Do Butterflies Sleep? Readers' Favorite 5 Star Review

5 Stars - Congratulations on your 5-star review! 

Reviewed by David Korson for Readers’ Favorite

Do Butterflies Sleep? by Janice Garden Macdonald is a charming picture book that pre-readers and emerging readers will fall in love with. The storyline details an eventful day in the life of an active butterfly from morning to night, and the tale ends by answering the question, "Do butterflies sleep?" Butterfly’s morning is occupied with activities children can relate to, such as eating breakfast, washing up, and getting on a bus that will take the fluttering insect to school. The afternoon’s events include reading, playtime, and interaction with a diverse group of friendly animals, while the nighttime appropriately leads to bedtime.

Attractive and captivating artwork brings this story to life, featuring a variety of glossy-eyed forest animals taking part in everyday activities. It’s hard for me to imagine that the adorable image of a jolly, floppy-eared bunny wearing glasses won’t bring a smile to the face of any child or adult. The poetic text can be effortlessly read aloud, and each rhyming stanza features short sentences with manageable words for beginning readers. Many important themes are highlighted in the story, like attending school, socializing with others that may be different, maintaining healthy routines, and taking on challenging tasks with bravery, optimism, and confidence. Rounding out Janice Garden Macdonald’s uplifting book are a few interesting fun facts and interactive questions to engage curious kids in a thoughtful and lively discussion. For a rewarding story with enchanting illustrations, Do Butterflies Sleep? is a delightful story that you and your children will want to read over and over again.