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ANTics
Bug cadets, Zube, Brill and HesitANT have a problem – and he’s big, mean, hairy and smelly. This funny and entertaining tale takes place on one day in the life of the three young ant friends as they set off to bring food back to their nest.
Danger lurks around every corner, especially when you’re just the size of a grain of rice. Follow the tiny pals through many unexpected and exciting twists and turns as they flee danger and make new friends.
Reviewers say this cute story with its colourful characters would make a great animated movie. As well as many funny moments, it’s also educational and is a great way for children to learn new words as the characters have names that describe their personality and end in ANT. The story also highlights the value of friendship and teamwork and features some interactive ideas at the end.
This fun illustrated book, in the style of Watership Down, will captivate young and old alike. It’s the perfect bedtime story for ages 7+ to read or be read to time and time again.
Danger lurks around every corner, especially when you’re just the size of a grain of rice. Follow the tiny pals through many unexpected and exciting twists and turns as they flee danger and make new friends.
Reviewers say this cute story with its colourful characters would make a great animated movie. As well as many funny moments, it’s also educational and is a great way for children to learn new words as the characters have names that describe their personality and end in ANT. The story also highlights the value of friendship and teamwork and features some interactive ideas at the end.
This fun illustrated book, in the style of Watership Down, will captivate young and old alike. It’s the perfect bedtime story for ages 7+ to read or be read to time and time again.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2012
14 people want to read
About the author
Dakota Douglas
8 books87 followersDakota Douglas has written thousands of stories as a newspaper reporter. Now she's following her childhood dream of being a novelist. As a kid she read books under the bedclothes by torchlight. These days, she dives under the covers, torch in hand, to scribble down conversations between her book characters in case she forgets them in the morning.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 10, 2013
ANTics is a book for children ages seven and older. This tale features the story of three young ants on the run, trying to escape a crazy, smelly spider who intends to turn the three ants into ant soup. This book is designed to teach children the importance of teamwork and friendship. It also does a fantastic job of teaching about the habits and lives of ants. A good and adventurous read for both children and adults.
September 12, 2012
Review 7*******
I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
I loved this book!
ExuberANT (Zube for short), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT are fantastic characters! I loved them! Their antics made me grin! Zube has a quick wit, and a sharp mind. Brill is simply brilliant, and usually comes up with a solution for any problem. HesitANT is the smallest ant, but I think he is the bravest.
Their nemesis is in the form of a spider called RepugnANT (called Puggy by Zube). He's EVIL and wily, but he's not too bright (in my opinion!).
This is a fabulous book for children from the ages 7+. The story is absorbing and grabbed my interest quite quickly. There are no pictures, but Dakota Douglas's descriptions are very vivid and I could see the story unfold in my mind quite effortlessly. This would be a fantastic bedtime story. I think that children will enjoy the adventures of the three little ants; it's educational but fun. As their reading ability improves, they would be able to follow the book and read it themselves. I highly recommend this book to your little ones. I know it's a bit early for Christmas, but this book would make a fantastic stocking filler in print form! - Lynn Worton (WaAR)
I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
I loved this book!
ExuberANT (Zube for short), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT are fantastic characters! I loved them! Their antics made me grin! Zube has a quick wit, and a sharp mind. Brill is simply brilliant, and usually comes up with a solution for any problem. HesitANT is the smallest ant, but I think he is the bravest.
Their nemesis is in the form of a spider called RepugnANT (called Puggy by Zube). He's EVIL and wily, but he's not too bright (in my opinion!).
This is a fabulous book for children from the ages 7+. The story is absorbing and grabbed my interest quite quickly. There are no pictures, but Dakota Douglas's descriptions are very vivid and I could see the story unfold in my mind quite effortlessly. This would be a fantastic bedtime story. I think that children will enjoy the adventures of the three little ants; it's educational but fun. As their reading ability improves, they would be able to follow the book and read it themselves. I highly recommend this book to your little ones. I know it's a bit early for Christmas, but this book would make a fantastic stocking filler in print form! - Lynn Worton (WaAR)
March 23, 2013
Eleven-year-old, Alex, wrote this review with some grammar edits from Tammy.
When my mom first talked about reviewing this book I didn’t think I’d like it. It sounded very “little-kid” to me. At the start of the story, Zube crosses the Forbidden QuadrANT and risks being crushed by “Two Legs” and I was hooked. The Ant characters are fun!
The bad guy is named RepugnANT and he’s a spider. I hate spiders. They freak me out. The Ants hate spiders too but that’s because the spider wants to kill all of them. He had a really bad childhood but that’s no excuse for wanting to kill ants!
The way that the author writes is fun and the action was very fun. The Ants have adventures together that are risky.Sometimes life gets busy so Mom and me couldn't read it in one sitting but I didn't want to stop reading!
This book doesn’t have any pictures but it’s a lot of fun. Children in Grade 1 or 2 who are just learning to read would love it for book reports at school or just to read for fun.
When my mom first talked about reviewing this book I didn’t think I’d like it. It sounded very “little-kid” to me. At the start of the story, Zube crosses the Forbidden QuadrANT and risks being crushed by “Two Legs” and I was hooked. The Ant characters are fun!
The bad guy is named RepugnANT and he’s a spider. I hate spiders. They freak me out. The Ants hate spiders too but that’s because the spider wants to kill all of them. He had a really bad childhood but that’s no excuse for wanting to kill ants!
The way that the author writes is fun and the action was very fun. The Ants have adventures together that are risky.Sometimes life gets busy so Mom and me couldn't read it in one sitting but I didn't want to stop reading!
This book doesn’t have any pictures but it’s a lot of fun. Children in Grade 1 or 2 who are just learning to read would love it for book reports at school or just to read for fun.
February 18, 2013
In the Fairweather's garden, under the apple tree is a hidden world – InhabitANT – home to a colony of ants.
One of the OccupANT's, Zube (short for ExuberANT) is late to meet his friend, BrilliANT and takes his life in his hands to cross The Forbidden Quadrant (the patio to Two Legs like you and me). He barely survives a brush with a broom, then an encounter with a soldier ant – SergeANT 33 –guarding the nest. Once she recognises him she warns him of yet another threat – the colony's greatest enemy, RepugnANT, is on the prowl. Nicknamed Puggy by Zube and his friends, the spider is a remorseless and enthusiastic killer of ants.
Zube finally, and very late, finds his friends BrilliANT and HesitANT and they set off to forage for a berry for their PennANT badge. What seems a basic ant task is actually full of danger for the young ants – full of obstacles to find a way past, falling leaves to smother or crush, and of course hunting birds and other insects, oh, and a clumsy worm with no name, who the friends call PleasANT, make this an exciting challenge for the youngsters.
