Alphabet of Insects by Barbie Heit Schwaeber

I'm wrapping up my "bug book" week with Alphabet of Insects by Barbie Heit Schwaeber, illustrated by Katy Bratun, Thomas Buchs, Allen Davis, John Paul Genzo, Kristin Kest, Katie Lee, Larry Mikec, and Daniel J. Stegos

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Soundprints (October 10, 2007)

Part of Soundprints the Smithsonian Institution's Alphabet Books series, Alphabet of Insects features a different insect for every letter of the alphabet. We are introduced to familiar and not so familiar insects alike: grasshoppers, butterflies, weevils, zebra caterpillars, and olive fruit flies to name a few.

Along with beautifully detailed and lifelike illustrations is a rhyming stanza describing the featured insect on the page. The rhythm and interesting facts will keep children entertained and engaged.

For example:
"H is for Harlequin Cabbage Bug
This insect is a stinkbug
And here's how you can tell:
If you get too close you'll know
it has an awful smell. "

This is particularly effective for beginning readers and read alouds.

What makes this book even more unique and engaging are the mixed media illustrations by a variety of artists. The details and true-to-life colors will make children squirm in delight.

In the back of the book is a glossary with even more information, and you also get a full-size poster and a sing-along CD.

This would make a great book for children who are learning the alphabet and/or interested in learning more about insects.

Other books in the Smithsonian Alphabet Series:

• Alphabet of Animals
• Alphabet of Ocean Animals
• Alphabet of Bears
• Alphabet of Dinosaurs
• Alphabet of Space