Book Description

From A to Z, an alphabet of everyone's favorite bugs that makes learning fun. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

This is the only book my son will actually look at!
I have several of David Carters books and LOVE them. No other books will hold my 10 month old sons attention. When we finish reading all of them, he always wants to read them again. I highly recommend these books to any parent searching for something that their kids will actually look at and learn from.

From a mom of book-loving toddlers: this is a classic.
Most pop-up books are curiosities that don't really work as books to read...this one does! Funny words, fresh images, and 26 totally different pop-up creations. (That's 2-3 times the number of pop-up pages in most books.) You can really spend a while with it. I'd rank Alpha Bugs right up there with Dr. Seuss ABCs as the most engaging and entertaining ABC books. My 2-year old loves, loves, loves it.

Warning: Highly Addictive!
My 1-year-old loves this book so much that I have to hide it from her after I've read it several times in a row. She cries when we put it down and shrieks with joy when we take it out. About half of the pop-ups are simple enough for her to do on her own. However, she has to "read" the book under supervision or else she'd accidentally pull it apart.

Alpha Bugs
Alpha Bugs is fun alphabet pop-up book. My only complaint is that even though the pop-ups are pretty simple, they are not very sturdy.

Absolutely Adorable!
My 16 month old son loves this book! The pictures are really cute and imaginative although many do not really resemble bugs. All in all a fun book but not destined to be loved forever since there is no story. ... Read more

Book Description

David Kirk's vibrant new picture book takes us back in time to the very first day of Miss Spider's life. With brothers and sisters scooting all around, she pops out of her egg. But where is Miss Spider's mother? Kind and caring Betty the Beetle gladly takes on the role. Written in simple rhyming verse, this heartwarming adoption story is sure to please Miss Spider's many fans. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Wonderful message for children and adults
As a mother of 6 children, 4 biological and 2 adopted as toddlers, I feel this book presents a powerful message about seeking and finding love and acceptance in non-conventional places. I have been searching for books for our 5 year old adopted daughter that reinforce the fact that her adoptive Mommy and Daddy truly love her and will care for her even though she "grew in her other Mommy's tummy". Because my daughter is Hispanic and my husband and I are not, the subtle issue of the differences between the beetle and the spider were not lost on her. The first time we finished reading "Little Miss Spider" together, she threw her arms around my neck and with tears brimming in her eyes declared, "You're my favorite Mommy forever and ever!" What more could any parent ask for? My biological 11 year old daughter says to tell you that she loves "Little Miss Spider", too!

A Love of David Kirk
I have been turned on to David Kirk since the birth of my youngest son who is now 2. Jake was given "Miss Spiders Tea Party" for his second birhday and we have both fallen madly in love with Miss Spider and David Kirk's exquisite illustrations. Little Miss Spider was a book I purchased just to complete Jake's set of books by this author and I do believe I love it the best. Little Miss Spider touches the emotions of any mother,adoptive mother, grandmother, aunt etc.. It shows the real meaning in being a mother and what makes you a mother. The first time I sat and read it with my husband I cried. It is the sweetest story of finding your mother I have ever read. The illustrations are fabulous as usual for David Kirk. I truely loved the feeling I got from reading it. Enjoy!

Fantastic Story
"Little Miss Spider" by David Kirk is often requested when I volunteer to read with the children at my local library. They love the storyline and that the simple lines rhyme and are easy to recite.

I've read other reviewers saying that they were uncomfortable with the aspect of the book that Little Miss Spider does not end up finding her birth mother by the end of the book. In the many times that I've read this book to groups of children, they always feel the story has a happy ending. Little Miss Spider loves Betty the Beetle and Betty loves Miss Spider. They have found each other and have become family.

This story helps children who are adopted feel accepted. It may also be some children's first introduction to the idea of adoption and can give them an understanding of some of their friends' families. It's just an all around heart warming story.

I highly recommend this wonderful book.

A cute book
I checked this book out from the public library for my 18 mo. old son. We read together all the time, and one of his favorite stories/rhymes is "The Itsy Bitsy Spider", so of course when I saw this book, I just had to get. This is the first book we have read by this author and we loved it! My son made me read it twice the first night. He usually rushes me through stories, but sat patiently through this one. It is short and sweet to keep a little one's attention and the pictures are great! The pages are also sturdy enough to withstand the not-so-gentle page turning of toddlers. I will definitely be purchasing this book and other "Miss Spider" books.

