Cicadas!

January 1, 2011

Gr 3-5-This title examines one of the most remarkable life cycles in nature. A succinct text, set against the background of vivid watercolor paintings of the insects in natural settings, describes their physical characteristics; the distinctive characteristics of several world species; the basic cicada life cycle; and the remarkably prolonged one of periodical species. These insects remain underground as nymphs for 13 or 17 years before emerging en masse to metamorphose into adults. The text emphasizes that the thousands of large, red-eyed insects that appear regularly in parts of the U.S. (mostly in the East) are harmless and belong to a different order from locusts, with which they are often confused (an anecdote relates how Pilgrims were alarmed at encountering cicadas in 1634). Also described are annual cicadas; how males generate their loud, buzzing mating call; cicadas' place in world folklore; threats to their survival, etc. The realistic paintings extend the text; smaller, boxed illustrations, overlaid on spreads, offer close-ups of anatomical features, developmental stages, and so on. Maps indicate geographical range, while a chart lists the years of the insects' emergence in various states. An author's note outlines Pringle's personal observations of cicadas and his recent efforts to establish some in a forest near his home. This smoothly written, beautifully illustrated title will fill a gap in most collections.-Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2010
Grades 2-4 The latest entry in the excellent Strange and Wonderful series provides an attractive introduction to cicadas, which typically spend 1, 13, or 17 years below ground before emerging for only a few weeks, to fly, sing, mate, lay their eggs, and die. From the apt Latin meaning of cicada (buzzer) to the Pilgrims reaction to the insects, the discussion ranges widely, but the spotlight remains on these amazing creatures. Clearly differentiating them from locusts, Pringle describes cicadas physical features, behaviors, life cycle, and loss of habitat. Though giving some attention to cicadas worldwide, the book focuses mainly on North American species. One intriguing section offers a map and information on periodical cicadas 13-year or 17-year cycles as well as a chart showing the years of emergence of individual broods and the states in which they live. Illustrating the book, Hendersons watercolor paintings are precisely delineated, informative, and sometimes lovely as well. An authors note and comments on sources conclude this clearly written, informative introduction.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)