Meets Mariposa
Marcia Trimble
Illustrated by John Lund
First of all, Mariposa is the name of the Monarch butterfly. The Monarch is a, beautiful, fascinating and extraordinary insect, capable of migrating hundreds of mils. Unfortunately loss of habitat is threatening the butterfly and we can only hope that the efforts of environmentalists and the public are able to save it. Unfortunately too, this book confuses the wonderful and vibrant story about the lifecycle of the butterfly. From the very beginning it is baffling at best. It begins with sunflowers talking to Malinda Martha as the girl sits in her classroom. She is suddenly transported to her backyard where a stage has been assembled for "Backyard Theatre Auditions." One by one various backyard creatures come onto the stage but are rejected. Each creature is told that there is no role for them. One cannot help but wonder what sort of role in being sought. We read on and find that a Mariposa has been selected. How and why was the butterfly chosen and why is there a theatre in the backyard at all? The story of the Mariposa going from egg to caterpillar, from caterpillar to pupa, and from pupa to adult butterfly is then told. There are confusing conversations between Malinda Martha and the rejected backyard animals that are now in the audience. The theatre idea does not lend anything to the story and only complicates a remarkable event in nature. This book might be useful in the classroom as a guide on staging a play about the lifecycle of the Monarch butterfly. 2000, Images Press, Ages 5 to 7, $7.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 1-891577-58-1
ISBN: 1-891577-57-3
Monarch Magic!: Butterfly Activities & Nature Discoveries
Lynn M. Rosenblatt
This gem of a paperback offers teachers, students, and insect lovers a wealth of information, activities, and resource references about monarch butterflies. The author is an elementary school teacher who clearly understands what kids like knowing about and how they like to learn. There's enjoyment here for learners of a variety of ages, prior knowledge, and style of learning, with special emphasis on making the information personally relevant and meaningful to each individual reader. The information is clearly organized and communicated. The many illustrations, graphics, and photographs are engaging and meaningfully placed and captioned. The different elements of the book-text, activities, resources, environmental impact, arts and crafts-are so well organized and cross-referenced that the book is not only a joy to read cover-to-cover, but is also so easy to use that readers will be tempted to bring it along on their butterfly hunts! A donation to monarch preservation societies is made for each book purchased. 1998, Williamson Publishing, Ages 4 to 12, $12.95. Reviewer: Judy Katsh
ISBN: 1-885593-23-6
Moths and Butterflies
Shane F. McEvey
Delve into the lives of moths and butterflies with this book from the "Insects and Spiders" series. "Fascinating Fact" segments and "Did You Know?" blurbs appear throughout, offering the reader interesting tidbits of information. Short new chapters begin on almost every other page presenting the reader with definitions of moths and butterflies, what they eat, various habitats, their communication styles, and life cycles. Upon finishing this book, the reader will be know that there over "11,000 kind of moths and 400 kinds of butterflies" in Australia alone. One can also learn that scales cover the bodies of moths and butterflies and that the simple motion of picking one up can rub off the scales. Short well labeled sections, and brilliantly bright photographs compliment the book's makeup. With this book and the five others in the series, hours of learning can take place in the classroom or library. In addition to a useful glossary and index, a special feature is the end-of-book quiz page to test the reader on what has been learned. Of course, the answers to the quiz are provided. 2002 (orig. 2001), Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 7 to 11. $16.95. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury
ISBN: 0-7910-6598-7
Best Books:
Best Books for Junior High and Young Adults, 2002; Science Books & Films; United States
Moths and Butterflies of North America
Ilka List
Illustrations by Pedro Julio Gonzalez, Steve Savage, and A. Natacha Pimentel
This book is part of the "Animals in Order" series. It includes a clear explanation of the scientific classification of living things--discussing kingdoms, phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species in very basic terms. Then there is further explanation of the classification of butterflies and moths, giving characteristics of the phylum, class, and order with specific examples in each division. Next, the similarities and differences between butterflies and moths are detailed. The majority of the book gives more information on fifteen particular species of moths and butterflies. Each includes information on the family, genus, species, wingspan, and a common example of the particular butterfly or moth with full-page color photographs. Many of the examples include interesting facts such as the Mourning Cloak butterfly that warms itself by shivering or the Luna moth that never has to eat because it ate enough as a caterpillar to last its entire lifetime! Tips are given on how and where to look for butterflies and moths. This book includes a table of contents, colorful and clear diagrams, a "Words to Know" page, a page of further resources, and an index. The large, beautiful photographs on every page are a delight. This would be a useful supplemental resource for any elementary science curriculum. 2002, Franklin Watts/Scholastic, Ages 8 to 12,$24.00. Reviewer: Maureen Boyle
