A Good Place - by Lucy Cousins

Book Synopsis

"Conveys a very important lesson on ecosystem preservation nestled within an engaging story. . . .This is spring story time perfection." --School Library Journal (starred review)

Bee, Ladybug, Beetle, and Dragonfly are looking for somewhere to live. And each has a different want: Bee loves flowers, Ladybug prefers leaves, Beetle is fond of dead wood, and Dragonfly likes ponds. But every time they find what seems like the perfect spot--with beautiful flowers, a tiny pond, some dead wood, or gorgeous green leaves--they discover it's underfoot, near traffic, or otherwise not safe. Will these four friends ever find a good place? Lucy Cousins brings her bold artwork and endearing characters to an inviting story that leads to a dazzling conclusion, showing children that even in an urban environment, encouraging wildlife and natural ecosystems can create a healthy and beautiful habitat for all of us.

Review Quotes

Cousins conveys a very important lesson on ecosystem preservation nestled within an engaging story for preschoolers. The illustrations of the crawly critters and their escapades, in her bold and energetic style, make this title a welcome addition to the shelves. . . this is spring story time perfection.
--School Library Journal (starred review)

Caregivers and teachers can use the book as a springboard to discuss insect habitats with youngsters. Cousins sticks to her trademark style of bold, simple, uncluttered gouache pictures against solid backgrounds. . . . A subtly allegorical story about the universal search for home.

--Kirkus Reviews

In Ms. Cousins's vivid illustrations, thick with paint and naif in style, we meet a bee, a ladybug, a dragonfly and a beetle who are all searching for decent accommodation. . . . . 'I can help you, ' says the butterfly, who knows--as children ages 2-5 will delight to see--just the lush, lovely place for the insects to make their new home.
--The Wall Street Journal

Cousins always creates a colorful, engaging world, and her new title, 'A Good Place, ' is no exception.
--The Florida Times-Union

With good cheer (and zero lecturing), Cousins makes the case for making the world a friendly place for the little creatures, and for the joy humans can find in making a home for them and observing them.
--The Virginian Pilot

About the Author

Lucy Cousins is the creator of the beloved Maisy series as well as a series about Little Fish. She is also the author-illustrator of the widely acclaimed Yummy: Eight Favorite Fairy Tales, a New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children's Book of the Year, as well as Let's Play Monsters!; I'm the Best; Hooray for Fish!; Hooray for Birds!; and Splish, Splash, Ducky!