Welcome to the Anthill

Stepanka Sekaninova used to work as a TV reporter and in the production of children’sprograms. Now she is a writer and an editor-in-chief, living in the Czech Republic.Linh Dao spent much of her life in Hanoi, Vietnam, where she was born, before moving to the Czech Republic. She studied illustration in Brno and animation in Zlín, where her graduation film earned several international awards. In 2016, she won a prize in the Young Creative category at the ADC Creative Awards. After a stint in corporate life, she returned to freelancing as an illustrator and animator. She lives in Brno, where she survives mainly on potato chips and green tea.

"Gr 2-4–In these imports from the Czech ¬Republic, a cartoon insect describes its world. In lighthearted, conversational language, the narrator addresses readers directly. Though the tone is light, the information is thorough and well organized. The ant host’s comment that “we’re not big fans of the cold,” for example, leads into an interesting factual explanation of how and why ants seal their hills in spring. Key topics, including habitats, food, predators, and life cycles are clearly explained; the personified creatures, cute chapter titles, and word balloons don’t interfere with the reader’s learning experience. Illustrations feature insects with smiley faces and some human accessories, like a violin-playing cricket, but also convey concepts effectively. Uncluttered layouts clearly depict processes, including the steps of butterfly pupation and ladybug metamorphosis. VERDICT Excellent blends of fun and facts that might draw reluctant nonfiction readers." —School Library Journal "This inviting look inside an anthill offers upbeat, informative text aptly supported by pleasingly busy cartoon illustrations of cheerful ants happily toiling away at various tasks. The action begins in the spring, where our guide assures us she’s not just sunbathing. She’s actually absorbing as much heat as possible to take back inside and help warm up the interior of her huge home. Our host drives the narrative as she tours the labyrinth-like structure, stressing the importance of every worker and every task in maintaining the integrity of the nest. She introduces guards, cleaners, builders, repairers, babysitters, tenders, foragers, and, of course, the queen. Most of this all-female workforce is tasked with raising and protecting new generations of workers, prompting discussion of ant life cycles and habitats. There’s plenty of information about aphids, diets, developmental stages, communication, defense, and additional aspects, including how new colonies are formed. The action ends as winter approaches, and the community snuggles down for a long nap. This visually enticing title is sure to be popular—expect requests for repeat readings." —Booklist"Love love love this introduction to the inner workings of an ant hill! The format of explaining ant facts in a way that is easily received, informative, and fun, combined with the illustrations is sure to entice young readers." —Sol Johnson, Quail Ridge Books (Raleigh, NC)