Not everyone they encounter is as friendly as PleasANT though, and a horrible pong announces that RepugnANT is nearby. The three ants run – straight in to Puggy's snare of silk. HesitANT is stuck fast and it's up to Zube and Brill to rescue him.
But that's only the start of their adventures. They have to deal with all sorts of dangers, including powder compacts, lakes of rainwater, fighting cats and the relentless pursuit of Puggy, who now not only wants the three ants dead, but the whole InhabitANT colony. Can the combined talents of ExuberANT, BrilliANT and HesitANT save the day?
ANTics is a clever and well-written book with a lovely pace and rhythm. Our world has been creatively and delightfully imagined from the ants' point of view, with a humorous play on language throughout. The ants themselves are charming characters who embark on an exciting series of adventures building to a dramatic conclusion, with a refreshing look at the insect world – I certainly know a lot more about spiders and ants having read this. Kids will love it and will not be able to put it down.
One of the OccupANT's, Zube (short for ExuberANT) is late to meet his friend, BrilliANT and takes his life in his hands to cross The Forbidden Quadrant (the patio to Two Legs like you and me). He barely survives a brush with a broom, then an encounter with a soldier ant – SergeANT 33 –guarding the nest. Once she recognises him she warns him of yet another threat – the colony's greatest enemy, RepugnANT, is on the prowl. Nicknamed Puggy by Zube and his friends, the spider is a remorseless and enthusiastic killer of ants.
Zube finally, and very late, finds his friends BrilliANT and HesitANT and they set off to forage for a berry for their PennANT badge. What seems a basic ant task is actually full of danger for the young ants – full of obstacles to find a way past, falling leaves to smother or crush, and of course hunting birds and other insects, oh, and a clumsy worm with no name, who the friends call PleasANT, make this an exciting challenge for the youngsters.
Not everyone they encounter is as friendly as PleasANT though, and a horrible pong announces that RepugnANT is nearby. The three ants run – straight in to Puggy's snare of silk. HesitANT is stuck fast and it's up to Zube and Brill to rescue him.
But that's only the start of their adventures. They have to deal with all sorts of dangers, including powder compacts, lakes of rainwater, fighting cats and the relentless pursuit of Puggy, who now not only wants the three ants dead, but the whole InhabitANT colony. Can the combined talents of ExuberANT, BrilliANT and HesitANT save the day?
ANTics is a clever and well-written book with a lovely pace and rhythm. Our world has been creatively and delightfully imagined from the ants' point of view, with a humorous play on language throughout. The ants themselves are charming characters who embark on an exciting series of adventures building to a dramatic conclusion, with a refreshing look at the insect world – I certainly know a lot more about spiders and ants having read this. Kids will love it and will not be able to put it down.
April 5, 2013
This book was reviewed by Lee Ashford for Reader's Favorite.
“ANTics” by Dakota Douglas is a charming story about life in InhabitANT, as experienced and related to us by three young cadets, ExuberANT (Zube), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT (no nickname).
On a food gathering expedition these three young friends were ambushed by the horrible, ferocious, and stinky spider, RepugnANT, otherwise known as “Puggy”… but not to his face. Their journey is filled with excitement, sometimes aided by ElegANT the butterfly, PleasANT the earthworm, or other friendlies in Badger’s Hollow. Their journey is also filled with frightening events, such as when they hid from Puggy in the house of Mrs. Fairweather, only to find themselves caught in another spider’s web!
The three friends eventually wind up lost, afloat on a log in a large lake (a twig in a mud puddle), with no way to get home, and no idea which way home even is! Meanwhile, Puggy is closing in on the trio. Will this be the end for our intrepid explorers? Or will the occupANTs of InhabitANT be able to help our heroes in time?
This story was very enjoyable to read. Ant puns abound, and add significANTly to the humor throughout the story, even though some are real groaners (like the one I just did). It surprised me to learn that I could actually feel concern for ants, and harbor resentment toward a spider! The author really accomplished quite a remarkable feat, developing insect characters that the reader would actually care about!
Another innovative thing Dakota did was to end the story in an interactive way, inviting the young readers for whom this story is written to suggest a new, more appropriate name for HesitANT, and/or to write a short “news report” of the final results of the day’s events. This story is well worth reading, either by kids, to kids, or even for the enjoyment of an adult. I recommend getting this first episode of an ant’s life in Badger’s Hollow. Then just curl up on the couch, and enjoy the story.
“ANTics” by Dakota Douglas is a charming story about life in InhabitANT, as experienced and related to us by three young cadets, ExuberANT (Zube), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT (no nickname).
On a food gathering expedition these three young friends were ambushed by the horrible, ferocious, and stinky spider, RepugnANT, otherwise known as “Puggy”… but not to his face. Their journey is filled with excitement, sometimes aided by ElegANT the butterfly, PleasANT the earthworm, or other friendlies in Badger’s Hollow. Their journey is also filled with frightening events, such as when they hid from Puggy in the house of Mrs. Fairweather, only to find themselves caught in another spider’s web!
The three friends eventually wind up lost, afloat on a log in a large lake (a twig in a mud puddle), with no way to get home, and no idea which way home even is! Meanwhile, Puggy is closing in on the trio. Will this be the end for our intrepid explorers? Or will the occupANTs of InhabitANT be able to help our heroes in time?
This story was very enjoyable to read. Ant puns abound, and add significANTly to the humor throughout the story, even though some are real groaners (like the one I just did). It surprised me to learn that I could actually feel concern for ants, and harbor resentment toward a spider! The author really accomplished quite a remarkable feat, developing insect characters that the reader would actually care about!
Another innovative thing Dakota did was to end the story in an interactive way, inviting the young readers for whom this story is written to suggest a new, more appropriate name for HesitANT, and/or to write a short “news report” of the final results of the day’s events. This story is well worth reading, either by kids, to kids, or even for the enjoyment of an adult. I recommend getting this first episode of an ant’s life in Badger’s Hollow. Then just curl up on the couch, and enjoy the story.
September 11, 2012
This is a really cool story about a kingdom of ant whose inhavitANTS have the most creative names I have ever seen. This intriguing and fun story is quite refreshing, and a cute concept for the children’s market. ANTics is a well-done tale that will enchant boys and girls in elementary school and some older kids too. ANTics is a great written work that will teach love friendship and unity to our kids. These are values that many children don’t have these days when parents don’t have the time to teach them.
