Wait and See

Invites readers to sharpen their observation skills… Children will undoubtedly feel compelled to make up fun stories for these personality-filled creepy-crawlies… . A reminder of the wonders we can see in nature if we slow down and pay attention.—Kirkus ReviewsAmazing detail of the plants—showing petals and pistons—and photographs of the praying mantis combined with rhythmic text will draw readers in… . A strong first purchase.—School Library JournalBetween Frost’s advice (“Be still and quiet, / watching”) and Lieder’s photographs, children may be able to start spotting the alien-looking yet beautiful creatures in the wild.—The Horn BookThe tone of the poem is one of wonder and mindfulness… . Kids fascinated by backyard wildlife will appreciate this lyrical offering, which will work well in both poetry units and early science classes.—BooklistThe photographs in ‘Wait - and See’ are stunning, clear and close-up, lingering on the alien eyes and powerful legs of the praying mantis. This ode to the strange creature - told in a book-length poem - is an invitation to step outside and let curiosity be your guide.—The Virginian PilotHelen Frost’s spare poetry is paired beautifully with the spectacular closeup photography of Rick Lieder in this gorgeous book revealing the hidden world of the praying mantis.—The Buffalo News

Helen Frost is the author of four previous books illustrated with Rick Lieder’s nature photography: Step Gently Out, Sweep Up the Sun, Among a Thousand Fireflies, Wake Up!, and Hello, I’m Here! She is also the author of the middle-grade novel in poems Applesauce Weather as well as several other novels in verse for young adults. Her books have received many awards and honors. She lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Rick Lieder has collaborated with Helen Frost on five previous picture books. He is an artist and nature photographer whose work has appeared on the National Geographic Channel. He lives with his wife, writer Kathe Koja, in Michigan.