  | If you like butterflies Author: Schaefer, Lola M. | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
An accessible, scientific overview of butterflies for curious young naturalists. From species classification to anatomy, nutrition, metamorphosis, and ecosystems, this thorough insect exploration answers all questions about butterflies in the wild.
| Illustrator: | Swiatkowska, Gabi |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (08/01/25)
School Library Journal (07/01/25)
Booklist (+) (12/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 07/01/2025 K-Gr 3—Butterflies are the topic of this lovely book, which starts with the variety of species. The beautiful images showcase the amazing array of color and shapes of different butterflies. Then the text turns to their life cycle. The images of the eggs are detailed, with each part of the life cycle both described and illustrated. Finally, the text suggests how readers might be able to encourage butterflies to visit their own yards by planting butterfly-friendly plants. The author's notes have extended information about the butterfly life cycle as well as migration. The book also has information about different kinds of butterfly plants, including the difference between nectar and host plants. Back matter includes websites for more information. VERDICT A sweet book about butterflies that is sure to interest and captivate young readers; a good choice for libraries needing new books on the topic.—Debbie Tanner - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 08/01/2025 *Starred Review* This offering on the life cycles of butterflies is a visual knock-out—from its eye-catching, vibrant cover featuring a young girl surrounded by butterflies, to meticulously detailed two-page spreads filled with exotic examples, to satisfying close-ups of various eggs, caterpillars, and pupae. The text is laid out in free form poetry style and flows beautifully, effortlessly weaving together facts and appreciative insights. Each developmental stage is introduced by an invitation to look closely, an explanation of what’s going on, and directions on what to do: “if you find a butterfly egg, / return daily until it begins to change color. / The larva, or caterpillar, is forming.” The perfectly aligned illustrations in water-based ink on hand-pressed paper include young children marveling at each iteration, exploring under leaves and grasses, copying specimens into notebooks, and playing in fields filled with butterflies. The back matter includes references for further exploration, additional information about migration, and fairly detailed directions for planting a butterfly garden. This book is sure to attract browsers and delight bug and butterfly enthusiasts. Even collections seemingly replete with titles about lepidopterans will want to make room for this colorful and engaging celebration of butterflies. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