The best book!
I picked up this book because of the beautiful pictures...I was delighted when my two month old loved it too! She sits on my lap and giggles and grabs for the pages as I read the wonderful and rythmic story. She does not do this for ANY other book (including the "classic" baby books)...it even makes her smile during those fussy periods. Its just the right length too! The other LITTLE MISS SPIDER (not to be confused with Miss Spider) are equally as charming and fun. ... Read more

Book Description

Children all over the world have grown up with Eric Carle and his "very" books. Now, for the first time, three of these classic board books are together in their own little library! Packaged in a beautiful slipcase, the timeless The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Lonely Firefly, and The Very Busy Spider make a collection essential for every new baby, and every child beginning the road to reading. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A really great buy
Of course, these Eric Carle books are gems. Each story is fun because they are interactive. Lights flash at the end of Very Lonely Firefly, and the intricate paging of Very Hungry Caterpillar are great for baby and toddler fingers. But try and buy these seperately, and I'm telling you that you just can not beat the price of this boxed set. It is a great, great, deal. This makes a perfect gift for a baby shower, or birthday. Since the books are the board edition you know that they will last a while too. ... Read more

Book Description

Four million wasps invade Itching Down, so the villagers make a giant jam sandwich to trap them. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A Childhood Favorite
This book was one of my absolute favorites as a child. The rhyming verse makes it very fun to read aloud. The story is just fascinating to young children. I'll have to buy a new copy to replace the tattered one from my childhood! I was very relieved to find that it was still in print, it really is a wonderful children's book.

Wonderful pictures and delightful tale
This is an excellent bedtime story to read to your children. The art work is fascinating and each time the book is read a new facet can be discovered. The townspeople in the story band together to rid the town of stinging insects. A delightful solution is found. My children begged for this story to be read to them again and again. Guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Still my favorite after 34 years
My brother got this book as part of the Weekly Reader Book Club books in the early 70s. From the first time my parents read the book to me, it was my favorite. Now I have 2 kids of my own and I still consider it my favorite children's book. When we spend the night at my parents, I start reading this book to my kids at bedtime and before I know it my parents are sitting on the edge of the bed listening too. It is a must have.

The Giant Jam Sandwich
I rate this book about a four. I think that children would probably have to be about 6 to read this book, because they would have to be a little bit older to understand it. It teaches children how to work with others, and that is one of the most important things to teach a kid. This book is actually good for a childrens book.

Fun for kids and adults
To battle a wasp invasion, the villagers of Itching Down create a 4-story-high loaf of bread and slice it to make a giant jam sandwich -- a monster wasp trap. The story is told in rollicking rhyme, and children ask for it to be read again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Cute, but not too comprehensive
I ordered this for my sons fifth birthday and while I found it cute, it is just okay for identifying caterpillars as it is not very comprehensive. Our childrens librarian recommended: Peterson First Guides: Caterpillars by Amt Bartlett Wright and that has been much more helpful for identifying many more species of caterpillars, butterflies and moths. We live in Northern Indiana and many of the caterpillars we have found have not been in this book but in the Peterson's book. My son loves it, though.

Excellent learning tool.
I purchased 5 books of this series for my five year old daughter for Christmas, as she wanted a "field guide" like her older sisters when exploring our 45 acres of woods. After reviewing these books before giving them, we decided to use them as part of our science program for our home school. These books have bright and colorful pictures, short accurate explanations of the animal, their habitat, eating habits, and even some of the popular anecdotes that go along with the animal. (For example, the myth about the stripes on the wooly bear caterpillar in relation to the length of winter) It has the appropriate warning for studying certain animals. What we enjoy most is that many of these animals can be found in our back yard to furthur study. Each book deals with three types of animal, such as Caterpillars,Bugs, and Butterflies. They are separated into sections dealing with each type. At the end of the section is a wonderful hands-on project the child can basically do on their own within the recommended age group (9-12) or with some assistance for a younger age group like my daughter. My 5 year old begs us to read these books to her and loves the projects. I highly recommend this book and others in the series for those who want their children to learn about nature and how to respect it.