ISBN: 0-5311-1597-6
Best Books:
Top 10 Animal Series for Youth, 2002; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
My Favorite Colors
The "Baby Einstein "series has been developed to exploit the potential of very young children by exposing them to language, poetry, music and art. This cloth book comes attached to a rattle that also has two mirrors. One spins and the other is fixed. Babies can look at themselves and also enjoy spinning the mirror. The book's focus is color but that may not be obvious. In the first picture, Zebra puts some red splotchs on his canvas, next he adds blue, then two big blobs of yellow and finally some green. What is the result of all of these dabs of color-a beautiful butterfly which is revealed when kids lift the flap. The book is held together with a Velcro tab, but the entire book can be removed and washed. A pretty good combination book and toy at a reasonable price. 2003, Hyperion, Ages 1 to 9 mo, $6.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7868-1904-9
Nature's Friends: Butterflies
Ann Heinrichs
The butterfly is one of nature's most beautiful creatures. In this book the author successfully conveys the wonder that so many of us feel for these colorful animals. The book begins by describing the main physical features of this fascinating group of animals. Butterflies have a simple body plan and are a great introduction to a study of the insects. Their wings, their most lovely feature to human eyes, have many uses, and as we read through this book we find out how they help the butterfly survive in several different ways. An interesting chapter is one which shows the reader what the difference between a butterfly and a moth is. Another original butterfly topic covered is found in a section which describes how butterflies got their exotic names. At the back of the book the reader will find a glossary, a brief description of the butterfly group, and a section called "Did you know?" which is full of interesting little facts. For example, we read that the Queen Alexandra's Birdwing is the rarest butterfly in the world. Following this there is a very useful section on entomology and how a child might become a "junior entomologist" with suggestions on how to study butterflies in the wild. The author has also listed books, websites, and addresses for those who are interested in pursuing a further study into butterflies. This is one of the "Nature's Friends" books published by Compass Point Books. 2003, Compass Point Books, Ages 5 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-7565-0434
Painted Lady Butterflies
Donna Schaffer
Metamorphosis is fascinating, and this early science book for young readers explains the process with a straightforward text accompanied by large, colorful photographs. Kids learn about each stage of the process and they see pictures of the eggs, caterpillar stage, molting process, pupa, chrysalis and finally the adult Painted Lady Butterfly. Most of the difficult words are defined in the Words to Know list, two additional books are listed in the Read More section, and there are addresses for organizations and Internet sites. A short index and one activity round out the book. All in all, a well-done introductory science book. Part of the "Life Cycles" series. 1999, Bridgestone Books, Ages 6 to 8. $14.60, Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7368-0211-8
The Prince of Butterflies
Bruce Coville
Illustrations by John Clapp
Butterflies are truly fascinating, from the way they transform from land-bound caterpillars into glorious winged creatures. The monarch butterfly is especially fascinating for its yearly migration. This beautifully illustrated book wonderfully captures this fascination. Eleven-year-old John Farrington begins a life-long love of monarchs when thousands of them descend on his front lawn one spring. Looking for a new meadow to go to, as their old one was replaced with a mini mall, they ask John for help. Through an amazing series of events, John helps them and even gets to experience what being a butterfly is like. From then on, he never stops watching and learning about monarchs. If you are already a butterfly lover, this is a great book for you collection. And if you are looking for a new fascination, this provides a good start. 2002, Harcourt, Ages 6 up, $16.00. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0-15201-454-3
Read about Insects
Anna Claybourne
What insect stabs its prey before eating it? How do bees "talk" to each other? From bees to butterflies, caterpillars to cockroaches, Read about Insects takes readers into the creepy, crawly and fascinating world of insects and provides the answers to such questions. Six colorful chapters provide information about the types, life cycles, anatomy, survival mechanisms and social habits of a variety of insects. Each chapter combines simple yet scientific text with close-up photos and accurate illustrations. This book is an engaging introduction to the study of insects, providing plenty of material for a basic overview or springboards for further investigation. 2000, Aladdin Books, Ages 8 to 12, $17.90. Reviewer: Leah Hanson
