BEETLE BOY

When young Gregory Samson changes overnight into a giant beetle, it leaves him feeling anything but “snug as a bug in a rug.” Despite Gregory’s insistence regarding the changes that have overcome him, his parents, sister, teacher, and classmates notice no difference. Only his best friend, Michael, actually sees Gregory’s six legs, and helps him to identify himself in a library book as a carabus problematicus, or a ground beetle. Gregory’s family is forced to recognize his insect attributes when, in desperation, he crawls into the corner of the ceiling to cry. They love him anyway, and such affirmations help restore him to human form. Not surprisingly, David (The Good Little Girl, 1998, etc.) lists “Metamorphosis” as his inspiration; Kafka’s tale of insect angst translates splendidly to a story for younger audience. Durand’s illustrations express equally silliness and pathos, making Gregory as endearing as a beetle as he is as a boy. (Picture book. 6-10)