Great for educators!!
This book helps you find and identify caterpillars, bugs, butterflies, and moths. A great informational book!! ... Read more

Book Description

A brightly colored finger puppet attached to each book peeks out from every spread. Sure to make a little one smile. ... Read more

Book Description

Amazon.com

Whether she's sipping nectar from beautiful flowers, avoiding hungrybirds and fish, dancing with a butterfly, or bravely protecting her entire hivefrom a big bear with an even bigger appetite, this honeybee is always on themove. Eric Carle's updated classic features truly inspired feats of paperengineering, including a galloping bear and a spectacular butterfly that looksas if it will take off at any moment. There's not a gratuitous pop-up, flap, ormovable piece of art in the book; readers will gasp with delight at every page,with every reading. The charming story is still a showcase for Carle'sdistinctive collages, in delectable golds, earthy greens, shimmering blues, andwarm browns. This version is smaller than the original, and the text has beenrevised slightly, with younger readers in mind. A clever new interactive coverallows children to make the villain bear's eyes cross as the angry looking beestings his nose.

Carle's bold, appealing style is known and loved by happy readers everywhere,who return again and again to TheVery Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Quiet Cricket, The Grouchy Ladybug, and hismany other very popular titles. (Preschool) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

THE KING OF COLORFUL COLLAGE DOES IT AGAIN!
Eric Carle, the king of colorful collage, has been delighting young readers for sometime now. This sturdy board book reissue of his 1981 classic is simply another jewel in his crown.

Bug-eyed, red nosed and eager, a honeybee exhorts her neighbors to go out and gather nectar. Pull a tab, and you'll see her fly. Another tab opens flower petals so the bees can sip nectar.

She's a swift honeybee, this one, as her tab-told story unfolds - she escapes a bird, a fish, and a frog to play with a vibrant winged pop-up butterfly.

But once she returns to her hive she hears a frightening noise. She thinks it must be a robber. What kind of a robber would try to steal their honey? What can the bees do to defend themselves. Pull some more tabs, and you'll see.!

Easy for young hands, a delight for young eyes, and a smile for the young at heart.

A wonderful interactive addition to our Eric Carle library.
My children and I always anxiously await any new addition to our Eric Carle library. It's hard to believe that our next book will meet our high expectations, but they always do. The honeybee and the Robber was a new angle to his interactive collection which we thoroughly enjoyed. My children had plenty of opportunity to share the moving pictures and read the book over and over.The beauty of this book is that the children enjoy "reading" it to themselves using the moving parts to stir their imagination ... Read more

Amazon.com

A hilarious introduction to the insect world, On Beyond Bugs will have your preschooler giggling away while learning all kinds of interesting entomology facts. Answering questions like "why do flies buzz?" and "how do bees communicate?" in the musical rhymes long associated with him, Cat in the Hat makes a delightful tour guide. Who else could manage "ants are so strong they can lift things that weigh over ten times their weight and they do it each day?" The sturdy, easy-to-clean-cover makes this book a good choice even for very young children. For those just beginning to read, the phonics-based repetitions are a big help. (Preschool to early reader) --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Fun!
I bought this book for my 4-year old son and he loves it! My husband and I love reading it to him and his baby sister who often also listens along. The book is educational yet great fun to read with its rhyming and fun verses. It teaches without being heavy-handed and even taught us, the parents, a thing or two we didn't know about the insect world! We all enjoy this book tremendously and love the other Cat in the Hat Learning series books as well.

Insects thank Cat in the Hat for good PR
I got this book for a 4 yr old daughter of a friend and she's now intrigued by the insect world. Personally I love how the bumble bee illustration has taught her about how bees communicate through the bumble bee "dance." On the whole, it's nicely educational on an introductory level -- general facts/concepts are taught through illustrations and rhyme. Great for the young ones. Another favorite of mine is the Dr. Seuss Great Big Flap Book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"One day many years ago, as I was looking through a microscope at atropical moth, to my surprise I noticed a tiny, perfect letter Fhidden on the wing. I was astounded and wondered if I could find other letters. Perhaps I could even find the entire alphabet in the wings of butterflies and moths! I decided that I was going to be the first to try."

So wrote Kjell B. Sandved in his introduction to The Butterfly Alphabet. Little did he know that it would take him more than 25 years, with visits to more than 30 countries, to discover and photograph all the letters of the alphabet in butterfly wings. This glorious book is the fruit of his labors. On each spread, you'll find a picture of the whole butterfly or moth and its common name, with a full-page, full-color close-up on theadjacent pageof the letter on the creature's tiny wing scales. A gentle poem accompanies the flight from A to Z as well: "On wingsaloft acrossthe skies-- / An alphabet of butterflies. / Each butterfly in secret brings / A letter hidden in its wings." A few butterfly basics and a glossary of the species featured in the book close this fascinating, loving, photographic ode to the order Lepidoptera. (Ages 4 to 104) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Much more than an alphabet book; truly for butterfly lovers
I first thought this book was an alphabet book for young children, such as to help teach them the alphabet. This is more like a book that would be kept on a coffee table by an adult that adores butterflies. I still love it despite my misconception!