The story starts when one ant, named ExuberANT, is trying to take a short cut on his way to his friend’s, BrilliANT, who awaits impatiently in the other side. He chooses to disobey orders and crosses the human family’s patio where many other ants have found death under the shoes of the two-footed people. He learned that day that rules are placed for a good reason. But that isn’t what the book is about. The story gets better when these two ants befriend a lonely, small, picked-on ant by the name HesitANT. Between the three, they get in trouble by making their deathly enemy, RepugnANT, mad. He’s a huge magical spider. The beast is cruel, strong, and deadly. The three friends are chased, trapped, and almost drowned in the pages of this book, all the way to a very interesting end—where you will find the real hero in the story.
ANTics has all the important ingredients to make it a favorite of parents, teachers, and children alike. I recommended it for any private or public library. Excellent work.
The story starts when one ant, named ExuberANT, is trying to take a short cut on his way to his friend’s, BrilliANT, who awaits impatiently in the other side. He chooses to disobey orders and crosses the human family’s patio where many other ants have found death under the shoes of the two-footed people. He learned that day that rules are placed for a good reason. But that isn’t what the book is about. The story gets better when these two ants befriend a lonely, small, picked-on ant by the name HesitANT. Between the three, they get in trouble by making their deathly enemy, RepugnANT, mad. He’s a huge magical spider. The beast is cruel, strong, and deadly. The three friends are chased, trapped, and almost drowned in the pages of this book, all the way to a very interesting end—where you will find the real hero in the story.
ANTics has all the important ingredients to make it a favorite of parents, teachers, and children alike. I recommended it for any private or public library. Excellent work.
September 9, 2012
The play on the word ANT is very clever. The ants live in InhabitANT. Inhabitants are HesitANT, EXUBERant, and BrilliANT, just to name a few.
The story is a fun adventure for children to read. The ants are very much alike families that deal with similar issues as human beings. In this story, the biggest challenge for the ants is foraging food for InhabitANT, without getting killed by humans, animals, or bullies in their own environment.
While the book is not age coded, and because of its length, children would appreciate the story if it included pictures. The cover page is very enticing and fun and young readers would expect to visualize each unique ant and ‘character’ in color.
An idea would be to break up the book into smaller stories. There are so many terrific adventures; one adventure a book would be more effective in holding a child’s attention.
There are several typos, which cannot occur in a child’s book.
ANTics is a subtle and fun way to teach children life’s lessons. The story is clever and well written. Pictures accompanying such a character rich story would be an enhancement.
Young readers will be entertained when they choose, ANTics by Dakota Douglas.
The story is a fun adventure for children to read. The ants are very much alike families that deal with similar issues as human beings. In this story, the biggest challenge for the ants is foraging food for InhabitANT, without getting killed by humans, animals, or bullies in their own environment.
While the book is not age coded, and because of its length, children would appreciate the story if it included pictures. The cover page is very enticing and fun and young readers would expect to visualize each unique ant and ‘character’ in color.
An idea would be to break up the book into smaller stories. There are so many terrific adventures; one adventure a book would be more effective in holding a child’s attention.
There are several typos, which cannot occur in a child’s book.
ANTics is a subtle and fun way to teach children life’s lessons. The story is clever and well written. Pictures accompanying such a character rich story would be an enhancement.
Young readers will be entertained when they choose, ANTics by Dakota Douglas.
September 30, 2013
Everyone knows that ants are everywhere; they are industrious, clever, work as a team and live in anthills, however, have you ever really thought what life is like for them?
ANTics is a brilliant adventure story which will capture your imagination and ensure that you never look at ants in the same way again.
Set in a world literally at your feet, ant cadets Zube [ExuberANT] and Brill [BrilliANT] decide to try and pass their foraging flag and they agree to take the timid HesitANT with them.
However, their adventure is fraught with unforeseeable dangers, both from the giant two legs world above them, and from some of the other wildlife around them. Together, the intrepid explorers find themselves escaping dangers, overcoming challenges, vanquishing foes and making new friends in this captivating and educational book.
This delightful story, with brilliantly devised character names, not only gives children an insight into the world of ants but most importantly, they are taught through an engaging story about the importance of qualities such as loyalty, teamwork and respect.
ANTics is a brilliant adventure story which will capture your imagination and ensure that you never look at ants in the same way again.
Set in a world literally at your feet, ant cadets Zube [ExuberANT] and Brill [BrilliANT] decide to try and pass their foraging flag and they agree to take the timid HesitANT with them.
However, their adventure is fraught with unforeseeable dangers, both from the giant two legs world above them, and from some of the other wildlife around them. Together, the intrepid explorers find themselves escaping dangers, overcoming challenges, vanquishing foes and making new friends in this captivating and educational book.
This delightful story, with brilliantly devised character names, not only gives children an insight into the world of ants but most importantly, they are taught through an engaging story about the importance of qualities such as loyalty, teamwork and respect.
December 31, 2012
The ANTics is a an outstanding story with adventures of three ants, living in a garden with other crawly insects. They not only interact with insects of the garden but people (two legs) they call them.
Insects threaten them in the garden. Two legs threaten them crossing the patio the "Forbidden QuadrAnt." The story is fun to read. The story has a lot of energy, I found my self oohing and awing at times because of the excitement unfolding.
The book is written very descriptive, if pictures were added it would add to the effect.
Insects threaten them in the garden. Two legs threaten them crossing the patio the "Forbidden QuadrAnt." The story is fun to read. The story has a lot of energy, I found my self oohing and awing at times because of the excitement unfolding.
The book is written very descriptive, if pictures were added it would add to the effect.
October 7, 2012
When asked to review a book, I never know what to expect, but had to smile along with this story. It is a delightful, fun story with many inlaid lessons for children (and maybe adults too). I would think that 7+ would enjoy the 'antics' within the tale, which was well written with good characters.
April 7, 2013
Aptly named, ANTics is the story of a boisterous trio of ANTs led by the ExuberANT, ‘Zube’ and his two sidekicks: the BrilliANT ‘Brill’ and the unlikely paragon of bravery, HesitANT. Together they embark on escapades, dangerous and bold.
It’s a great read to share secrets of the world of ants with children — at least those who don’t like spiders!
It’s a great read to share secrets of the world of ants with children — at least those who don’t like spiders!
October 11, 2012
What a delightful story for youngsters. The play on words is clever, and there is enough adventure to keep you interested. Having just written a book about ants, I find it amazing how authors can look at the same subject from such different perspectives.
May 23, 2013
Great read for kids!
