Just wanted to share my thoughts on this author and her books, specifically one I just read with my 6 year old son.

Verdi is the story of a young and bright yellow tree python who fears the change into a mature green. The story was fascinating for my son and I and her skills of illustration are beyond beautiful. She truly captures these gorgeous snakes. The lessons about growing up and changing are a great starting point to talk with our Michael about how everything grows up and changes in life.

Here's an interview Ms. Cannon did....

http://www.harcourtbooks.com/AuthorI...iew_Cannon.asp

And a review of this book....

http://www.bookpage.com/9705bp/childrens/verdi.html

She has also written...

http://www.harcourtbooks.com/booksea...anell%20Cannon

Crickwing about a cochroach, Stellaluna about a bat and her newest one which we just finished reading (and completely loved!), Pinduli about a hyena. Each book is as beautifully illustrated by the author as is Verdi and each book has a wonderful life lesson for kids. I love how she's picked creatures that are not usually the choice of children's authors and made them so appealing. Definitely an author I intend to add to our home library and enjoy her books with my grandkids one day.