This is an amazing work. The author is actually a nature photographer who accidentially noticed that some patterns on butterfly's wings are shaped like letters of the English alphabet while looking at the wings under a microscope. He then took very close photographs of the "letters". He then went around the world hoping to find each of the 26 letters in our alphabet; this journey took 25 years. Now that is a labor of love!

The end result is this: on the left side of the page is a full color photo of the entire butterfly. One sentence describing butterflies with one of the words beginning with that letter of the alphabet is written in very poetic language that would be most appreciated by adults or anyone who enjoys poetry. Note that the featured letter is written in capital only and in script style so this is of no use to preschoolers who need to see both capital and lower case letters in PRINT. The name of the butterfly is then given. On the right side of the page is a huge photograph of the close up that shows the pattern on the wings that looks just like the featured letter of the alphabet.

Incredible! Interesting!

This would be of interest to anyone who is interested in butterflies. Possibly a good tool to show when introducing microscopes and what they can reveal and also when teaching about butterflies and science/nature.

Butterflies!
This is a beautiful work for anyone who loves butterflies. I often pick it up and browse its pages, admiring the beauty in nature. It can be read and reread numerous times. The photographs are wonderful, and the idea is ingenious! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This Book is WONDERFUL!!!!!
This is a wonderful book! I bought this book for my 1 1/2 year old daughter and when I opened it, I mean actually sitting down and paying attention, I was in love with this book as well as my daughter! The illustrations are wonderful and the colors are dreamy!. This book is exciting and colorful enough to keep your child interested and children learn in a fun way how Caterpillars become Butterflies! There are so many words to explain how wonderful this book is but I dont have room. it's well worth the money!

Babies and Toddlers will Love this Book!
This is such a cool book! When you open the first page the caterpillar (which looks like a slinky with green cloth covering it) comes out and as you turn the pages he stays a caterpillar until the very last page when you turn the page the caterpillar disappears and out pops a beautiful butterfly! ... Read more

Book Description

For many children, "icky" bugs are endlessly fascinating. This book helps children discover why farmers like the praying mantis, how the water spider breathes underwater, and other intriguing facts about the world of bugs and insects.

Jerry Pallotta's lighthearted text and Ralph Masiello's vivid illustrations make this alphabetical exploration of small animal life both fun and informative. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

my son loves it!
I bought this book for my son for his 4th birthday (he helped pick it out) and it is one of his favorite books. He has had it less than 6 months and can tell you what every bug is and something about it. If you have a bug lover its a great book.

Great nonfiction book on insects and arachnids
This book was fantastic. It had a great deal of interesting information about 26 different bugs. The text was still simple enough for children of all ages to enjoy. My preschoolers loved it! ... Read more

Book Description

When Billy left his pet spider, Helen, at the Zoo, the animals suddenly became happy and contented. The lions snoozed all day long, the elephants enjoyed their baths, and the zebras ate their hay in peace -- all because Helen was spinning webs and catching flies.

But one day Helen's webs were swept away. The Keeper had the cages cleaned for the Mayor's inspection tour. Soon the flies were back again and the animals were miserable once more. But not for long...

Children will be fascinated and amused by the way Helen solved the problem and won a permanent place of honor for herself in the Zoo.

Margaret Bloy Graham's pictures match the wit and charm of her delightful story.

Reviews (5)

Super book!
A cute story about a spider named Helen who goes to live at the zoo. I loved this book because it shows how the creatures that some people tend not to like - spiders for instance - are often very helpful! We are big bug lovers here (we have many species as pets) and this was a story that touched our hearts. You'll want to get this for anyone who loves bugs. Even better, get it for someone who wants to stomp on them to give them a better perspective!

A Lifelong Lesson
I remember reading this book to my daughters who are now in their late 20's and early 30's! I've enjoy remembering how helpful Helen and her children were to those around them. I see myself now, even, trying not to harm a spider or their magnificent webs on the front porch or a bedding plant in the garden. My grandson enjoyed watching the web grow and grow last summer on our front porch and was disappointed when a storm destroyed it. :^(

Very useful book
I really liked this book because it really helps people understand what most people do not understand, the spider. It shows people that spiders can be useful and should not be harmed. I thought it was really great when the people in the zoo and the zookeeper found out that it was Helen that were keeping the animals healthy and made the rule to be nice to spiders.

