Hevron, Amy. City of Leafcutter Ants: A Sustainable Society of Millions. Amy Hevron, Illus. Neal Porter, 06/2024. [40]pp. Nonfiction. Trade $18.99. 978-0-82345-318-4. GRADES Kindergarten–3. OUTSTANDING.
The Central American rainforest and the complex, bustling society of leafcutter ants are recreated in digitally collaged, hand-painted vibrant green, rusty red, and brown cut-paper shapes. Readers follow the city’s development above and below ground, from its founding by a single young queen to a population of eight million and the departure of a new young queen. Specific and sophisticated vocabulary personalizes the insects, explores their jobs, and references their important role in the larger ecosystem. While the emphasis is on specialization and cooperation, plenty of intriguing facts and some dramatic action enliven the story. An excellent choice for a science-based readaloud. Back matter includes additional facts, expanded job descriptions, selected bibliography, additional reading, and a note from the author.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired