Mary Anne
by Betsy James

Dutton's Children's Books, 1994
Cloth: ISBN 0-525-45077-7 (Out of Print.)

Awards:
A 1994 School Library Journal Best Book
A 1995 Child Study Children's Book Committee Book of the Year

"A shining example of a science lesson couched within an evocative story...Every library and classroom should have at least one copy of this jewel." -- School Library Journal

Mary Ann and Amy are best friends. When Mary Ann moves away, Amy is sad. But she does find a new friend. This one prefers crickets to banana-marshmallow pancakes and ferns to clubhouses. The new friend is a praying mantis.

Amy names the mantis Mary Ann, after her old playmate, and keeps her in a comfortable terrarium home. Then springtime brings Amy a wish-fulfilling surprise, a last and parting gift from her insect friend.

Combining science with good storytelling, this book is about friendship and overcoming the sadness of losing a pal. It also gives good, practical advice about caring for insects.