Childhood Favorite
This book was a childhood favorite, after 30 years the story of the spider and all the good he did for the zoo has stuck with me. It has all the elements to keep a child interested and to teach good valuable lessons. It is easy reading for a child, I think both boys and girls will enjoy it.

My favorite children's book ever!!!!!!!
This book taught me to not be afraid of spiders and it is such a good book for kids. A little boy gives his spider to the zoo because the apartment he is moving to doesn't allow pets. Next you will read about all the things that happen to his spider in the zoo. All in all, a great children's book. ... Read more

Book Description

Shaoey & Dot: Bug Meets Bundle is an endearing tale told from the point of view of one little ladybug, Dot, who happens upon a mysterious bundle one sunny day. Dot stays with the little bundle as she is carried to the place where babies come to be found and promises to stay with the little one throughout her journeys toward getting a family. Written by Christian music artist Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth, this heartwarming tale is inspired by the true story of their adoption of three little girls from China and is a story of hope and faith for all families who have been blessed by a lost little bundle of love.

Book Description

With its intriguing bug's-eye view of the world, this new series offers preschoolers a unique perspective on the life cycles and environments of some familiar backyard creatures. In each book, the initial question -- Are you a snail?...Are you a ladybug? -- is followed by a series of simple sentences that help children appreciate the differences between themselves and a particular small animal. Realistic, detailed art and informative, easy-to-read texts make these stories perfect for reading aloud."Slowly, slowly, slowly, your color grows stronger.Your black dots appear. Congratulations,you're a ladybug!" ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A reader-friendly book packed with fun and content
This book has it all--engaging, not too complicated text, GREAT illustrations and a lots of good science content. I have a huge collection of pre-school, early elem. books on insects, but none of them cover the type of metamorphosis that the lady beetle goes through, with the larvae looking totally different than the adult, and the pupae looking . . . well not like a butterfly cocoon, that's for sure, just a spotted lump! I was conducting a class for middle school teachers and we found a lady beetle pupa on a leaf and I thought in might be a gall. Luckily my book order for the early elementary class came in and I noticed the picture in the "Are You a Ladybug" book that explained what we had found. That's a pretty good endorsement for a pre-school book, that it can teach a middle school science class new information! Also, this book is very usefull to teach about how insect predators help control pest populations, since the beetles in the book eat aphids and more aphids. Again, this type of information is not often found in pre-school level books. I bought the grasshopper book too, and I like these books so much I am ordering the whole series!

And you thought your kids weren't interested in science!
This book disguises the science, not sugar-coating it, but presenting it in plain kid-speak, inviting them to enter the world of the ladybug in a humourous and engaging way.

Amazon seems to have rated this book at preschool level, but for its hard-core insect trivia, I'd recommend it for any bug-lovers five and up, and their parents who LOVE finding read-aloud books that the whole family can laugh and learn from.

Great introduction to metamorphosis
An excellent book that introduces children to the idea of metamorphosis while keeping their attention. Many people do not recognize the immature stage of the ladybug but this book treats it with humor -- when the eggs hatch, "you might think you have all made a big mistake" because of course immatures look nothing like adult ladybird beetles.

A great book for primary school science.

Have a taste for aphids?
If so, maybe you are a ladybug. The authors trace a ladybug's life from egg to maturity. Good information for primary grade insect reports. Large print and illustrations on lots of white space. The illustrator does much better with the ladybugs than the big-mouthed people featured at the end. ... Read more

Book Description

Nothing fascinates children more than bugs!Vibrant paper collages illustrate spotted ladybugs, butterflies that flutter, and many more.The book includes an actual size buy chart and a "bug-o-meter" which lists the basics about each featured species.(Selected as Outstanding by Parent Council) ... Read more

Reviews (5)

My daughte LOVES this book!
My daughter is 14 months old and she absolutely loves this book. She pages through it over and over again. We have a pile of about 20 books for her to "read" and this is always the first book she grabs. She points to the bugs and we say the name and then she'll turn the page and continue. She loves the bright color pages. I just wish it came in board book version, because she's wearing out the pages. She is just one, so she's a little rough on paper pages. ;) I love the page in the back that teaches you about the insects.

Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!
If you are a parent of a younger child looking for an educational book on bugs you should check out "Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!" by Bob Barner. When finding a book for very young children there are many things to look at, such as the use of bright colors to catch their attention, thick pages that won't tear easily, and large, easy-to-read typeface. "Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!" accomplishes all of these.
When it comes to the pictures, he has the bright colors and uses collages to add texture and realism to the illustrations. He uses pictures that are more like cartoons than reality so the kids will not be afraid of the featured insects. He puts these pictures on thick paper that will not tear easily so the kids don't destroy the book too quickly. At the end of the book there is a "Bug-O-Meter" that can help kids identify bugs and possibly help them learn to use tables and graphs. He also tells the reader little things about the different bugs to help kids learn the differences between the featured "bugs".
The way the author uses words is engrossing, with the words scrolling across the pages, leading the reader through the illustrations. The sparse wording may help children learn to spell. The wording is also contrasting to the colors of the illustrations and creates a dimension of words that can be taken apart from the illustrations. We reccommend it to parents of young toddlers.

A Best Loved Book
My daughter is 2 and 2 months and she loves this book because
of the great colors, simple but meaningful language, and because she can associate the words and pictures with real bugs she sees in our garden. Each time she wants to read it, she asks to have it read to her at least 4 times in a row. A great introduction to reading book.

Color, Fantasy, and Science
I think this is a great book for children from birth to age 6 or 7. The illustrations are wild and wacky collages, showing insects with anatomical accuracy but also cartoonish personality.

Eight insects are each described in rhyming phrases. At the end there is a page showing all the bugs in their actual size, and then there is a chart that lists the bugs and compares their characteristics (where does it live, how many legs, etc.) These pages add a "multi-media" aspect that keeps kids interested.

The thing I like most about this book is that although the text is sweet and melodic, it has scientific content. Each phrase describes a real aspect of the insect (A long line of ants that work so much, Roly-poly bugs that curl up when I touch). The book also introduces pictoral and graph comparisons and the idea of taxonomy in a fun way, preparing kids for further studies in science.

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs!!!
I purchased this book when my son was only 6 months old, since then, he is now a year old, I have had to "contact-paper" the pages, it's been read, and chewed on so often. This is a fabulous book for teaching children that bugs aren't all bad, and my son loves the bright, fun illustrations. Bob Barner has done a wonderful job of showing children where to find the different insects, whether they crawl or fly, and even what size they are in real-life. I know that as my son gets older and is able to "understand" what I'm reading him, he'll love to go investigating in the garden to find the various critters. Oh joy! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Perfect tale for young and old of the power of true love...
Longer than most of the Miss Spider books, this is a lovely tale that reinforces the value of true love - it's not about appearances, but the unique qualities that make one soul respond to another. I thought it might be a little over my two year old daughter's head, but from the first night I read it, she was clamoring to "hear it again!" The rhyming text and gorgeous illustrations make this book a treat for eyes and ears. I am seriously thinking of giving this book as a wedding ag gift to every couple I know!

A gorgeously illustrated quirky tale of insect romance

Brilliantly-colored illustrations jump from the pages of this charming book. The story is surprisingly adult, however.

Miss Spider is rescued from the poisonous clutches of a blonde-coiffed arachnid lothario by her true (and a bit nerdy) love. Ages 6-9 are probably the best audience for this tomboyish little romance.

In a special-interest side note: Graphic designers and lovers of computer-generated illustrations will probably want to have this particular story book in their collections

Adult Reader Gives Three Thumbs Up
This book MIGHT not be suitable for little kids. I would share it with my own, but each parent should read this book for him/herself first to make that decision, before sharing it with the little ones.

Even if you think the topic is a little too sensitive for your kids at this time, I recommend holding onto it until your little ones are ready -- or just buying a copy for yoursef. Because this book is excellent in all regards. It is well written, the plot is clear and funny, and the illustrations are...well, absolutely stunning. I picked this book up for myself. Once in a while, I will sit down, and literally put my fingers on the pictures. They are works of art. I like to read sections aloud, because the rhyming structure is so pleasing to the tongue.

There are very few children's books that still hold my attention. In fact, I would say that this book is a keeper for all ages. And when you decide your little one is old enough for the contents, I am sure he/she/they will delight in this superb book.

Not A Children's Book
I fell in love with the art work of the Miss Spider books and bought a few for my son. When we saw this book at the library I figured it was another good book in the series. I was wrong. The content of this book is definately not aimed at children. It hints at intimacy that young children don't need to be exposed to and some of the pictures are rather scary. I stopped halfway through the book, noticing some of the pictures. They could very likely give a child nightmares. Children do not need to be exposed to this content and violence depicted in the story. Let's keep them young a little while longer yet please.

