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Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
In this whimsical tale, Fly, Ladybug, Fly! by Katie Zimbaluk, young readers meet a determined little ladybug who dreams of taking flight like her pals. She refuses to give up and seeks advice from some other insects she encounters. Along the way, she receives some helpful ideas from a Bee, a Dragonfly, and a Butterfly, each offering different thoughts on how she might be able to soar, like eating extra food or jumping from an anthill. With each attempt, she learns something new about perseverance, creativity, and believing in herself. By the end, will she know how to fly, or will she be destined to forever stay on the ground?
I loved Fly, Ladybug, Fly! by Katie Zimbaluk because it captures a perfect mix of resilience and heart. As an educator, I believe this book lends itself to a fun read-aloud for preschool and early elementary classrooms during a unit on insects, nature, or even at the beginning of the year when discussing the importance of persistence. I can also envision ways to extend the story, such as discussing what makes them special, having them create their own invention for the little bug to try to fly with, or even growing classroom ladybugs to release once they are ready. It shows children how to have empathy and help a friend, because each buddy gives the ladybug a suggestion instead of telling her to go away. Carmen Corrales’s imaginative illustrations complement the narrative wonderfully. My favorite page was the first time the tale used flip, flap, and flop to show the ladybug's expressions. It’s an excellent book that inspires and celebrates the beauty of being different.
