The Monarch Butterfly – New Migrant

The transformation of a caterpillar to chrysalis to the emerging butterfly is a fascinating process that children and adults alike marvel over. The Monarch Butterfly – new migrant not only details this transformation but supplies lots of other information that readers might not be aware of too, such as the tiny scales that cover the wings act as miniature solar panels, absorbing heat!

Rich and descriptive language is used throughout the text, (luminescent, voracious, gorges, concertinas, quiver, captivating, curlicue) making it an interesting read and a chance to develop rich language for readers. Some text is highlighted in different colours which breaks up the text, adding interest to the pages.

The illustrations are colourful, bright and larger than life on some pages, making the details of the butterflies and chrysalis easy to see and appreciate their intricacies.

After the main part of the book there are two pages of background information, including theories about how these American natives made their way to Aotearoa, perfect for readers seeking more information.

Readers who have an interest in lifecycles and nature would enjoy this book.

Title: The Monarch Butterfly – New Migrant

Author: Annemarie Florian

Illustrator: Alistair Hughes

Publisher: White Cloud books, Upstart Press LTD

ISBN: 978-1-990003-66-0

RRP: $27.99

Format: Softcover

Date of Publication: 2022

Ages: 5+

Themes: Conservation

Do you have any advisory warnings for this book? No

Would this book work as a read aloud? Yes

Is there a particular part of the country that it’s set in? No

Reviewer’s name, job title, school name & region: Louana McCormack, Librarian, Opaheke School, Auckland

How highly are you recommending this book? Recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? Flitting, fluttering, a flying start to summer gliding in a patch of weak sun, the first monarch of the season holds us spellbound.

Buy this book here.