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Anatomy
Insect Anatomy: The Curious World of Bees, Beetles, Butterflies, and Bugs
Get a close-up look at the world of insects with the fifth book in Julia Rothman's Anatomy a delightfully illustrated guide to the fascinating insects, bugs, arachnids, and other creatures that populate our planet by the billions.
Millions of species of insects fly, crawl, dig, swarm, and eat on every continent. Our very existence depends on them; without pollinators, we would have no food, and without decomposers, the world would be covered in decaying plant and animal material. With her signature style, Julia Rothman delves into this incredible world, uncovering amazing facts about bees, beetles, butterflies, and so much more.
Millions of species of insects fly, crawl, dig, swarm, and eat on every continent. Our very existence depends on them; without pollinators, we would have no food, and without decomposers, the world would be covered in decaying plant and animal material. With her signature style, Julia Rothman delves into this incredible world, uncovering amazing facts about bees, beetles, butterflies, and so much more.
208 pages, Paperback
Published September 2, 2025
7 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 8, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
This is an amazing book for kids who are interested in insects (why they would be, though, I don't know). Seriously, though, bugs? I'm okay learning about them in books, but that's about all. However, it's good that there are people interested in bugs, especially with all the diseases they carry.
Love how the information in here is presented in a way that is easily digestible to children. There is so much in here, but nothing becomes too overwhelming, as it is broken up into different segments.
The illustrations are absolutely amazing. I would definitely recommend this book!
This is an amazing book for kids who are interested in insects (why they would be, though, I don't know). Seriously, though, bugs? I'm okay learning about them in books, but that's about all. However, it's good that there are people interested in bugs, especially with all the diseases they carry.
Love how the information in here is presented in a way that is easily digestible to children. There is so much in here, but nothing becomes too overwhelming, as it is broken up into different segments.
The illustrations are absolutely amazing. I would definitely recommend this book!
October 18, 2025
Insect Anatomy is a collective look at insects although as the author herself acknowledges it is just the tip of the iceberg.
The book is 200 pages but it really isn't too much of heavy reading when you get down to it. Each chapter has a full page illustrative focal opposite its chapter page while following pages are collections of blurbs that may tackle various species or takes a bit deeper dive into more well-known species.
Furthermore there are just some pages dedicated to showcasing as many different species as the author can manage and some times in actual proportion.
The book ends with a look at the contributions that insects have on our actual lives and also looks to ways in which we can help out insects through various nature-friendly projects if you want to continue on with a full-scale interactive experience.
My only main complaint is some of the information may need to be checked for the author mentions as being nocturnal, which they all aren't, which is later proven further in the book as you continue to read it.
All in all a greater starter book for children into insects as well as a must-have for both nature and science libraries.
The book is 200 pages but it really isn't too much of heavy reading when you get down to it. Each chapter has a full page illustrative focal opposite its chapter page while following pages are collections of blurbs that may tackle various species or takes a bit deeper dive into more well-known species.
Furthermore there are just some pages dedicated to showcasing as many different species as the author can manage and some times in actual proportion.
The book ends with a look at the contributions that insects have on our actual lives and also looks to ways in which we can help out insects through various nature-friendly projects if you want to continue on with a full-scale interactive experience.
My only main complaint is some of the information may need to be checked for the author mentions as being nocturnal, which they all aren't, which is later proven further in the book as you continue to read it.
All in all a greater starter book for children into insects as well as a must-have for both nature and science libraries.
September 2, 2025
Julia Rothman was first introduced to me via a book stand at a Tractor Supply. Her sticker books grabbed my attention and I ended up bringing a copy of the 'Nature Anatomy ' sticker book home. I was smitten with her style, it's so realistic while also having a touch of whimsy. This is the first actual book I've read of hers, and I will be seeking out a physical copy to add to my home library soon. Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
June 15, 2025
One of my goals this year has been to read more nonfiction, and as a nature and insect enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to this book by its unique and beautiful cover.
The illustrations are absolutely stunning and gave me so much inspiration, especially as an artist who frequently draws bugs myself.
