Butterflies have been a significant part of my life for as long as I can remember. My fascination with them began when I was around seven and has stayed with me for fifty years. I spent hours in nature as a child, exploring and discovering new things. When I wasn’t collecting butterflies, I often read about them.

Princeton University Press has recently introduced a collection of pocket-sized gems called ‘The Little Book of Nature‘ series. One of these treasures is “The Little Book of Butterflies” by Andrei Sourakov and Alexandra A. Sourakov. These books are small enough to slip into your back pocket and are a treasure trove of fantastic information, making them a must-read for any butterfly enthusiast.

While not a traditional field guide, “The Little Book of Butterflies” serves as a delightful gateway into the world of butterflies. As a child, I may not have fully grasped all its contents, but it’s a captivating read as an adult. The book’s design, reminiscent of the beloved Golden Press field guides of my youth, evokes a sense of nostalgia and adds to its charm.

This book is a veritable treasure trove, delving into every aspect of butterflies. It presents information concisely yet comprehensively, ensuring you gain a deep understanding. Once you delve into its pages, you’ll be spellbound, eager to unravel more about these captivating creatures, much like a page-turning mystery novel.

It packs an astonishing amount of information in a small package, covering various topics – anatomy, diversity, reproduction, habitat, and conservation. It also includes curious facts and a section on butterflies in myths, folklore, and modern culture worldwide.

It’s truly amazing how these beautiful and delicate creatures survive, considering all the challenges they face. “The Little Book of Butterflies” is a must-read that instills hope. Whether you observe butterflies visiting your yard as they search for their next meal or plant native flowers for them specifically, no one can deny the joy they bring to all who observe them.

~David Albaugh