A Beetle Is Shy (Aston/Long Nature Books)

Aston and Long follow A Butterfly Is Patient and other collaborations with a poetic examination of the vast insect order of beetles. As in the previous books, brief phrases ("A beetle is kaleidoscopic," "A beetle is colossal") introduce various characteristics, explored in crisp, accessible text that can be both general and species-specific (" [Fireflies]flash their signals to attract a mate, defend their territory, and warn away predators"). Long's watercolors capture the vibrant details of the rainbow stag beetle, dead-nettle leaf beetle, and other striking specimens in a sparkling homage to a diverse category of insect. Ages 5-8. Author's agent: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary Studio. (Apr.)

K-Gr 4—The author/illustrator pair have created yet another colorful and intricate work. The combination of Aston's soft text and Long's watercolors provide readers with an enjoyable insight into the world of beetles. Text presented in a sweeping cursive font introduces a general statement about beetles ("A beetle is telegraphic"), while text rendered in a smaller, nonscript font expands on this trait or ability ("Most beetles send messages to each other using chemicals called pheromones.... Others 'talk' to each other with squeaky, raspy sounds..."). Several illustrations depict the beetle species in their natural environments (a boll weevil munching on a plant), while others juxtapose everyday items with the insect to give a sense of size perspective (the North American featherwing beetle and the eye of a needle). Each species is labeled, and the endpapers feature an illustrated free-form list of all the beetles pictured. The only thing that could make this book better would be a glossary of the beetles with additional information for the curious child.