What You Need to Know:
• A simple story that highlights the importance of being yourself.
• Bugs are the stars of this book.
• There are only one or two lines of text per page and the illustrations dominate.
• A love of books is shared by the main characters.
• Click here for the author’s website featuring his books and samples of his artwork. |
Sweet Book Summary:
The Gentleman Bug is a studious little bug living in a garden full of bugs. He loves books and reading and even teaches a class. Some bugs make fun of his interests but he never minds until one day a Lady Bug comes to town. When she doesn’t pay attention to him, he decides to make some changes to his appearance. The result of these efforts teaches him -and readers - an important lesson about being comfortable with who you are and never changing to satisfy someone else.
Although the story is short and there are few words on the page, the author is able to deliver a sweet, meaningful tale. The illustrations capture the Gentleman Bug’s garden beautifully and definitely add to the story with their soothing colors and delightful details. The dress is old fashioned and the location of the Garden seems to be England given the names of the places – Bugadilly Circus and Queen’s Cross Station. The front and back inside covers feature a map of the Garden and the names of many other bugs living there. Could there be a sequel or even a series with these little creatures? I guess that depends on how many kids relate to anthropomorphized bugs. They are surprisingly gentle looking and not at all creepy so I think there’s a good chance we’ll see more. |
Author: Julian Hector Illustrator: Juan Wijngaard Published: 2010, 40 pages
Themes: Animals, Books & Reading, Friendship, Identity |
Sweet Discussion Questions:
• Where do you think the Gentleman Bug gets his name?
• Why did the Gentleman Bug change his appearance?
• Should you change the way you look to get someone to like you?
• Why did some of the other bugs make fun of the Gentleman Bug?
• Would you like to visit the garden where the bugs live?
• Would you give up something that you loved to do if other people thought it was silly?
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| This recommendation was written by: Melissa G. |
| Support Independent Book Shops: Click Here to Buy this Book on IndieBound |
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Capture the Flag
