Butterflies

Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. Butterflies. New York: HaperCollins Publishers, 2011. ISBN: 9780061914935

Plot Summary

Award-winning science writer Seymour Simon invites readers to explore the world of butterflies and moths with fascinating facts and stunning full-color photographs. Learn where to find butterflies and moths, how to observe them in nature, and how to plant your very own butterfly garden.

Critical Analysis

Butterflies and moths have eyes that look in all directions - up, down, forward, backward, left, and right - all at the same time.  They taste with their feet and smell with their antennae.  The more brightly colored butterflies and moths are often poisonous.  This photo essay book is filled with interesting facts and beautiful photographs of these amazing insects.  The book takes you through the 4 different life stages and the migratory patterns of butterflies and moths.  Seymour explains the identifying characteristics of moths and butterflies.  He also touches on some of the myths surrounding them.   The book also has activity suggestions, a glossary of terms, index and additional resources for more information.   The books is simple enough for elementary children but the combination of colorful photos and engaging facts will appeal to all ages.  


Awards and Excerpts

Booklist Book Review Stars , Oct. 15, 2011 ; American Library Association; United States

Booklist Top 10 Science and Health Books for Youth, 2011 ; American Library Association; United States

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12, 2012 ; National Science Teachers Association; United States

BookList review excerpt “Simon takes on a familiar topic in children's nonfiction and makes it fresh again.“



Connections

Other Books by Seymour Simon:
Tropical Rainforests (2010)
Global Warming (2010)
Dolphins (2009)
Wolves (2009)

Other informational books on butterflies:
Inside Butterflies: Enter the Wonderful World of Butterflies and Moths by Hazel Davies (2011)
The Complete Book of North American Butterflies by Paul A. Opler (2011)
Face to Face With Butterflies by Darlyne Murawski (2010)

Design your own butterfly garden.  Research what type of plants grow in your zone and create a list of plants you would like to include in your garden.  Create a planting diagram.  You may even want to visit your local garden center for additional ideas.

Observe the butterflies and create a scientific journal of their habits.

Many zoos have butterfly exhibits you can visit.