I Love Bugs by Emma Dodd

This brightly colored book is a cheerful exploration of the world of insects that is less about scientific accuracy and more about an adoration of our six-legged friends.  The book moves quickly from bug to bug, from “jumpy leapy bugs” to “slimy crawly creepy bugs.”  All are appreciated for their differences until the end when a spider appears!  It is a great twist that children are sure to enjoy.

Dodd’s art is what really takes this book beyond a run-of-the-mill insect book.  Filled with bright colors, an eager child to guide us, and plenty of bug-eyed insects, young readers will feel right at home.  Her illustrations are thick lined and beautifully patterned, bringing the essence of grass, dirt and bugs directly to the reader.

Dodd’s language here is bouncy and pure fun.  She offers rhymes that have a real spring about them.  Since she doesn’t name the insects, children will be eager to name them themselves from caterpillars to ladybugs to grasshoppers.

Add this to a toddler story time and then set out on a bug hunt together.  It could just be cut outs around the children’s room.   This would pair wonderfully with nonfiction picture books about specific insects that will offer enticing details.  Appropriate for ages 1-4.

Reviewed from library copy.