The content is both informative, and presented in a way that’s easily digestible and fun. It’s the kind of book you can flip through for a quick burst of knowledge, or sit with for hours soaking in the beautiful art.
I can’t wait to add a physical copy to my collection when it’s published!
I’m thankful to NetGalley for an e-arc copy of this book!
The illustrations are absolutely stunning and gave me so much inspiration, especially as an artist who frequently draws bugs myself.
The content is both informative, and presented in a way that’s easily digestible and fun. It’s the kind of book you can flip through for a quick burst of knowledge, or sit with for hours soaking in the beautiful art.
I can’t wait to add a physical copy to my collection when it’s published!
I’m thankful to NetGalley for an e-arc copy of this book!
June 6, 2025
A super informative book for all things insect and things that you thought were insects but aren't (and it tells you why!) Great illustrations and layout - the sort of book that a kid could spend hours pouring over and then return to time and again after finding something crawly out in the garden.
thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
June 11, 2025
My daughter helped me review this book, and you can read all our thoughts on it here: http://www.tuninghearts.org/reading-r...
October 5, 2025
There’s something in this book for people of all ages. It brought back some childhood memories of insect hunts at the family cabin. The art is beautiful. The text is easy to understand.
December 29, 2025
"to notice more, to stay curious, and to respect these remarkable creatures"
this felt like a reading a kid's summer journal who just discovered they have a new hyperfixation, so cute and full of whimsy while presenting some really interesting facts. While I was not a fan of the "these insects are actual size" pages, especially the one for beatles, this did satiate the part of my brain that loves to look at all creatures and wonder how they manage to look like that naturally
this felt like a reading a kid's summer journal who just discovered they have a new hyperfixation, so cute and full of whimsy while presenting some really interesting facts. While I was not a fan of the "these insects are actual size" pages, especially the one for beatles, this did satiate the part of my brain that loves to look at all creatures and wonder how they manage to look like that naturally
September 27, 2025
Julia Rothman has created yet another book that will fascinate and delight anybody who loves insects. She has again chosen the same format as used in previous books that delights my artist heart…lots and lots of colorful illustrations accompanied by brief captions in bulleted points for easy reading and fact gathering. Adults and children alike will spend hours of enjoyment in this volume.
Again, there is a brief mention of evolution, so if you believe in a Creator, just skip that part.
Again, there is a brief mention of evolution, so if you believe in a Creator, just skip that part.
August 30, 2025
Book Review: Anatomy: The Curious World of Bees, Beetles, Butterflies, and Bugs by Julia Rothman (with Michael Hearst credited)
Rating: 5 Stars
I just finished Insect Anatomy: The Curious World of Bees, Beetles, Butterflies, and Bugs by Julia Rothman (with Michael Hearst credited), and I’m honestly smitten. This is a five-star gem that manages to be fun, informative, and perfectly pitched for curious young readers (and adults who love a clever, well-designed nature book).
At a glance, the book is a lively, close-up tour of the insect world. Rothman breaks down the massive diversity of tiny creatures—bees, beetles, butterflies, ants, spiders and other arthropods—into bite-sized, approachable sections. She explains why insects matter (think pollination and decomposition) and shows how their bodies and behaviors make them fundamental to the planet’s ecosystems. The text never feels dry or overloaded; complex ideas get translated into clear, memorable snippets that stick without talking down to the reader.
What really sells this book, though, are the visuals and the layout. The pages are a delight: clean, colorful illustrations that communicate anatomy and behavior in the most charming, informative way. Facts are arranged in short callouts and little boxed sections, so there’s always a neat rhythm to reading—plenty to explore at a glance, and more to savor if you want to linger. The structure prevents information from feeling overwhelming, which is especially important for kids soaking up new science-y concepts.
As a parent, I appreciated how the material balances accuracy with accessibility. You can tell it was created for young minds without simplifying to the point of losing nuance. It’s the kind of book that invites questions and follow-up adventures—good for bedtime reading, school projects, or just browsing on a rainy afternoon.