ISBN: 0-7613-1215-3
Spider Kane and the Mystery Under the May-Apple
Mary Pope Osborne
Leon Leafwing, an impulsive young butterfly, lives in the Cottage Garden with his social-climbing mother, Le Mère. Drawn into a plot of deception and intrigue, Leon makes the acquaintance of the star of this mystery series when he investigates the disappearance of a beautiful, gossamer-winged butterfly named Mimi. Spider Kane is an eight-legged cross between Sherlock Holmes and Inspector Clouseau. A retired military hero, world traveler, and jazz clarinetist with a penchant for show tunes, Kane banded together with Hawk and Rosie (who served with him in the Mosquito Wars) to found the Order of the MOTH-Mission: Only To Help. Mimi's disappearance is only a ruse designed to test Leon's mettle. The daring young butterfly passes his initiation test and becomes a member of the secret society dedicated to help those who can't help themselves. A delightful, fast paced page-turner. 1999 (orig. 1992), Stepping Stone/Random House, Ages 8 to 10, $3.99 and $11.99. Reviewer: Ellen R. Braaf
ISBN: 0-679-80855-8
ISBN: 0-679-90855-2
ISBN: 0-679-84174-1
The Things with Wings
Gregory J. Holch
Children's book editor Holch's first novel is an attempt at fantasy filled with many nods to the classics. When Vanessa turns into a giant caterpillar on her twelfth birthday, her friend Newton must feed and nurse her through the pupa stage until she emerges from her cocoon as a flying butterfly. With the flightless Newton in tow, the two then set about solving the mystery which envelops their town of Angel Falls, all the while fleeing the strange lepidopterist who pursues them. Lots of butterfly lore is discussed in the process. 1998, Scholastic, Ages 8 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-590-93501-1
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Eric Carle
One Sunday a very hungry caterpillar hatched. He eats his way through a variety of foods that are boldly and colorfully illustrated. The story progresses with the caterpillar spinning a cocoon and waking up into a butterfly, illustrating one of nature's common but lovely marvels. 1987, Philomel, $18.95, $5.95 and $9.95 (board book). Ages 2 to 5. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0399208534
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1995 Babies and Toddlers United States
California Young Reader Medal Nominee 1976 Primary California
Waiting for Wings
Lois Ehlert
In brief, simple verses and large type, Ehlert traces the life cycle of the butterfly, from egg through caterpillar and chrysalis to glorious emergence and flight to the garden. There they "dip and sip," and find a place to lay their eggs for another cycle. The artist's cut papers, as forecast on the cover, are brilliantly colored in keeping with the subjects of butterflies and flowers. In the beginning, graduated half pages tell the story of the caterpillars on the stems of unchanging flowers. Then large white pages are flooded with Ehlert's interpretations of blossoms and wings. The masses of petals plus the stunning butterfly wing patterns dazzle the eyes. This visual tribute to nature's handiwork is supplemented with facts about butterflies and flowers, plus information about how to grow a butterfly garden. 2001, Harcourt Inc., Ages 3 to 7, $17.00. ReviewerS: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-15-202608-8
Waiting for Wings
Lois Ehlert
A book of unusual shape, 12" high by 10" wide, with the book title running down the forward edge of the cover, this is a book about butterflies, their life cycle, what they eat and how to look for them. Told in simple rhyming couplets, the author who is also the artist has illustrated the various-sized pages with vivid representational images of flowers and leaves, butterfly eggs and caterpillars and, finally, the beautiful butterflies themselves! In the back of the book there are several pages of information about butterflies, including how to plan a garden to attract them. 2001, Harcourt, Ages 3 to 7, $17. Reviewer: Eleanor Heldrich
ISBN: 0-15-202608-8
Waiting for Wings
Lois Ehlert
In brief, simple verses and large type, Ehlert traces the life cycle of the butterfly, from egg through caterpillar and chrysalis to glorious emergence and flight to the garden. There they "dip and sip," and find a place to lay their eggs for another cycle. The artist's cut papers, as forecast on the cover, are brilliantly colored in keeping with the subjects of butterflies and flowers. In the beginning, graduated half pages tell the story of the caterpillars on the stems of unchanging flowers. Then large white pages are flooded with Ehlert's interpretations of blossoms and wings. The masses of petals plus the stunning butterfly wing patterns dazzle the eyes. This visual tribute to nature's handiwork is supplemented with facts about butterflies and flowers, plus information about how to grow a butterfly garden. 2001, Harcourt Inc., Ages 3 to 7, $17.00. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-15-202608-8
When I'm Big
Christine Tagg
Illustrated by Bill Bolton
