Ladybug Girl by David Soman and Jacky Davis

Ladybug Girl by David Soman and Jacky Davis
Geared Towards: Ages 4-8
Published By: Dial Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: March 2008
ISBN-13: 978-0803731950

This was a book that grabbed my attention the minute I first set eyes on it sitting on the library shelf. The colors are bold and the cover art inviting. I didn't even know what the book was about, but I knew I just had to get it for my five year old daughter.

I'm so glad I did.

Ladybug Girl is a little girl, probably 4-6 years old, with nothing but time on her hands. Mommy and daddy have work to be done, her big brother is playing baseball with friends, and Ladybug Girl has to find something to do to occupy herself. Dressed in her favorite red and black ladybug costume, hence the nickname, Ladybug Girl and her dog, Bingo, set out to find adventure in their own back yard. They save ants, puddle jump, make a fort, and more. Through it all Ladybug Girl shows that just because you're little it doesn't mean you can't have just as much fun as the bigger kids do.

This book was truly a delight to read. The story was cute, and carried with it an inspirational message. Size doesn't count for everything, and you're only as small as you feel. I think this message will be one many kids will be able to benefit from and enjoy.

Additionally, the illustrations were beautiful, eye catching, and detailed. You could really get a sense of what Ladybug Girl was feeling/thinking just by looking at the expressions portrayed on her face.

Then, lastly, there's the matter of the text. The font itself was quirky and fun. And to top it off, the authors chose to emphasis the name "Ladybug Girl" in the text with a bright red color. Not only does this make the text pop, but it engages the reader on a whole new level.

In short, my five year old totally loved it. My two year old really liked the illustrations. And I thought it to be a very clever and enjoyable read to be sure.

OUR RATING: 5 HEARTS