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Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite
The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta's Insects) by Lois Wickstrom is a charming children’s book that takes young readers on an adventure with young Loretta. As Loretta plays in her garden, she stumbles upon some tiny, glowing creatures. At first, she thinks they’re just “armadillo bugs,” but to her surprise, she finds out they are actually firefly larvae. Loretta is so intrigued that she keeps them in an ant farm box, where she watches them create their little mud tunnels and homes. As she observes these glowing critters, she witnesses the amazing journey of fireflies, from their early days as larvae to their transformation into the beautiful, glowing insects we all love. Throughout this delightful tale, Loretta also learns the secrets behind the fireflies' flashing signals, which introduce young readers to the enchanting world of bioluminescence. This story beautifully weaves together a sweet narrative with fascinating facts, giving kids a firsthand look at the wonders of nature and the magical lives of fireflies.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta's Insects) for its ability to make science accessible and engaging for children. The pace is gentle yet captivating, allowing children to absorb the wonder of nature and the life cycle of fireflies in a comfortable, natural rhythm. Loretta is a relatable character whose curiosity and patience set a great example, and the way she cares for and observes the larvae is endearing. Lois Wickstrom merged educational content seamlessly with an engaging storyline, making it feel less like a lesson and more like a journey through discovery. Francie Mion’s illustrations really bring the story to life. They beautifully capture the enchanting glow of fireflies and the fascinating details of their transformation. The themes of curiosity, respect for nature, and learning through observation are presented in such a lovely way. This book is filled with warmth and is not only fun to read but also educates kids about the wonders of the natural world, inspiring them to explore and discover.