In short: informative, and gorgeously illustrated. I’d recommend it to any child fascinated by the tiny creatures all around us—or to anyone who wants a compact, joyful primer on why insects are so essential. Five stars.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 5 Stars
I just finished Insect Anatomy: The Curious World of Bees, Beetles, Butterflies, and Bugs by Julia Rothman (with Michael Hearst credited), and I’m honestly smitten. This is a five-star gem that manages to be fun, informative, and perfectly pitched for curious young readers (and adults who love a clever, well-designed nature book).
At a glance, the book is a lively, close-up tour of the insect world. Rothman breaks down the massive diversity of tiny creatures—bees, beetles, butterflies, ants, spiders and other arthropods—into bite-sized, approachable sections. She explains why insects matter (think pollination and decomposition) and shows how their bodies and behaviors make them fundamental to the planet’s ecosystems. The text never feels dry or overloaded; complex ideas get translated into clear, memorable snippets that stick without talking down to the reader.
What really sells this book, though, are the visuals and the layout. The pages are a delight: clean, colorful illustrations that communicate anatomy and behavior in the most charming, informative way. Facts are arranged in short callouts and little boxed sections, so there’s always a neat rhythm to reading—plenty to explore at a glance, and more to savor if you want to linger. The structure prevents information from feeling overwhelming, which is especially important for kids soaking up new science-y concepts.
As a parent, I appreciated how the material balances accuracy with accessibility. You can tell it was created for young minds without simplifying to the point of losing nuance. It’s the kind of book that invites questions and follow-up adventures—good for bedtime reading, school projects, or just browsing on a rainy afternoon.
In short: informative, and gorgeously illustrated. I’d recommend it to any child fascinated by the tiny creatures all around us—or to anyone who wants a compact, joyful primer on why insects are so essential. Five stars.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
October 16, 2025
Few people seem more suited to providing us with a painted insect encyclopaedia than the named artist here. I made sure to call it that as it's very much the reference book, rather than something you can read cover to cover. But either way you will learn a lot about insects – the anatomy of the major kinds, a selection of the superlative ones, their life cycles, the good and bad we deem them to do, and so much more. The text is fine, while the illustrations convey the colours and size of a heck of a lot of critters – you do have to laugh at the first mention of the Vietnamese walking stick, before you realise it's a fancy stick insect.
Only late on does the work prove it's for a North American audience – we in Britain have little hope of attracting monarchs to our gardens – but the basics are necessary biological information, and we all need to know the major differences between butterflies and moths, bees and wasps, etc. What hoovers the most aphids up, how many are purely black and white, and what looks almost like the insect axolotl with its frills – everything is here, indeed a lot more than the standard school non-fiction read. That can make it heavy-going, and perhaps awkward to find exactly what you want for your homework, but it's a mighty fine way of learning. Four and a half stars.
Only late on does the work prove it's for a North American audience – we in Britain have little hope of attracting monarchs to our gardens – but the basics are necessary biological information, and we all need to know the major differences between butterflies and moths, bees and wasps, etc. What hoovers the most aphids up, how many are purely black and white, and what looks almost like the insect axolotl with its frills – everything is here, indeed a lot more than the standard school non-fiction read. That can make it heavy-going, and perhaps awkward to find exactly what you want for your homework, but it's a mighty fine way of learning. Four and a half stars.
May 6, 2025
Another book by Julia Rothman?! Yes, please! Having enjoyed two previous books in the "Anatomy" series (Wildlife and Nature), I jumped on the opportunity to read Insect Anatomy. Although I do enjoy nature and animals, insects aren't as high on my list of favs, but I knew I'd learn something and enjoy the beautiful illustrations. Insect Anatomy is a quick introduction into the vast world of insects - all different shapes, sizes, colors, as well as interesting facts and trivia about their behavior and interactions with others (including humans!). I learned new tidbits about insects I was already familiar with and was introduced to a number of new insects that I might never come across in my life. I love the bright drawings - they really show the variety of insects that abound. This is a fun and quick read, you can read it in one sitting or open to a random page to learn something new. It's a great gift idea if you have an insect-lover in your life. I still think I prefer animals, but I do have a stronger appreciation for insects. 4.5/5
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for this e-arc.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for this e-arc.