August 4, 2014
Delightful tale of the make believe life of ants and the trials and tribulations they face. Very rich in detail and energy.
October 1, 2017
Adorable. This quaint story of several ants and their bug/wildlife friends takes word play to the next level. The biology included added a delightful "extra layer" to the adventures the three main-character ants and their nemesis. While, there were aspects of this story that were a bit "disjointed," overall, kids from 2nd to 5th grade would benefit from the vocabulary and moral lessons included in this book.
April 14, 2013
A Delightful Children's story!, April 13, 2013
Reviewed by Lilian Gafni
ANTics is a delightful tale for children 7+, of a colony of ANTs in the forest that kept me reading to learn of the fate of three small ANTs. The colony of ANTs lived in InhabitANT lane under a tree, with the trio of friends, Zube, short for ExuberANT, his smart friend called Brill from BrilliANT and the little cadet named HesitANT. On his way to meet his friend Brill, Zube has to cross in a hurry the forbidden QuadrANT where the Fairweather family, called Two Legs, lives in a Cottage. Many ANTS had been killed in the forbidden QuadrANT by Two Legged creatures, squashing them as the little ANTs tried to cross a gravel path.
When Zube finally finds his friend Brill, the small cadet HesitANT follows the two. Zube at first objects having HesitANT tag along. HesitANT has been known to be scared of his own shadow and not adventurous as Zube and Brill, but the little fellow keeps trying to emulate his grown-up friends. Convinced by Brill that HesitANT needs the experience of the older friends, Zube relents.
The trio of friends then embarks on a trek to find a berry and bring it back to feed the colony, and the three friends walk to the nearby forest to forage for food. The reward is great, for one berry can feed hundreds of ANTs. The only problem with this escapade for the three friends is that the forest was full of dangers where creepy crawlers and monsters can snare them at any moment. The most serious and present danger looms from a detestable spider called RepugnANT or Puggy for short. This is one of the most vicious spiders with a vendetta to catch the trio and make ANT soup out of them.
From that time on, it's a frightening roller coaster ride throughout he rest of the story for the three friends, relying on their wits to run away from Puggy in hot pursuit of defenseless and small ANTs. The author has written a highly creative story in the style of "Watership Down" where small animals are at the mercy of humans and bigger creatures than themselves. I can see this story of courage made into a wonderful movie. This book is highly recommended for parents and children and merits much more than five stars!
I was given a copy of this book by the author for review.
Reviewed by Lilian Gafni
ANTics is a delightful tale for children 7+, of a colony of ANTs in the forest that kept me reading to learn of the fate of three small ANTs. The colony of ANTs lived in InhabitANT lane under a tree, with the trio of friends, Zube, short for ExuberANT, his smart friend called Brill from BrilliANT and the little cadet named HesitANT. On his way to meet his friend Brill, Zube has to cross in a hurry the forbidden QuadrANT where the Fairweather family, called Two Legs, lives in a Cottage. Many ANTS had been killed in the forbidden QuadrANT by Two Legged creatures, squashing them as the little ANTs tried to cross a gravel path.
When Zube finally finds his friend Brill, the small cadet HesitANT follows the two. Zube at first objects having HesitANT tag along. HesitANT has been known to be scared of his own shadow and not adventurous as Zube and Brill, but the little fellow keeps trying to emulate his grown-up friends. Convinced by Brill that HesitANT needs the experience of the older friends, Zube relents.
The trio of friends then embarks on a trek to find a berry and bring it back to feed the colony, and the three friends walk to the nearby forest to forage for food. The reward is great, for one berry can feed hundreds of ANTs. The only problem with this escapade for the three friends is that the forest was full of dangers where creepy crawlers and monsters can snare them at any moment. The most serious and present danger looms from a detestable spider called RepugnANT or Puggy for short. This is one of the most vicious spiders with a vendetta to catch the trio and make ANT soup out of them.
From that time on, it's a frightening roller coaster ride throughout he rest of the story for the three friends, relying on their wits to run away from Puggy in hot pursuit of defenseless and small ANTs. The author has written a highly creative story in the style of "Watership Down" where small animals are at the mercy of humans and bigger creatures than themselves. I can see this story of courage made into a wonderful movie. This book is highly recommended for parents and children and merits much more than five stars!
I was given a copy of this book by the author for review.
July 8, 2013
ANTics is an adventure fantasy in the classic style specifically aimed at younger readers. It has a quest, heroic deeds of derring-do, an evil nemesis with seemingly magical powers and enough action to keep even the most demanding of young readers entertained. All this is set in, and around, an ant colony at the bottom of an English country garden.
This story is very cleverly written and never underestimates the intelligence and sophistication of its target audience. From the point of view of a critical adult, the story is extremely well constructed. Well defined characters and scenery help to make it an enjoyable reading experience. I particularly liked the way that the author sometimes interleaved perspectives between chapters.
The anthropomorphisation (oops, I’ve a feeling I just made up a word but, I hope you get the idea) is never exaggerated or unbelievable. You, therefore, feel real empathy for the ants as battle through their various tribulations. The story is well paced and was steady enough to keep my seven year old absorbed over the several nights I read it as his bedtime story.
There is also a strong educational thread running through the book. This is wonderfully woven into the fabric of the story and does not interfere with it in any way. Before the reader realizes it they are far more knowledgeable about ants, and other residents of ‘the crawly kingdom’, than they were before they began reading. Even a social issue like bullying is dealt with in the same delicate fashion and does not compromise the integrity of the narrative.
Personally, I found the constant jeopardy quite wearing and I prefer my adventures to be a little more episodic. I like it when the danger and peril is continuous rather than continual. In other words, a couple of less potentially lethal chapters would have suited my tastes better. That being said, however, the story was not aimed at me, now was it? My son did not seem to share my reservations. He was engaged, entertained and informed. What more could a parent want from a book? This is a great book that really hits its mark.
This story is very cleverly written and never underestimates the intelligence and sophistication of its target audience. From the point of view of a critical adult, the story is extremely well constructed. Well defined characters and scenery help to make it an enjoyable reading experience. I particularly liked the way that the author sometimes interleaved perspectives between chapters.
The anthropomorphisation (oops, I’ve a feeling I just made up a word but, I hope you get the idea) is never exaggerated or unbelievable. You, therefore, feel real empathy for the ants as battle through their various tribulations. The story is well paced and was steady enough to keep my seven year old absorbed over the several nights I read it as his bedtime story.
