Waiting for Wings

"Waiting for Wings" was written by Lois Ehlert and published in 2001.

This book is a simple story of caterpillars hatching from their eggs, entering their cocoons, and becoming a butterfly. If that was simply what the book entailed, the book would be boring. What makes the book interesting is that the pages are all different sizes, and children experience the subtle changes of a caterpillar as it becomes a butterfly. Another element of the story is making the metamorphosis into a poem. "Out in the fields, eggs are hidden from view, clinging to leaves with butterfly glue."

Lois Ehlert has created a wonderful world in this book and exposes children to the different kinds of butterflies. The illustrations are full of color like a flower blooming or a butterfly taking it first flight. If the child is old enough and has the interest, butterfly and flower identifications are given in the back. This is a wonderful read with your children and perfect for sparking your child's interest in the world around them.

I emphasize the fact, that when an author takes the time to hone in his or her artistry and does not just throw together a book, I appreciate it.

I encourage families with young children from zero to seven to first read the book straight through. The poem is well worth it. When your children asks for it again or you read it again, start to point out the little yellow eggs, the caterpillars on the leaves, the different butterflies on the page, or the different colors on the page.

Thank you and your thoughts on the book are apreciated.