September 1, 2025
For those of you who are starting back to school tomorrow and are feeling that stress, I can recommend time with this amazing, beautiful title as an anxiety reducer (for kids and adults). Insect Anatomy is full of detailed illustrations (not photos) of all kinds of bugs and has tons of fascinating information about them. Did you know that the frequency of cricket chirps can help you estimate outside temperature?
It's logically divided into sections, including a chapter on superlative insects (biggest, longest, etc). This would be a terrific text to sit with after a class walk outside. If you've identified a creature using an app, then you can find out more about it here. Be prepared for students poring over this and then regaling you with their knowledge.
Storey Publishing continues to be my go-to for beautiful, well-researched young reader non-fiction. Pair this one with a notebook and a magnifying glass as a stunning gift and get outside.
Thanks to #NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the e-arc
It's logically divided into sections, including a chapter on superlative insects (biggest, longest, etc). This would be a terrific text to sit with after a class walk outside. If you've identified a creature using an app, then you can find out more about it here. Be prepared for students poring over this and then regaling you with their knowledge.
Storey Publishing continues to be my go-to for beautiful, well-researched young reader non-fiction. Pair this one with a notebook and a magnifying glass as a stunning gift and get outside.
Thanks to #NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the e-arc
May 18, 2025
I’m a huge fan of Julia Rothman, and this latest addition to her collection truly stands out. We already own the entire series, and this book has quickly become a favorite for both me and my 3-year-old. It perfectly caters to our love for browsable nonfiction.
The level of detail in this book is nothing short of amazing. Rothman has included a wealth of information that covers all aspects of insect anatomy in a way that is accessible and engaging for any readers (not just kids!!). Each page is filled with vibrant illustrations and fun facts that spark curiosity. I especially appreciate how she thought of everything related to insects! I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of tangentially related topics she was able to include in this book.
Overall, this book is the perfect addition to our collection. I highly recommend this book (and the whole series) to anyone who loves illustrated nonfic or nature books.
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC of this book.
The level of detail in this book is nothing short of amazing. Rothman has included a wealth of information that covers all aspects of insect anatomy in a way that is accessible and engaging for any readers (not just kids!!). Each page is filled with vibrant illustrations and fun facts that spark curiosity. I especially appreciate how she thought of everything related to insects! I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of tangentially related topics she was able to include in this book.
Overall, this book is the perfect addition to our collection. I highly recommend this book (and the whole series) to anyone who loves illustrated nonfic or nature books.
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC of this book.
June 13, 2025
This is a wonderful book. It's truly full of useful and interesting information, and the illustrations make it even richer. I looked through it with my niece, who loves insects and bugs, and since she’s only six years old and Italian, she didn’t understand everything, even though I summarized the main parts for her. She loved it—she really enjoyed the illustrations and was very interested in the anatomical sections and the eggs. She especially liked the brightly colored insects and felt a bit sad that they don’t exist in nature where we live.
I hope it will be translated into Italian—I'll definitely buy it for her as a gift. I recommend this book to anyone who loves spending time outdoors, to those who are fascinated by bugs and insects, and also to anyone passionate about illustrations, because these are truly wonderful. It might also be appreciated by people who enjoy painting, as it could serve as great inspiration.
I hope it will be translated into Italian—I'll definitely buy it for her as a gift. I recommend this book to anyone who loves spending time outdoors, to those who are fascinated by bugs and insects, and also to anyone passionate about illustrations, because these are truly wonderful. It might also be appreciated by people who enjoy painting, as it could serve as great inspiration.
November 10, 2025
A nonfiction graphic novel that surveys different types of insects, their attributes, unique traits, various orders’ collective traits, and other miscellaneous information.
This is for the budding entomologist, the backyard scientist, the person who on walks or hikes wonders what kind of bug that was, and those who like gathering random facts. Rothman’s illustrations suck you in and there’s just the right amount of info per page.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: There is a section where mating practices of some insects are clinically/scientifically talked about.
