Burt the Beetle Doesn't Bite!

Written and illustrated by Ashley Spires

Book #1 in the Burt the Beetle series

A beetle discovers his unique ability when other bugs' superpowers fail.

4.1 Goodreads · 471 ratings

56 pages· 837 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud· GN530L

$12.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Burt, a ten-lined june beetle, dreams of having superpowers like other insects. Despite lacking strength or venom, he finds himself in a situation where only his unique talent can save his friends. As other bugs' abilities fall short, Burt's unexpected skill shines through. Can a beetle without obvious powers become a hero? Join Burt on his journey of self-discovery and learn that true greatness lies in character, not just abilities. This humorous tale, filled with insect facts, will have young readers cheering for the underdog and exploring what makes each creature special.

From the publisher

Ashley Spires brings her signature deadpan humor to this hilarious story about one bug’s quest for greatness (with some cool insect facts mixed in!). Meet Burt, a ten-lined june beetle. He’s sure he belongs in the category of bugs with superpower-like abilities. No, he can’t carry 50 times his weight, like ants. No, he’s not able to spray paralyzing venom, like some termites. No, he can’t release a bad smell to repel predators, like stink bugs. What june beetles are known for is chasing porch lights and flailing their legs in the air — does that count? Hmm … Maybe Burt will just have to accept the truth. June beetles don’t have any special abilities. But when some other bugs find themselves in perilous trouble that even their superpowers can’t get them out of, Burt suddenly realizes there is one thing that he can do to save his friends — and it’s something that only a june beetle can do! Bestselling author-illustrator Ashley Spires’s signature mix of slapstick and dry humor is front and center in this winning story that highlights how being special is as much about character as it is about abilities. Full of simply drawn panels prominently featuring the ever-plucky Burt, it’s a perfect pick for emerging readers and young fans of comics. Burt’s positive attitude toward himself and others offers many opportunities for character education lessons on caring, positive thinking and initiative. Snuck into the pages are facts about bugs and their traits, making this a fun choice for a science unit on the characteristics of living things.

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