Beautiful Pictures, Tongue in Cheek Wit, for Adults too!
--.--.-
This gorgeously illustrated book is only a medium favorite with the kids, but its MY favorite to read aloud.
The illustrations are intricate, gorgeous and as gently satirical and rich as the text. The children can certainly enjoy the basic story of Miss Spider's search for a suitable mate, but only adults will appreciate the tongue in cheek humor as the insect world is revealed to have many social similarities with our own. If the insect world had a "Jane Austen" it would be Miss Spider.
There is a happy ending as usual with children's stories, but there was one page of conflict that the girls (at ages 6 & 7) found "scary"- I was initially surprised, but its true that all the kids I've read this to (ages 5-8) found the big dramatic moment (Miss Spider's suitor turns out to be a little too pushy) a little intense.
The dashing (yet meek and mild) hero soon sets things right, however and the kids all enjoy the pictures of the wedding preparations. This one is not for easily frightened kids, although I originally thought it was unlikely to frighten anyone.

This book is really for adults to enjoy on an entirely different level while children are entertained by the beautiful pictures and happy resolution. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

The Jazz Fly
This book includes an audio CD tucked into the front cover -- the story accompanied by music. My kids (ages 6 and 2) encountered the audio version before they saw the book, and loved it. It's got an excitement and rhythm that makes them both dance. The words are fun and easy to memorize, although the kids remain tickled that Dad can't get the scat lines straight. Za baza boo zaba . . . The book adds really fun visuals to the mix. Like the jazz-drumming fly in this book, the CD and book combo "put it all together and served it out hot."

The Jazz Fly is a real Za-ba do-da roni!
I am a teacher in a 3/4 combo class of English Language Learners (native Spanish speakers). I also have 5 year old triplet girls at home. I was fortunate enough to see Matthew Gollub speaking at a teacher's convention and was really enthralled with his animated way of getting the audience in. I ended up buying three of his books. The Jazz Fly was a big hit with my own children. They loved the version I read (although I can't do it justice) and the version on the CD by Mr. Gollub. I can't wait to use this book in my classroom for my music unit!

It's not just for older kids!
I thought my husband was crazy when he ordered this book. Our 2 boys are 3 and 2, and I thought they were just too young for it. As a band director, he's always introducing the kids to every aspect of music. There's a lot of books to introduce children's songs and classical music, but this is the first one we've found on Jazz. The boys have asked for this book every night since we got it (about 1 month ago). They take turns being the different characters and playing their respective instruments. It's so catchy, I find myself singing the words quite often throughout the day.

It's a great book
This book really is awesome. I first read it at school with the CD, and now I love jazz!

My 4 1/2 year old daughter loves this story!!
When my daughter's rhythm and drum teacher read this story aloud during class one morning, my daughter became enthralled with the plight of the jazz fly. She sang the scats all afternoon and event taught them to her older sister. "Za-baza-boo-zaba-zee-za-roni" is something I've come to adore. (Especially when "scatted" by a 4 year old!) Hilarious fun for anyone who loves music!! ... Read more

Book Description

Hup, two, three, four! We're in the 25th Army Corps. Queen's count! Two, three! We are the marching infantry! Poor Joe! He wants to march in the parade, but every time the lines are uneven, he must stand aside. What's a poor bug to do? Joe is determined. He studies the problem, relining the twenty-five bugs in his squadron from two lines to three lines to four lines, until inspiration and fortitude result in five lines of five -- and Joe fits in the last. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

It can be read again and again
I read this book to my seven year old nephew and he loved it. He wants me to read the book to him everytime I see him! He even asked if he could take it to school with him. I thought that the way it was worded made it enjoyable for me as much as it was for him. I'm not sure that he totally understood the idea of math in the story but hopefully when he starts working with remainders he will recall this book.

Pima Community College Student
Math 146

disappointing
We loved "One Hundred Hungry Ants", written and illustrated by the same team, but "A Remainder of One" is flawed by having language that is more advanced than the mathematical skill it is intended to teach. I would recommend it for a child who is advanced enough in language to have no problems with the meanings of words such as "former", and "infantry", and yet slow enough in math to need the lesson that 25 leaves a remainder of one when divided by 2, 3, or 4, but not 5. I spent more time explaining to my six-year-old child that the sergeant is Joe's boss, and that "former" means what he used to be but no longer is, than I spent on reading the book! The attractive block-print illustrations lack the clever jokes of those found in "One Hundred Hungry Ants", as well.

