Light the sky, firefly

Gr 3--6--This is a beautifully illustrated and lovingly told story of the firefly. The overall story is in large print and is perfect for new readers on their own, or for reading aloud to younger children. Bestor covers the basic science in the life cycle of the firefly with minimal information. Below this narrative are asides for a more literal tale, with more scientific and biological language suitable for older children. The illustrations aptly cover both, and will transport kids and adults alike to summer nights when the fireflies put on a show. The asides also cover the medical research that utilizes bioluminescence liquid in experiments. There is even a note for that child who wants to catch fireflies and keep them in a jar--please don't. VERDICT This book is a great blend of the life-cycle story for many ages and for research or reading aloud.--Cynde Suite

A glowing chronicle of the life cycle of a firefly, from tiny egg to luminescent adult. Bestor and Lambert's latest collaboration for bug-curious readers starts with a firefly laying a clutch of eggs under some leaves in the summertime. A month later, small, six-legged larvae emerge. The quickly growing larvae spend their autumn nights hunting snails and slugs, preparing to hibernate underground and molt all winter. When springtime comes, the baby fireflies unearth themselves only to build and enter "a mud chamber" that allows them to transform into their final form: winged, long-bodied insects with a glimmering rear end. The simple main text appears in various sizes and colors, helping to emphasize various details for dramatic effect. Small-print informational tidbits, which use more sophisticated vocabulary, appear on the bottom of each full-bleed spread and will engage older children with additional context. Newer readers can easily skip these parts without losing the narrative thrust of the book. Thanks in large part to Lambert's captivating, cut-paper--style images, this title truly offers something for everyone, particularly in the beautiful nightscapes full of fireflies that close out the book. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Like a gleaming field of fireflies, it's tough to take your eyes off this mesmerizing book. (Informational picture book. 5-10) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.