Ingenious Insects

By Sarah Allen
Reviewed by Margarite Igras

Australian author and illustrator Sarah Allen shares her love of the amazing fauna and flora found on the Australian continent in this ingenious children’s picture book. Her first book, Busy Beaks was shortlisted for the CBCA Early Childhood Books 2021. She has also written and illustrated Jumping Joeys which was awarded the CBCA Notable Book 2022. Her latest book Ingenious Insects is a first field guide to Australia’s unique Six-legged Superheroes, with interesting details which, though aimed at 3 to 9 years old, may even surprise the adult reader.

The pages of friendly looking insects invite the reader into some quick facts about the habitat and behaviour of this diverse group of bugs. Katydids and stick insects are well camouflaged, grasshoppers can change their body colour depending on the temperature, and the red and black lady beetles come in many other patterns and colours. We learn that fireflies are beetles, dragonflies can fly backwards, and butterflies have their taste buds on their feet.

The illustrations are bold and vibrant and while accurately depicting the insects, there is some artistic licence with friendly looking eyes and possible smiles, making this an informative but accessible experience for young children. The verse text welcomes the reader, while each of the twenty-three insects featured, include some life cycles, as well as some colourful Australian flora.  The two double pages at the end of the book provides the reader with more information about our interesting insects.

This is an engaging book, worthy as a reference source for children. It is a combination of science and art, demonstrating the author’s desire to share her love of some of Australia’s ingenious insects.

Affirm Press 2024
Sara Allen