Violence: Predatory insect behavior is mentioned and there are illustrations showing some of this, including a female mantis holding the disconnected head of her mate. (It isn’t gory.)
Ethnic diversity: Insects from all over the world featured.
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: Obviously, some readers who don’t like bugs won’t like certain pages.
This is for the budding entomologist, the backyard scientist, the person who on walks or hikes wonders what kind of bug that was, and those who like gathering random facts. Rothman’s illustrations suck you in and there’s just the right amount of info per page.
Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: There is a section where mating practices of some insects are clinically/scientifically talked about.
Violence: Predatory insect behavior is mentioned and there are illustrations showing some of this, including a female mantis holding the disconnected head of her mate. (It isn’t gory.)
Ethnic diversity: Insects from all over the world featured.
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: Obviously, some readers who don’t like bugs won’t like certain pages.
April 29, 2025
First of all, this is yet another spectacular addition to the Julia Rothman Anatomy collection.
I went through it with my 7 year old, who has always enjoyed the illustrations in these books but now that he’s becoming a strong reader, he was so fixated on devouring every bit of the content in this book.
As a homeschool parent, books like this are a wonderful source of organic learning as well as a very helpful resource. I love when I can find books that my kids pick up on their own and spend however much time they wish just thumbing through the pages, asking questions and feeding their overall love of learning.
I’m eager to add this to our physical collection.
I went through it with my 7 year old, who has always enjoyed the illustrations in these books but now that he’s becoming a strong reader, he was so fixated on devouring every bit of the content in this book.
As a homeschool parent, books like this are a wonderful source of organic learning as well as a very helpful resource. I love when I can find books that my kids pick up on their own and spend however much time they wish just thumbing through the pages, asking questions and feeding their overall love of learning.
I’m eager to add this to our physical collection.
July 14, 2025
Publishing date: 02.09.2025 (DD/MM/YYYY)
Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC. My opinions are my own.
Do you like bugs? Do you like learning about bugs? Then this is for you!
You get:
- Beautiful illustrations
- A look into the lifecycle of bugs
- Anatomy
- Different species
- To-size illustrations of some of the larger bugs (this does not work on digital editions)
- Defense mechanisms
This book is fitting of all ages, and anyone interested in bugs. Even just those who love beautiful illustrations.
I adore bugs. All colors, shapes, and sizes. And I adored this book just as much. 5 stars, beautiful, highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC. My opinions are my own.
Do you like bugs? Do you like learning about bugs? Then this is for you!
You get:
- Beautiful illustrations
- A look into the lifecycle of bugs
- Anatomy
- Different species
- To-size illustrations of some of the larger bugs (this does not work on digital editions)
- Defense mechanisms
This book is fitting of all ages, and anyone interested in bugs. Even just those who love beautiful illustrations.
I adore bugs. All colors, shapes, and sizes. And I adored this book just as much. 5 stars, beautiful, highly recommend.
September 17, 2025
As a self-confessed entomophile, I was really excited to be accepted for this ARC… and it didn’t disappoint. Insect Anatomy is a detailed and engaging book, suitable for all ages and anyone with an interest in insects. It covers everything from fun facts to more in-depth scientific information, all presented in a way that’s easy to digest.
The layout is clear and well thought out, and the illustrations are beautiful. It is both aesthetically pleasing and practical for identification.
I read the digital version, but I’ll definitely be buying a physical copy, as I imagine it’s even more impactful in print and will make a great reference to return to again and again. 5 stars!
The layout is clear and well thought out, and the illustrations are beautiful. It is both aesthetically pleasing and practical for identification.
I read the digital version, but I’ll definitely be buying a physical copy, as I imagine it’s even more impactful in print and will make a great reference to return to again and again. 5 stars!
September 2, 2025
My son and I LOVED this book so much!!!
