Good Trick Walking Stick

K-Gr 3—This delightful story explains the life cycle of a walking stick bug from egg stage through adulthood. Many characteristics of various species are explored as "tricks" that these insects perform. The life cycle and "tricks" are discussed in a narrative style, and each spread includes additional facts that expound on the bugs' abilities. This is especially useful for sharing this title with a variety of age groups; while the very young will enjoy the story, some children will love the additional facts provided. The illustrations are bright and bold and work well to enhance the story while providing visual cues for young readers. The collage style and organic colors evoke the natural world and help clarify the text, especially the camouflage characteristics of walking stick bugs. This title is likely to appeal to many readers who have interest in the world around them, and will also be useful for school assignments as titles on this strange insect are few and far between.