Some Bugs. Words by Angela DiTerlizzi, bugs by Brendan Wenzel. Beach Lane Books, 2014. ISBN 978-1-4424-5880-2
Summary: Rhyming, lighthearted text describes the different sorts of bugs that inhabit the small world traversed by a ladybug in her day's journey. She emerges from her home in a downspout and encounters many different insects doing what they do best.
"Some bugs sting. Some bugs bite. Some bugs stink. And some bugs FIGHT!" Not only do the bugs interact with each other, they also react to visits by larger creatures like birds, raccoons, and a curious cat. Ants steal food from a picnic, click bugs click, and roly-poly pill bugs curl up in balls. The friendly ladybug leads the reader through a buzzing, bustling landscape full of insect life, and children will be inspired to take a closer look the next time they go outside.
At the end of the text, the author and illustrator have included a two-page spread featuring every insect included in the book along with its name, which could be extremely useful for young backyard explorers.
Critical Evaluation: With simple, rhyming text and ridiculously delightful insect characters, DiTerlizzi and Wenzel have crafted a charming picture book that is sure to cause a new appreciation for bugs among young readers. The text is written at a level that can be utilized both as a read-aloud for story time, or as a selection for new readers to enjoy.
Wenzel has created a marvelous world of bug personalities with incredibly expressive eyes. There is a joyful silliness in the way they have been drawn, and their movements capture the characteristics of each type of insect going about their typical activities. The colors and textures in the illustrations are cheerful and lush, which add to the happy vibe of the book.
Some Bugs is charming on its first reading, but with so many details to examine on each page, and the variety of comical insect characters to observe, subsequent readings will be just as enchanting.
Age or Interest Level: Ages 2 to 6
Lexile Level: 200L
Awards: ---