This large 8 1/2" by 11" pop up book has colorful computer-generated illustrations. All the character bugs and the flowers appear to rise from their backgrounds with interesting effect. Actually, of course, when the pages are turned parts of the illustrations really do rise from the pages. The eight interior double-page spreads are primarily fold and bend pop-ups that, in combination with the computer-produced illustrations, greatly enhance the lift-off. The simple story concerns a caterpiller who wonders what kind of creature he will be when is fully grown. He consults various insects, one of which is a grasshopper with springs on his feet, until he meets a butterfly who knows. This is a charming book with vivid colors and poetic text. 2002, Silver Dolphin Books, Ages 3 to 6, $12.95. Reviewer: Eleanor Heldrich
ISBN: 1-57145-753-4
Where Butterflies Grow
Joanne Ryder
Illustrated by Lynne Cherry
In this lyrical, beautifully illustrated book we are invited to "Imagine" that we are in a tiny egg. Slowly we grow and the egg hatches. Our adventures begin. With each turn of a page we explore the green world of a tiny caterpillar. We see the baby rabbit, the toad, the little mouse washing itself. We hear the wind in the grass and the caterpillar continues to eat and eat. It scares off a hungry bird, and eats some more. Finally it is big enough. Now it is time to build a cocoon and to rest. Inside the cocoon an amazing change is taking place. The creatures of the countryside go about their business, unaware of the little life hanging from a twig. As the summer progresses the cocoon grows darker and there is a flicker of movement. Finally, at last, the cocoon splits and a crumpled long-legged insect emerges. The creature rests, its wings fold out and stiffen, and then the butterfly takes to the air. The author has managed to make a very simple story magical, and the illustrator invites us to explore the changing world of the caterpillar and the butterfly. Perhaps we too should lie on our tummies on a summer day and see what we can find where the butterflies grow. 1996, Econo-Clad Books, Ages 4 to 7, $6.99. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-613-00008-0
Where Did the Butterfly Get Its Name: Questions and Answers About Butterflies and Moths
Melvin and Gilda Berger
Illustrated by Higgins Bond
"Turtles lay eggs - and you get turtles. Alligators lay eggs - and you get alligators. But butterflies lay eggs and what do you get? Caterpillars!" This is a wonderful beginning to a book and it only gets better as you read on. The authors begin with general questions about moths and butterflies. For example we find out what the powder on your fingers is after you touch a butterfly. We also find out how fast these wonderful winged creatures can go. Some can get up to the remarkable speed of 30 miles an hour. The next section is about the fascinating lifecycle of moths and butterflies. Now we find out why butterfly eggs don't hatch into butterflies but hatch into caterpillars. The third section is about how butterflies survive. They are a good food source for other animals and have had to come up with ingenious way to avoid getting eaten. Some opt for camouflage while others adopt scare tactics. The book ends with the question: "Will butterflies and moths live forever on planet earth?" This question is a great lead for a discussion on what we all can do to make sure that this planet is never butterfly-less. At the back of the book there is an index. A glossary would have been a good addition. Beautifully illustrated in full color, this would be an excellent addition to a home, school or library book collection. This book is one of the books in the "Scholastic Question and Answer Series." 2002, Scholastic Inc., Ages 6 to 10, $5.95. Reviewer: Marya Jansen-Gruber
ISBN: 0-439-26675-0
The Wonder of Butterflies
Amy Bauman and E. Jaediker Norsgaard
Illustrations by John F. McGee
Packed with bright illustrations and close-up photographs, this captivating book introduces children to the fascinating world of butterflies. The author uses simple language to explain a butterfly's life cycle, physical characteristics, habitats, eating habits and camouflaging behaviors. This resource introduces youngsters to different species of butterfly-from monarchs and viceroys to black swallowtails and skippers-as well as to a variety of new terms, including metamorphosis, proboscis, migration and predators. The oversized text and graphically rich format make this book an excellent choice for beginning readers. In addition to colorful artwork and interesting facts, this volume also contains a glossary and an index. Part of the "Animal Wonders" series. 2000, Gareth Stevens, Ages 6 to 8, $22.60. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-8368-2662-0
Young Naturalist Guide to Butterflies
Jonathan P. Latimer and Karen Stray Nolting
Illustrations by Amy Bartlett Wright
Who can resist those flighty, paper-like beauties of the garden world-the butterflies? Children have been fascinated since the beginning of time. Here is a pocket-sized edition that helps identify nine species of butterflies, gives the reader a brief history of their origin, what they like to eat and where they roam in their travels. Each species is noted by a few special facts about it. There are photos and illustrations of each butterfly which are very helpful in the identification process. The size of the book is hiking and backpack friendly and features a life list for the reader to track the butterflies that he/she has identified. A great gift for outdoor enthusiasts. 2000, Houghton Mifflin Company, Ages 7 to 12, $15.00 and $5.95. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood
ISBN: 0-395-97943-9
ISBN: 0-395-97944-7
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