The illustrations were so good. I think I cried so many times because of how beautiful they were. The details on each drawing were so on point. My son usually preferred real photos, but many times we reread this book, he always said he loved the drawings. Never once did he mention the real pictures.
We (my son and I) could easily spend hours just devouring this book. Every time we read it, we find something new.
200+ pages full of beauty and knowledge.
Thank you to Julia Rothman, Michael Hearst, Storey Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
The illustrations were so good. I think I cried so many times because of how beautiful they were. The details on each drawing were so on point. My son usually preferred real photos, but many times we reread this book, he always said he loved the drawings. Never once did he mention the real pictures.
We (my son and I) could easily spend hours just devouring this book. Every time we read it, we find something new.
200+ pages full of beauty and knowledge.
Thank you to Julia Rothman, Michael Hearst, Storey Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
April 12, 2025
I respect insects and their place in world ecosystems. I also admire their extreme diversity and prolific nature. I still think they're kind of icky. Luckily, this book is great. The illustrations are beautiful. I learned a lot of new facts. This would be a good purchase for a very curious kid in elementary school.
The Advanced Review Copy (ARC) was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Advanced Review Copy (ARC) was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2025
Another incredible book by Julia Rothman!
I was so excited to receive an eARC of this book from the publisher on NetGalley! My family has been enjoying Julia Rothman’s books for years and we can’t wait to add this one to the collection when it comes out in September.
This book is great for multiple ages—it’s engaging for little kiddos who aren’t reading yet, great for middle grade and still fun for older kids and adults that love to learn! Highly recommend to families and libraries!
I was so excited to receive an eARC of this book from the publisher on NetGalley! My family has been enjoying Julia Rothman’s books for years and we can’t wait to add this one to the collection when it comes out in September.
This book is great for multiple ages—it’s engaging for little kiddos who aren’t reading yet, great for middle grade and still fun for older kids and adults that love to learn! Highly recommend to families and libraries!
October 25, 2025
Insect Anatomy by @juliarothman is a colorful, educational, and fun book perfect for anyone desiring to explore insects! There is so much to learn in this book with more insects and facts than you can imagine. I learned a ton. This book could be read with kids in upper elementary and up if assistance is provided and still fascinating to all ages upwards. Pick up a copy of this book to start exploring and learning about the wonderful world of insects!
April 4, 2025
We already own all of Julia Rothman's books, and they have been a go-to favorite for years in our household. This is a no-brainer for us to pre-order the actual book, as we enjoy the digital copy. We are about to enter summertime here, and this book will be used extensively as we explore the world outside. The illustrations, as always, bring life and spark the imagination of everyone.
May 17, 2025
This is such a fantastic book. Rothman is so good at these books and she deserves all of the fortunes she’s made off of them. The illustrations are both accurate and beautiful, and it’s packed with information. A must-buy for every homeschool, library, nature center, nature lover and insect lover.
I read a temporary digital loan of this book via netgalley.
I read a temporary digital loan of this book via netgalley.
May 23, 2025
5 stars
I collect all of Julia Rothman's anatomy books, so I was beyond grateful to get this one. Splendid as always. Her illustrations are charming, informative, and full of heart. I can’t wait for this to be published—my daughter is going to love it just as much as I do. A beautiful addition to our collection.
I collect all of Julia Rothman's anatomy books, so I was beyond grateful to get this one. Splendid as always. Her illustrations are charming, informative, and full of heart. I can’t wait for this to be published—my daughter is going to love it just as much as I do. A beautiful addition to our collection.
December 18, 2025
Julia Rothman is one of my new favs. I love her simple approach to explaining amazing things, topics, animals, environments, etc. Her art and drawings in this book were so good; I liked her explanation of the new technical and tools she used for this book compared to the others at the end. I will continue reading anything Julia writes/ draws!
October 7, 2025
4.5
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨️
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book! I learned so much about insects I had never heard of before. From admiring the beautiful paintings, to shock over how some moth caterpillars look. I highly recommend this book!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨️
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book! I learned so much about insects I had never heard of before. From admiring the beautiful paintings, to shock over how some moth caterpillars look. I highly recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews