Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/15/2020 *Starred Review* What’s a moth ball? It’s a party that provides opportunities for people to study moths at night. While this fully illustrated book lets readers experience a moth ball vicariously, its primary purpose is to show them how to plan and carry out their own events. First, the hosts “invite” moths by making a concoction of rotting bananas and brown sugar and brushing it onto trees and fences. Next, they set up a moth viewing area (a sheet hung from a clothesline and lit by “a special light bulb or two”) nearby. Then, at night, people closely observe the moths that gather there. The text and illustrations highlight the anatomy of moths and how they differ from butterflies. With many large, appealing photos that show a group of kids happily involved in preparations during the day and enjoying the event at night, this volume has an inviting look, reflecting the encouraging tone of the text. While most hands-on science books present many familiar projects in quick succession and without much explanation, this volume does a thorough job of explaining a novel project and, through the illustrations, making every stage of the process look like fun. A handsome guidebook with an engaging approach to nature study. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 04/01/2020 Gr 3–5—Burns and Harasimowicz have assembled a "Moth Ball" with all the instructions, procedures, and suggested resources needed to attract these nocturnal insects for study. Vibrant photography and informative text highlight the event's fun accessibility. The text and illustrations work together for both visual and verbal learning styles. There is artwork, book study, and preparations for the night-time activity. The participants make nectar by mashing bananas and brown sugar together, and then they paint it on tree trunks and fence posts. A white sheet and a light source are used to attract and collect the moths. The insects arrive; the citizen scientists learn which moths come to the light and which consume the nectar. When the observations are completed, a young girl is depicted alone in her tent studying a book on moths. Overall, the collective presentation is effective. Back matter includes a glossary, resources, and author's and photographer's notes. Be sure to check out both of them, especially the photographer's notes, because Harasimowicz shares how she overcame nighttime challenges. VERDICT An informative scientific adventure.—Nancy Call, formerly at Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 03/15/2020 - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 04/01/2020 - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.