Julian Hector

In a garden full of flowers is a bustling town of bugs. Among them is the Gentleman Bug, who loves to read and teaches the children. He doesn't mind the other bugs' scorn of his literary pursuits, until a charming Lady Bug appears. The Gentleman Bug falls hopelessly in love and sets out to change himself so he can be popular and win her love...only to discover they have more in common than he thought.

This simple story of bibliophiles and the meeting of true minds is charmingly illustrated show more with a wealth of color and taste. There are no elaborate details, but rather a simple representation of a miniature world. Children will love the many fanciful bugs and their adapted costumes and be pleased by the triumph of the underbug.

Verdict: A charming story, although perhaps a little bland.

ISBN: 978-1416994671; Published April 2010 by Atheneum; Borrowed from the library show less

There are two specific reasons why I liked the book, “The Little Matador”. The first reason I enjoyed this book was the illustrations. The illustrations brought the book to life and filled every white space on every page. The author used pastels to bring out the color in each page and added specific detail, such as line work on a dress. The second reason why I enjoyed this book was the plot. The fact that the little boy was from a family of matadors didn’t make it easy for his parents show more to accept that the boy didn’t want to be a matador but rather, an artist. As the book comes to an end, his parents accept that the boy does not wish to be a matador but wishes to pursue drawing. In my opinion, this is an important feature to see in a book. Children need to know that they should do whatever activity makes them happy even if it differs from what other people wish they would do. The main idea is for children to do what they love and not just do something because people tell them to do it. show less

Read Scaredy Squirrel or Mother Bruce instead. This reinforces stereotypes about Hispanic people, and also makes no sense. Cute pictures though; I'd look for more by the artist.

This book is super cute. I love how all of the little bugs are dressed up as people, and I especially love that it is about reading! I think this is a great book for kids, because it shows that reading can be fun!