Great curriculum opportunity!
This book was an awesome resource for teaching my third graders about division! They enjoyed almost as much as I did. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sunny Patch School
Was the best place to go
To study the lessons
All bugs ought to know.
When the first day of school arrives, Little Miss Spider is almost besideherself with excitement. She gobbles her breakfast ("a fresh flower plate") andruns all the way to Sunny Patch School. But poor Miss Spider is in for a day offrustration. She can't seem to master the new lessons: dung digging, leafdrilling, stinging, or flying. As the day draws to a close, Miss Spider bemoansher lack of skills. Isn't there anything she can do well? We are all soonto find out...

David Kirk's bestselling Miss Spider series, including Miss Spider's Tea Party andMiss Spider's New Car,blasts the reader with brilliant splashes of color and quirky, bug-eyed (no,really!) insect characters. In this second adventure of the spinoff Little MissSpider series, Kirk's droll verses harmonize with the shiny, eye-catchingpaintings for a heartwarming tale, sure to be a favorite with Miss Spider'sever-increasing entourage of fans--especially those getting ready fortheir first day of school! (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (7)

a Delightful Tale
This story has made me a fan of David Kirk's work. The story is wonderful and teaches children a valuable lesson in self respect and being different, while showing that everyone is talented at something. You must never give up trying to find what your special talents are. Lil Miss Spider is excited about her first day of school, but when she arrives finds that there are many things that the other bugs can do, that she can't do well at all. At the end of the day she realizes how special she is when she courageously comes to the aid of another bug in trouble. She makes a gallant rescue and finally earns her gold star. "Our gifts, they are many: We hop, fly and crawl. But kindness," he (the principal) said, "Is the finest of all!" A perfect end to a brilliant children's story with unbelievably beautiful, bold illustrations. Your children won't be able to help themselves fall for the rhyming text as the story is brought to life with the pictures. This is a book that I delight in reading over and over again. One warning: The pages are gorgeous , but made on a thick, glossy paper. My daughter, who loves to put EVERYTHING in her mouth, got the nastiest paper cut on her lip. So now when I read it to her I give her a soft toy to keep her hands full. Ive purchased the board books as well, and those I put into heavy rotation. This is still my favorite, but will be better for her when she's a bit older.

Lots of fun for kids--and has a valuable lesson as well
The best word I can think of to describe David Kirk's illustrations is sunshiny. There is a buoyant, inherently happy quality to his work that goes so well with his simple Miss Spider series. Here, Miss Spider is excited to begin her first day at school, but gets more and more disappointed as the day goes on to discover that she isn't good at anything!

As one of her buddies gets stuck in a water spout, however, Miss Spider jumps right in without thinking and helps free the trapped bug. The school principal congratulates her warmly and reminds her that everyone--EVERYONE--has some sort of talent or skill that can be used to make the world a better place.

Lots of fun for little kids, and blessedly fun for parents as well--if only to marvel at the saturated colors and marvelous detail of Kirk's illustrations.

This book is a must-have for every child!
I received this book as a gift for my 4 month old daughter-we love it! The simple rhymes are easy to read and the bright, vivid pictures hold even the youngest child's interest. Little Miss Spider is a character any child can grow up with! I also love the fact that the book is practically indestructible-the pages don't tear or warp.

Caution:
Most excellent, oil painted illustrations and easygoing rhyme! Nice lesson in helping/kindness. Just misses the mark due to off-color (though true) reference to bugs in "dung"; children pay special interest--please at least spare us the detailed list of "students" with dung-related names!

Little Miss Spider...You've Got to Love Her
Poor Little Miss Spider, she was so excited about going to school that she woke up extra early, ate quickly and ran to Sunny Patch School so that she could be the first one there. But once her lessons began, she felt like a failure. She wasn't very good at hiding in trees, or chirping like crickets. She couldn't master drilling leaves with her tongue and digging in dung made her sick. And when she tried to fly, she fell flat on her nose. What a miserable first day of school. That is, until she heard a poor little bug cry out that he was stuck in a spout. Little Miss Spider knew just what to do. David Kirk has written a lovely and very gentle rhyming tale, that let's all youngsters know that everyone is special and talented in their own way. His spectacular, vibrant illustrations, compliment the story and will delight your kids with their rich color and big-eyed insects. A terrific picture book that's not to be missed and a heartwarming story kids will want to hear again and again. ... Read more