From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 3-The first impression one gets of this science book is that it is very attractive. Watercolors done in spring shades rest neatly in precise outlines of lovely butterflies and flowers. Lots of white space and soft, blue-sky backgrounds give a crisp, up-to-date look. But this title is more than just a pretty face. Both an introduction to some common butterfly families and an invitation to plant a butterfly garden, the text, addressed to "you," is lively and clear. Although further reading will be required for anyone seriously planning to attract and study butterflies, this is an encouraging, engaging addition for those looking for insect information and a treat for young gardeners, too.
Ellen Heath, Orchard School, Ridgewood, NJCopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
Gr. 2-4, younger for reading aloud. For a slightly younger audience than her previous garden titles
My Backyard Garden (1998) and
My Indoor Garden (1999), this picture book uses Lerner's winning combination of beautiful, precise, pen-and-watercolor illustrations and simple, clear explanations of science. The engaging text describes how butterflies eat, introduces distinguishing characteristics of a few species, gives a basic overview of the life cycle from caterpillar to butterfly, and describes plants that attract butterflies to the garden. Each spread is dominated by gloriously colored illustrations, all clearly labeled for easy identification. The text presupposes that children are familiar with terms such as
transplanting and will know what to do with seeds, but kids who can't seem to get enough about butterflies, including a few children without access to a garden, will surely find something of interest. Handsome endpapers showcase a variety of species.
Gillian EngbergCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
