Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 04/15/2022 On a warm spring day a seven-spotted ladybug looks for the perfect spot to lay her eggs. She tries several bushes and trees, only to be deterred by walking sticks, thorn bugs, leaf katydids, crab spiders, orchid mantises, goat moths, lappet moths, and sticky caterpillars. Following a perilous descent from a tall oak, she lands in a colony of aphids (her favorite food), a perfect spot for her eggs. Translated from French, Simler's succinct text tells just enough to introduce these arthropods to young readers. The brightly hued digital artwork is mostly naturalistic, although enhanced facial features and snarky word balloon comments (Scram!, Hey, move it!) add a dash of anthropomorphism. The illustrations make good use of repeated lines that serve to create texture, signify movement, and deepen colors. Several insects employ camouflage, adding interest to the artwork. While the habitats of these creatures (from Malaysia to South America to Europe) make it unlikely they would ever be found together, the diverse selections are engaging. Back matter includes further information about each species. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.