Butterflies: Exploring the Life Cycle

Gr 3–5—This title teaches the life cycle of lepidoptera through poetry, vibrant pictures, and activities. Looking at each part of the life of a butterfly, readers are taken on a lyrical trip through each milestone, from the uncertainty of the chrysalis to the shaking wet wings of its newly metamorphosed body. Hart has selected the most beautiful specimens to photograph for the book and has captured them in their natural habitats. At first, the book appears to be just a simple collection of butterfly-themed poetry, but its pop-up facts and activities make it a genre hybrid. Perhaps the best part of this title is its "Story Stretchers," Raines's accompanying story activities which are interdisciplinary projects for the classroom that use fairly inexpensive materials. Coupling with the poetry, Hart's photographs leap off the pages with beautifully focused shots and a vibrant color palate. The still images exceptionally illustrate the diversity in butterfly species and each part of a butterfly's life cycle.