Synopses & Reviews
This is the fantastic story of Henri Bell, a near-orphan who in 1890 is sent to live with his ancient great-aunt and her extensive button collection. One rainy afternoon, Henri strikes up a conversation with a friendly fly on the windowsill and discovers he possesses the astounding ability to speak with insects. Thus commences an epic journey for Henri as he manages a flea circus, commands an army of beetles, and ultimately sets out to British Malaya to find the mythical giant insect known as Goliathus hercules. Along the way he makes friends both insect and human, and undergoes a strange transformation of his own. Artist Jennifer Angus, known for her Victorian-inspired exhibits of insect specimens, brings her distinctive sensibility to the pages of her first novel.
Review
"Debuting author Angus builds this fantastical premise with well-placed scenes in which Henri's own deep skepticism cleverly encourages the reader to join willingly in his discoveries. . . .accessible for new fantasy readers while offering something different to established fantasy fans." Booklist, April 2013
Review
"This book is well thought out and a joy to read. Children will find Henri and all of his insect friends to be relatable characters. It is a grand adventure, one full of excitement and plenty of questions to keep readers engaged." School Library Journal, February 2013
Review
"Angus, an artist who creates installations using bugs, excels with her insect characters. They liven things up with their often-humorous commentary and fierce loyalty to Henri." Kirkus Reviews, February 1, 2013
Synopsis
Ten-year-old Henri Bell discovers he can speak to insects and, as he travels the world in search of a giant legendary insect, he begins to metamorphose into an insect himself.
About the Author
Jennifer Angus is a professor in the Design Studios department at the University of Wisconsin--Madison. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her art, including Canada Council, Ontario Arts Council, and Wisconsin Arts Board grants. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin. This is her first novel.