Every child is fascinated by the ability of fireflies to "light up the night." Scientists do not understand all the processes involved in the production of the light, but they have some clues. In this cheerful boo, Mrs. Hawes, an experienced teacher of young children, presents that information for the youngest reader. She also describes a number of interesting facts about fireflies: they are used as lanterns in Japanese gardens, they have provided the light for an operation, they are used as flashlights in jungles.

Mrs. Hawes helps the child to see what he can do himself with fireflies: catching them, making his own lantern, determining how the insects use the light to find a mate.

Miss Mizumura has caught in her pictures the charm of fireflies, and has, as well, presented an accurate and scientific picture of them.

Here is a phase of nature presented with grace and originality.

From the dust jacket