There is also a strong educational thread running through the book. This is wonderfully woven into the fabric of the story and does not interfere with it in any way. Before the reader realizes it they are far more knowledgeable about ants, and other residents of ‘the crawly kingdom’, than they were before they began reading. Even a social issue like bullying is dealt with in the same delicate fashion and does not compromise the integrity of the narrative.
Personally, I found the constant jeopardy quite wearing and I prefer my adventures to be a little more episodic. I like it when the danger and peril is continuous rather than continual. In other words, a couple of less potentially lethal chapters would have suited my tastes better. That being said, however, the story was not aimed at me, now was it? My son did not seem to share my reservations. He was engaged, entertained and informed. What more could a parent want from a book? This is a great book that really hits its mark.
July 18, 2013
ANTics is a charming story about a colony of ants who live in inhabitANT, and revolves around a trio of young ants who eager to win their foraging flag set out on a hunting and foraging mission in order to bring back food for their colony. I love the three little scouts Zube (ExhuberANT) and his pals BrilliANT and HesitANT, they are really endearing with their human qualities and school boy mannerisms. In fact they remind me of my son when he was a LOT younger!
Set in an English country garden, the book has a very traditional, and dare I say, stereotypical British feel about it with references to the royal nursery, the Queen ant, and Dickens the ginger cat, I would maybe have liked the setting to be somewhere a little less obvious, but that is just me.
The author does however successfully deal with several important themes, I LOVE the way death is delicately portrayed with the leafy flag flying at half mast where an ant was squashed. The ant's daily struggle to survive against the odds is also very realistic and moving. The fact that there are also girl soldiers, and that fighting is not just something the boys do also gained the story extra brownie points from me! Zube's relationship with his mother is also briefly touched upon, and we learn that she thinks she needs more discipline, as a parent with a child in the book's target audience range I could totally relate to that, and more importantly my 8-year-old daughter could relate to it too! RepugnANT (Puggy) the murderous spider who kills for fun, was also described in such delicious detail that I didn't know whether I wanted to run, or take him on!! The chapter endings are also very well written, with sufficient hooks to keep wandering young minds wanting more.
I would maybe have liked some illustrations in this book, however overall this is a well written story for youngsters aged 7 plus, successfully dealing with some important themes in a light-hearted and fun manner, and I would have no hesitation about buying this book as a gift for my daughter's friends.
I am offering free interviews and reviews for indie authors find out more at www.ingridhall.com
Set in an English country garden, the book has a very traditional, and dare I say, stereotypical British feel about it with references to the royal nursery, the Queen ant, and Dickens the ginger cat, I would maybe have liked the setting to be somewhere a little less obvious, but that is just me.
The author does however successfully deal with several important themes, I LOVE the way death is delicately portrayed with the leafy flag flying at half mast where an ant was squashed. The ant's daily struggle to survive against the odds is also very realistic and moving. The fact that there are also girl soldiers, and that fighting is not just something the boys do also gained the story extra brownie points from me! Zube's relationship with his mother is also briefly touched upon, and we learn that she thinks she needs more discipline, as a parent with a child in the book's target audience range I could totally relate to that, and more importantly my 8-year-old daughter could relate to it too! RepugnANT (Puggy) the murderous spider who kills for fun, was also described in such delicious detail that I didn't know whether I wanted to run, or take him on!! The chapter endings are also very well written, with sufficient hooks to keep wandering young minds wanting more.
I would maybe have liked some illustrations in this book, however overall this is a well written story for youngsters aged 7 plus, successfully dealing with some important themes in a light-hearted and fun manner, and I would have no hesitation about buying this book as a gift for my daughter's friends.
I am offering free interviews and reviews for indie authors find out more at www.ingridhall.com
September 2, 2014
Antics by Dakota Douglas is a wonderful tale about three young ants who leave their nest on a foraging expedition.
The trio, Zube, Brill and HesitANT, manage to escape the wicked spider, RepungnANT’s, (nicknamed Puggy) web only to find themselves battling Mrs Fairweather’s vacuum cleaner and learning about the wonders of other human inventions.
The adventure continues and the young ants find themselves floating down the river with the spider close behind. They cleverly use their wits and out-smart him again. There are even more adventures including a cat fight, being trapped in a tin can and other strange and imaginative things.
This story also offers a valuable lesson about bullying and so-called cowardice. One of the ants, HesitANT, is so named because he’s not willing to join in and is not as forward as many other ants. He is bullied by the other ants and it is obvious that he has low self-esteem and confidence. Zube and Brill, however, are willing to give him a chance and although there are some misgivings, HesitANT ends up having to face the hideous spider and outwit him on his own.
We meet some other interesting creatures too. There’s the friendly worm named by the ants, PleasANT and the beautiful butterfly ElegANT.
The author cleverly uses words that end in ‘ant’ to name her characters. These names also give the reader an idea about the types of personalities each character has. For example, Zube’s full name is ExuberANT.
This book clearly has an educational component but the details of ant life are cleverly woven throughout the tale. Young readers will, not only be impressed with this information, they will be delighted with the antics of the three heroes.
Teachers and parents will really appreciate the interactive ideas presented at the end of this book, too.
I, for one, am going to put my vote forward for the name of the characters in the next book. I would highly recommend you all do the same.
I’m looking forward to reading it.
The trio, Zube, Brill and HesitANT, manage to escape the wicked spider, RepungnANT’s, (nicknamed Puggy) web only to find themselves battling Mrs Fairweather’s vacuum cleaner and learning about the wonders of other human inventions.
The adventure continues and the young ants find themselves floating down the river with the spider close behind. They cleverly use their wits and out-smart him again. There are even more adventures including a cat fight, being trapped in a tin can and other strange and imaginative things.
This story also offers a valuable lesson about bullying and so-called cowardice. One of the ants, HesitANT, is so named because he’s not willing to join in and is not as forward as many other ants. He is bullied by the other ants and it is obvious that he has low self-esteem and confidence. Zube and Brill, however, are willing to give him a chance and although there are some misgivings, HesitANT ends up having to face the hideous spider and outwit him on his own.
We meet some other interesting creatures too. There’s the friendly worm named by the ants, PleasANT and the beautiful butterfly ElegANT.
The author cleverly uses words that end in ‘ant’ to name her characters. These names also give the reader an idea about the types of personalities each character has. For example, Zube’s full name is ExuberANT.
This book clearly has an educational component but the details of ant life are cleverly woven throughout the tale. Young readers will, not only be impressed with this information, they will be delighted with the antics of the three heroes.
Teachers and parents will really appreciate the interactive ideas presented at the end of this book, too.
I, for one, am going to put my vote forward for the name of the characters in the next book. I would highly recommend you all do the same.
