This picture book is a nice overview of metamorphosis, with beautiful artwork. Moths and butterflies are compared side to side, so that readers can see how they are both very similar and different as they change from caterpillar to adult. The difference between a chrysalis and a cocoon are illustrated and explained side by side. All of the caterpillars and moths in the book are labeled with their common names.
Anatomy and behavior of the adults are included, with a note on how important they are as pollinators. Readers are given encouragement to protect them, and expansion activities on the last page of the book.
Author & illustrator: Rachel Ignotofsky
Publisher: Random House
https://rachelignotofskydesign.com/caterpillar-cocoon
There is a coloring page at the link above for free download.
LessonHiveAdmin –
The art in this book is stunning!! Every page could be a full size poster.
This book was a starred selection for both Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal. The beautiful pictures of moths, butterflies and caterpillars will attract smaller kids to the book well before they’re old enough to understand the terminology and the science. It’s there, though, for older kids, and we love the way that animals and environment are matched. We especially like how moths and butterflies are compared side by side, to help readers understand their similarities and differences. The downloads at the author’s website are fantastic as well.
We want to give this 5 stars, but alas, it’s not NGSS aligned so the rubric says no. It’s still a fantastic supplemental resource.