Moth & Butterfly: Ta Da!

“Change is in the air! Two caterpillars romp happily through a garden, but something is about to happen! Minimal, energetic text and brightly colored illustrations full of kid appeal tell the tale of the two friends and capture the excitement of change in this exuberant introduction to the concept of metamorphosis and the differences between a moth and a butterfly. The story artfully incorporates the idea of change and the appreciation of differences and similarities between two friends with the concrete differences between the two insects that develop over the course of their life cycles; initial commonalities are described before the friends disappear into pupae to undergo metamorphosis, and then “POP!” Each appears in a new winged form (a moth and a butterfly), and differences are succinctly enumerated (color, movement, camouflage, sleep cycles). . . . The simple text includes speech bubbles that add to the excitement and fun, and the author’s choice to focus on one big word and concept (metamorphosis) rather than a hefty vocabulary or the full life cycle makes this a great choice for the very young. A deceptively simple mix of engaging story, appreciation of differences, and introduction to moths and butterflies.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Whimsical, silly illustrations use bold colors to make this garden paradise really pop. The fast-paced story uses minimal text and a light-hearted narrative to capture the attention of preschoolers. . . . Lessons about the natural world and friendship in the face of differences flourish.”—School Library Journal

“The seemingly simple story cleverly gets some key characteristics (and the concept of metamorphosis) across while reassuring young readers that burgeoning differences don’t have to doom a relationship. The splashy illustrations are animated and amusing, capturing caterpillar expressions and moth movements in colorful detail. It’s a sweet and snazzy celebration of the natural world and the bonds of friendship.”—Booklist

“Petty’s friendly text provides a light introduction to comparative observation, noting selected similarities and differences in the animals’ appearances and behaviors. . . . The adult butterfly and moth make spectacular entrances across two double-page spreads. . . . The anthropomorphized insects appear as cheerful buddies palling around in an idyllic backyard setting.”—Horn Book