I’m looking forward to reading it.
March 10, 2014
EnchANTing: ANTics by Dakota Douglas
ANTics is a story about 3 ants, BrillANT, ExuberANT and Hesitant and their adventures as they attempt to defeat Puggy, the spider.
The story is very easy going to read and flows in a way that is appropriate for children from about age 7 upwards. (I am not by any means an expert on this but I think this is around about the right age!)
The quirky features of the story like the names of the ants and their home InhabitANT are wonderful and are a brilliant way for children to learn the meanings of new words and expand their vocabulary (They are also amusing for any adults who may be helping out on the way!) The inclusion of characters of other species such as PleasANT and ElegANT are helpful in the plot and create a broad range of personalities that open up a whole realm of possibilities for future plots.
PleasANT is my favourite character (for obvious reasons ;) ) and I’m sure that kids will become quickly attached to their favourite. The main characters, Brill, Zube and HesistANT provide three different personalities that will provide a relateable character for any reader. They are warm and will make any child feel enthusiastic about the contents of their garden. The thoughts of the ants will also bring children to the ants’ level and allow them to imagine what things are like when you are that small.
The pace of the plot is good and the story keeps the excitement moving. The only quibble I have is that Douglas could have made more use of the two-legs’ house, but you never know this may be in the next book! As I have previously said excitement is easily kept and it is more than difficult to prevent yourself from wanting to know what is going to happen to the ants! Parents will be just as interested as their children!
ONE SENTENCE: Children will be enthralled in this backyard-world.
Imogen for Worm's Magical Library of Books
ANTics is a story about 3 ants, BrillANT, ExuberANT and Hesitant and their adventures as they attempt to defeat Puggy, the spider.
The story is very easy going to read and flows in a way that is appropriate for children from about age 7 upwards. (I am not by any means an expert on this but I think this is around about the right age!)
The quirky features of the story like the names of the ants and their home InhabitANT are wonderful and are a brilliant way for children to learn the meanings of new words and expand their vocabulary (They are also amusing for any adults who may be helping out on the way!) The inclusion of characters of other species such as PleasANT and ElegANT are helpful in the plot and create a broad range of personalities that open up a whole realm of possibilities for future plots.
PleasANT is my favourite character (for obvious reasons ;) ) and I’m sure that kids will become quickly attached to their favourite. The main characters, Brill, Zube and HesistANT provide three different personalities that will provide a relateable character for any reader. They are warm and will make any child feel enthusiastic about the contents of their garden. The thoughts of the ants will also bring children to the ants’ level and allow them to imagine what things are like when you are that small.
The pace of the plot is good and the story keeps the excitement moving. The only quibble I have is that Douglas could have made more use of the two-legs’ house, but you never know this may be in the next book! As I have previously said excitement is easily kept and it is more than difficult to prevent yourself from wanting to know what is going to happen to the ants! Parents will be just as interested as their children!
ONE SENTENCE: Children will be enthralled in this backyard-world.
Imogen for Worm's Magical Library of Books
May 17, 2013
ANTics is a book for children years 7 plus. I struggled to decide if this book would be suitable for that age group at first because of big words like “Exuberant” “Repugnant” etc. Of course this makes the book fun for a wider age group and for parents who may be reading this to their child as a bed time story and I don’t think a young child would mind too much, it’d just be a fun name for a character.
ANTics follows an ant colony called InhabitANT and three little ants who go off on an adventure; ExuberANT (Zube), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT. I found this particularly clever because it shows that the author has really put some thought into the book, matching personalities to names and even going so far as to make their surroundings work with InhabitANT and those living there OccupANTs.
I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to others. If I at twenty-two years old can enjoy the book then anybody younger certainly can! The book is well written with only a few spelling mistakes. There was an error in my copy of the book which I have had contact from the author about and she is working with smashwords to correct the error. It’s only in some of them so it may be a part of the conversion process.
At the end of the book Dakota asks her readers to put together a new ant name for the hero of the story (read to find out who!) and a newspaper article about what happened. She even starts the article to help get creative juices flowing. I think this is both commendable for an author to do, and fun for any child who has read a book. It really gets the kids involved and their minds working. I think any child would be delighted to open a book and find their ideas inside it!
Very enjoyable book by a lovely woman, I’m looking forward to reading more by Dakota Douglas.
ANTics follows an ant colony called InhabitANT and three little ants who go off on an adventure; ExuberANT (Zube), BrilliANT (Brill) and HesitANT. I found this particularly clever because it shows that the author has really put some thought into the book, matching personalities to names and even going so far as to make their surroundings work with InhabitANT and those living there OccupANTs.
I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to others. If I at twenty-two years old can enjoy the book then anybody younger certainly can! The book is well written with only a few spelling mistakes. There was an error in my copy of the book which I have had contact from the author about and she is working with smashwords to correct the error. It’s only in some of them so it may be a part of the conversion process.
At the end of the book Dakota asks her readers to put together a new ant name for the hero of the story (read to find out who!) and a newspaper article about what happened. She even starts the article to help get creative juices flowing. I think this is both commendable for an author to do, and fun for any child who has read a book. It really gets the kids involved and their minds working. I think any child would be delighted to open a book and find their ideas inside it!
Very enjoyable book by a lovely woman, I’m looking forward to reading more by Dakota Douglas.
December 15, 2014
“ANTics” by Dakota Douglas is a wonderful book which has successfully been geared for its intended audience of children between the ages of 7 and 11 regardless of whether they’re a boy or a girl. The book deals with serious topics which directly affects the daily lives of these children.
Having been a Sociology major in college I love the sociological and psychological mapping of these problems unto a society of ANTs which made learning how to deal with problems easier for the book’s young readers to understand.
Trying to “teach” a young reader how to deal with these daily issues they might face each day is not as easy as you might think it is. To begin with an author cAN’T simply write about these topics; they must be sure of two things.
First, they must be sure that they’re not talking down to its young reader. If they do, believe or not the reader will know it and shut down to what’s being said in what they’re reading.
Second, they must be sure that they’re not hitting its young reader over the head with the lesson[s] they book is trying to convey. This is another reason why a child might lose interest in what they’re reading.
Ms. Douglas’ book has succeeded to overcoming these hurdles to make the book what it is. A GREAT TEACHER.
While books like these can be used as a great tool to communicate certain topics to a child, there is a downside. The downside is getting someone [parents] to buy them.
For the effort, Ms. Douglas has made in producing this book, I’m happy to give it 5 STARS.
