Through the tiny lens of a ladybug, this poetic and enchanting book honors the silent beauty of nature, the value of observation, and the strength of curiosity. In a world filled with zany, fast-paced children’s books, A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs offers a refreshing style that helps children take their time and appreciate the wonder surrounding them.
In this Q&A, we talk with author Amy L. Stark about her process of writing this lyrical, vibrant, and peaceful children’s book that celebrates quiet moments and fosters a lifelong love for nature.
Your book beautifully showcases the world of ladybugs. What inspired you to center the story around these tiny creatures, and what message do you hope readers take away about nature?
The book is based on what happened to me as a child. I took an active interest in ladybugs after continually finding them in my bedroom. I love gardening and have become very aware of how beneficial these tiny creatures are. I hope young readers learn that when we are open, we too can have these marvelous, magical interactions with the world around us.
The story captures a strong sense of childlike wonder. How do you balance scientific accuracy with imaginative storytelling to engage young readers?
I think magic as a possibility should always be held dear to every child, and adult, hopefully. It’s also important to find out facts about the world around us. For example, in the book, we learn that ladybugs have a life cycle and live about one year. It’s fun to find out everything we can.
How do you envision parents, teachers, or caregivers using this book to spark conversations or curiosity about insects and ecosystems?
First, the book should be fun. I believe everything can come out of fun and a little bit of mystery. Second, who doesn’t like ladybugs? They are colorful and very likable. Kids love to draw them, and they are not harmful in any way – they don’t bite and are fun to watch. Most children love ladybugs because they have the most interaction with them. This makes it easier to teach something about them that kids will remember. The story includes how the parents got involved and how the ladybug information was used in a classroom. It’s a natural conversation starter about the importance of backyard habitats for butterflies and pollinators. It’s also important to remind all of us to put our devices aside every day and go outside. Balancing technology use with being in the natural world helps all of us to live fuller, healthier lives.
What’s something unexpected you learned about ladybugs during the process of writing this book?
I was surprised to learn ladybugs had a life cycle that involved transformation. I also did not know they lived for one year and found that surprising. The most awesome thing I learned is that a group of ladybugs is called a loveliness.
You worked with Illustrator Moran Reudor, what was that collaborative process like? How did you ensure the visuals matched the story’s magic?
My illustrator is so wonderful. We shared the storyline and ideas about what should be on the page and which time period it should be and she created something delightful. Moran Reudor is a joy to work with. This is our second collaboration, and this book is as magical as the last one. (Illustrated children’s book You are More Than: A Primer for Finding Light in Your Heart)
What advice would you give to children who, like the narrator, are curious about the small wonders around them?
Go outside. Help your family create a garden for pollinators. Even if you have a small patio, you can create something wondrous. Once you have created your outside area, spend some time there every day. That way you can get to know the birds, butterflies, and any animal activity you are attracting. Create a journal and take notes every time you are out there so you can remember what you saw.
How do you personally cultivate a sense of wonder in your everyday life—and how does that influence your writing?
I have a lovely pollinator garden outside my front door. I spend time there every day, watching butterflies, ladybugs and bluebirds. I love taking care of plants and marveling at the beauty of nature. As a child psychologist, every client who comes to my office has a chance to enjoy the garden as well. My garden serves as an encouragement for them to create something at their home to enjoy. I also have children and families who live nearby and come by several times each week to visit and enjoy the garden. It gives the whole family a mini destination while they are out on their evening walk. Occasionally, they find a ladybug or see a monarch butterfly – and that is a sight to behold.
Amy L. Stark, Ph.D. is a highly respected clinical psychologist based in California. She received her doctorate from the California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego. Her background in education is in child psychology. Dr. Stark is best known for her work with children in high-conflict divorce situations.
Her newest illustrated children’s book, A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs, is based on a true story about a little girl who finds her bedroom filled with ladybugs. This is Dr. Stark’s eighth children’s book. In 2024, her book You are More Than: A Primer for Finding the Light in Your Heart won the prestigious Nautilus Book Silver Award. You are More Than inspires children to connect with people, nature and the world, to help find their purpose.
Dr. Stark also published a series of books helping kids with self-esteem. Whole Heart for Girls, Whole Heart for Young Women and Whole Heart for Boys help children and teens feel good about themselves. She facilitates Whole Heart for Girls self-esteem workshops for Girl Scouts and other groups. Each of the Whole Heart books in the series includes a discussion guide for parents to have conversations with their children.
Her first illustrated children’s story, The Fairy Godmother Next Door, was published in 2015 with two more books in the series available now: The Fairy Godmother Babysits and The Fairy Godmother Helps the Monarchs.
Dr. Stark appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show many years ago to discuss her business book, Because I Said So, about how office life can represent the characteristics of a dysfunctional family. Her expertise is sought after and published in U.S. News & World Report, Reader’s Digest, Women’s Health and Parenting OC magazine. Follow Dr. Stark on Twitter @drstark.