Growing Up Ladybug

Stepanka Sekaninova used to work as a TV reporter and in the production of children's programs. 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 "Looking for an insect’s eye view of the lives of bugs? Check out the Little Heroes series. Aimed at early elementary readers, this whimsical, yet informative series is charmingly illustrated with expressively drawn insects and clear, well-thought-out diagrams. While there is a lot going on on every page, the layout is never too cluttered, with bite-size chunks of information spread throughout the narrative text. Growing up Ladybug is narrated by Mariella, a seven-spot ladybug, one of 5,000 species of ladybugs. Mariella walks readers through many aspects of ladybug life, including courtship, featuring a cutesy illustration of a ladybug bride and groom, and ending with her children’s first hibernation, after which they will be ready for courtships of their own. How to Become a Butterfly is narrated by Amanda, a very hungry caterpillar who guides kids through her metamorphosis and other important milestones in her life. Did you know that butterflies taste through the soles of their feet? Amanda tells readers this and much more. A great school and library resource for backyard explorers and young readers just developing their bug obsession. Recommend these to fans of Yuval Zommer’s Big Book series." —Julie Goldschmied, Booklist"Quirky and illuminating." —Kirkus Reviews "A very informative book that goes through just about whatever questions young readers could have about lady bugs, but without being too overwhelming with text." —Rebecca R., New York Public Library, Librarian