Robin Leigh Morgan is the author of a recently released book entitled "Micro Fiction - An Anthology," as well as the author of a MG/YA Paranormal Romance novel entitled "I Kissed a Ghost."
Having been a Sociology major in college I love the sociological and psychological mapping of these problems unto a society of ANTs which made learning how to deal with problems easier for the book’s young readers to understand.
Trying to “teach” a young reader how to deal with these daily issues they might face each day is not as easy as you might think it is. To begin with an author cAN’T simply write about these topics; they must be sure of two things.
First, they must be sure that they’re not talking down to its young reader. If they do, believe or not the reader will know it and shut down to what’s being said in what they’re reading.
Second, they must be sure that they’re not hitting its young reader over the head with the lesson[s] they book is trying to convey. This is another reason why a child might lose interest in what they’re reading.
Ms. Douglas’ book has succeeded to overcoming these hurdles to make the book what it is. A GREAT TEACHER.
While books like these can be used as a great tool to communicate certain topics to a child, there is a downside. The downside is getting someone [parents] to buy them.
For the effort, Ms. Douglas has made in producing this book, I’m happy to give it 5 STARS.
Robin Leigh Morgan is the author of a recently released book entitled "Micro Fiction - An Anthology," as well as the author of a MG/YA Paranormal Romance novel entitled "I Kissed a Ghost."
September 23, 2012
This is a really cool story about a kingdom of ant whose inhavitANTS have the most creative names I have ever seen. This intriguing and fun story is quite refreshing, and a cute concept for the children’s market. ANTics is a well-done tale that will enchant boys and girls in elementary school and some older kids too. ANTics is a great written work that will teach love friendship and unity to our kids. These are values that many children don’t have these days when parents don’t have the time to teach them.
The story starts when one ant, named ExuberANT, is trying to take a short cut on his way to his friend’s, BrilliANT, who awaits impatiently in the other side. He chooses to disobey orders and crosses the human family’s patio where many other ants have found death under the shoes of the two-footed people. He learned that day that rules are placed for a good reason. But that isn’t what the book is about. The story gets better when these two ants befriend a lonely, small, picked-on ant by the name HesitANT. Between the three, they get in trouble by making their deathly enemy, RepugnANT, mad. He’s a huge magical spider. The beast is cruel, strong, and deadly. The three friends are chased, trapped, and almost drowned in the pages of this book, all the way to a very interesting end—where you will find the real hero in the story.
ANTics has all the important ingredients to make it a favorite of parents, teachers, and children alike. I recommended it for any private or public library. Excellent work.
The story starts when one ant, named ExuberANT, is trying to take a short cut on his way to his friend’s, BrilliANT, who awaits impatiently in the other side. He chooses to disobey orders and crosses the human family’s patio where many other ants have found death under the shoes of the two-footed people. He learned that day that rules are placed for a good reason. But that isn’t what the book is about. The story gets better when these two ants befriend a lonely, small, picked-on ant by the name HesitANT. Between the three, they get in trouble by making their deathly enemy, RepugnANT, mad. He’s a huge magical spider. The beast is cruel, strong, and deadly. The three friends are chased, trapped, and almost drowned in the pages of this book, all the way to a very interesting end—where you will find the real hero in the story.
ANTics has all the important ingredients to make it a favorite of parents, teachers, and children alike. I recommended it for any private or public library. Excellent work.
February 20, 2014
ANTicipating the sequel!
With some trepidation, I downloaded the kindle version of this for my seven year old son who is, like most seven year old boys, impatient with any book that does not grab him immediately. He wants lots of action, excitement and believable characters. I want that too, but also something that will stretch him emotionally and academically and won't send me to sleep when we're reading together!
I needn't have worried. Yes, as reviewers have already said, the book is very well written: there are some beautiful passages of description. Yes, it is also educational on a variety of levels: there are moral dilemmas to discuss and issues of friendship, bullying, courage and acceptance. More important than all of this, though, is the fact that ANTICS is a really great story.
My son loved Zube, Brill and, particularly, little HesitANT and gripped my arm as we read of their dangerous journey and narrow escapes. RepugnANT, the spider, is suitably evil and scheming. Douglas manages to make the villain's threats menacing without making the spider too horrific and the heroes are brave and funny without being too cavalier.
I'd recommend this to any parent of 6 to 8 year olds - just so long as you haven't got plans in the evening because once you start this story with your kids you'll be reading every night, for a LONG time, until you finish.
With some trepidation, I downloaded the kindle version of this for my seven year old son who is, like most seven year old boys, impatient with any book that does not grab him immediately. He wants lots of action, excitement and believable characters. I want that too, but also something that will stretch him emotionally and academically and won't send me to sleep when we're reading together!
I needn't have worried. Yes, as reviewers have already said, the book is very well written: there are some beautiful passages of description. Yes, it is also educational on a variety of levels: there are moral dilemmas to discuss and issues of friendship, bullying, courage and acceptance. More important than all of this, though, is the fact that ANTICS is a really great story.
My son loved Zube, Brill and, particularly, little HesitANT and gripped my arm as we read of their dangerous journey and narrow escapes. RepugnANT, the spider, is suitably evil and scheming. Douglas manages to make the villain's threats menacing without making the spider too horrific and the heroes are brave and funny without being too cavalier.
I'd recommend this to any parent of 6 to 8 year olds - just so long as you haven't got plans in the evening because once you start this story with your kids you'll be reading every night, for a LONG time, until you finish.
May 6, 2016
Overall this is a great children's book!
Description: Three friendly ants set out on a expedition to find food for their colony. They meet some strangers who are nice like a pleasant worm and a helpful butterfly but also some strangers who are evil like the spider Puggy who wishes to eat them. They encourage each other and work together to accomplish impossible tasks and find their way home safely.
In Short: This book is about the journey of a group of 3 ants with their own unique personalities. It features the following themes: good vs. evil, bullies, friendship, teamwork, self-confidence, and vengeance destroys the avenger. It is a great story where the little guy gets to become a hero. It shows you should never bully someone for not being like you and not to underestimate anyone. We are all capable of great things. This is a great bedtime story.
Pros: This book is highly entertaining and has a fast paced, exciting plot. The messages in the story are positive and can be related to real life. The book is very well written and lets you let's you enjoy the world from an ant's point of view while also showing how these same events appear to us humans, this helps children comprehend everything going on. It features fun "ant" puns for the names of the characters.
I was given a free copy of this book in return for my honest review.
Full review at: ODBookReviews.blogspot.com
Description: Three friendly ants set out on a expedition to find food for their colony. They meet some strangers who are nice like a pleasant worm and a helpful butterfly but also some strangers who are evil like the spider Puggy who wishes to eat them. They encourage each other and work together to accomplish impossible tasks and find their way home safely.
In Short: This book is about the journey of a group of 3 ants with their own unique personalities. It features the following themes: good vs. evil, bullies, friendship, teamwork, self-confidence, and vengeance destroys the avenger. It is a great story where the little guy gets to become a hero. It shows you should never bully someone for not being like you and not to underestimate anyone. We are all capable of great things. This is a great bedtime story.
Pros: This book is highly entertaining and has a fast paced, exciting plot. The messages in the story are positive and can be related to real life. The book is very well written and lets you let's you enjoy the world from an ant's point of view while also showing how these same events appear to us humans, this helps children comprehend everything going on. It features fun "ant" puns for the names of the characters.
I was given a free copy of this book in return for my honest review.
Full review at: ODBookReviews.blogspot.com
April 9, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It's a while since I read a children's book, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The story itself deserves a strong five stars, however some editing issues lose it marks. I love the author's imagination in creating names for the ants which all end in ANT: such as DominANT, BrilliANT, HesitANT ... you get the gist. This story seems to me to be an excellent one for readers moving onto full text books from picture books. The chapters are nice and short, and the language understandable. The story deals with issues of bullying and loss, and handles both well.
On the editing side, there are a few instances of comma splicing, as well as full stops where there should be commas. Also, the writing style is passive in nature. The proofreading is done to a good standard. Normally, below par editing would warrant a three or at the most a three and a half star rating, but the rest of the book was so fantastic it gets a strong four stars from me.
I would definitely look out for more books by this fabulous children's writer, and can't wait for the next installmANT (okay, slight liberty with the spelling there!) of ANTics. A huge thumbs up from Harmony :)
It's a while since I read a children's book, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The story itself deserves a strong five stars, however some editing issues lose it marks. I love the author's imagination in creating names for the ants which all end in ANT: such as DominANT, BrilliANT, HesitANT ... you get the gist. This story seems to me to be an excellent one for readers moving onto full text books from picture books. The chapters are nice and short, and the language understandable. The story deals with issues of bullying and loss, and handles both well.
On the editing side, there are a few instances of comma splicing, as well as full stops where there should be commas. Also, the writing style is passive in nature. The proofreading is done to a good standard. Normally, below par editing would warrant a three or at the most a three and a half star rating, but the rest of the book was so fantastic it gets a strong four stars from me.
I would definitely look out for more books by this fabulous children's writer, and can't wait for the next installmANT (okay, slight liberty with the spelling there!) of ANTics. A huge thumbs up from Harmony :)
May 18, 2013
I loved reading ANTics! As an adult, I found it quick paced and full of adrenal rushing moments. As a secondary teacher of English Literature, I think this book will be a perfect fit for children grades 3 - 5, especially adventurous boys. All too often, and quite unfortunately, children matriculate into middle schools and they are reading below grade level. There are many reasons that this happens, but there is one specific reason which I feel Douglas' book will help alleviate. Often young readers do not read because they are not offered books which grab and hold their interest. The attention span of young minds is hard to gain and even harder to hold. Douglas' book will capture and hold the attention of young minds. Additionally, young minds will be exposed to some of the inner-workings of the ant kingdom in a manner which doesn't slow down or detract from the story that is being told.
I highly recommend ANTics!
You can read an excerpt from the book review posted here (http://www.valcine.com/2013/05/17/ant...).
I highly recommend ANTics!
You can read an excerpt from the book review posted here (http://www.valcine.com/2013/05/17/ant...).
December 13, 2013
I'm really impressed with Douglas's marketing and networking. She really knows how to get her work out there. (Thanks for the copy!)
Unfortunately, I could only make it through two chapters. I thought the names might have been clever without the caps. (Example: BrilliANT should have been Brilli ant.) All the abnormal capital letters really bugged me, like the author was screaming, look how clever I am!
The writing was okay, but it felt like she couldn't decide if she was writing a picture book or a middle grade novel. The prose was mostly in a narrator "telling" style of a picture book, but it was much too long and didn't have any pictures! My advice would be to cut it to the bare bones and add illustrations, or flush it out and make it more scene than narration.
I gave it an extra star because it did have some cool facts about ants. If you have any middle grade readers that are obsessed with bugs,give this one a try. Otherwise, don't.
Unfortunately, I could only make it through two chapters. I thought the names might have been clever without the caps. (Example: BrilliANT should have been Brilli ant.) All the abnormal capital letters really bugged me, like the author was screaming, look how clever I am!
The writing was okay, but it felt like she couldn't decide if she was writing a picture book or a middle grade novel. The prose was mostly in a narrator "telling" style of a picture book, but it was much too long and didn't have any pictures! My advice would be to cut it to the bare bones and add illustrations, or flush it out and make it more scene than narration.
I gave it an extra star because it did have some cool facts about ants. If you have any middle grade readers that are obsessed with bugs,give this one a try. Otherwise, don't.
August 29, 2013
ANTics is the story of three young ants, one of whom is shy, reserved, and lacks confidence in himself. Throughout this exciting children's story, the three friends are pursued by Puggy, a stinky spider who wants nothing more than to make a snack out of them. Relying on each other's strengths, the three friends are finally able to outwit the spider.
There are some important lessons that are taught in this story, such as teamwork, the value of true friendship, the importance of community cohesion, and courage. The story also teaches that the best way to help someone gain confidence is to give them the opportunity to be successful.
There are a couple of interactive activities at the end of the book, encouraging kids to be creative thinkers and writers. I enjoyed this book a lot, and will share it with my granddaughter when she is a little older.
There are some important lessons that are taught in this story, such as teamwork, the value of true friendship, the importance of community cohesion, and courage. The story also teaches that the best way to help someone gain confidence is to give them the opportunity to be successful.
There are a couple of interactive activities at the end of the book, encouraging kids to be creative thinkers and writers. I enjoyed this book a lot, and will share it with my granddaughter when she is a little older.
October 17, 2013
I liked this book. It was clever. If I would make any changes it would be to add pictures. Also I had my 9 year old granddaughter, who is an avid and good reader, read this book. She felt that at times had too much description and wordiness for younger kids and some of the words would be a little hard to understand for kids. She thought the story was clever. I am not sure what age the author intends this book to be for. When I write kids books I have the problem of always using too big of words. It is possible that this could be remedied with a glossary so this could be a learning experience in that way too. The writer of this book has a very creative mind. I gave it a five because I liked it and I am an adult judging what I read.
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