Ladybug's Birthday

by Steve Metzger

Ladybug plans a party with only two friends in her small house, but as more and more insects show up, she is sure her birthday is ruined.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books

29 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1997

About the author

I grew up in Queens, NY in the 1950s with my “baby” sister, Lois. She is now a wonderful writer of young adult novels and nonfiction. My mother was born in Vienna, Austria, and my father came from Brooklyn – an interesting match! My best friends were Neil, Robbie, Krebs, and Paul. I’m still good friends with most of these guys. It was less hectic in those days – no computers, no emails, fewer TV channels (MANY fewer!) We had lots of fun playing ball and listening to records. I’ll never forget when the Beatles came to America – Beatlemania!
After graduating from Baruch College in NYC, I didn’t know what to do with my life. I bounced around doing odd jobs, including taxi driver, dishwasher, and hotel desk clerk. One day, while relaxing in Central Park (OK, I was unemployed), I saw a group of children from a local daycare center. It struck me that I always liked children -- perhaps I could make a career out of something I liked. Eureka! Ever since then, I’ve been involved, in one way or another, with the lives of young children.

I received my Masters in Education from Bank Street College and taught preschool kids for a bunch of years. I loved the childrens' innocence and vivid imaginations. After moving into school administration for a few years, I began working at Scholastic, where I have been ever since.

At Scholastic, I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to write children’s books. The first book that I wrote was "The Dinofours: I’m Super Dino!" Twenty-seven other Dinofours’ books followed. I hope my respect and appreciation for young children shines through in my stories.

Nowadays, I’m lucky to be married to my beautiful and talented wife, Nancy (she’s also a writer). In 1998, we were blessed with a terrific daughter, Julia, who helps criticize my story ideas and lets me play with her once in a while.

And furthermore…any recollections of my life would not be complete without mentioning my grandmother, Mutti. She was an ever present source of love, appreciation, and wisdom.

Reviews

[Sana · Rating 4 out of 5]

مهمان هاي ناخوانده كه بهتر از اينه كه!!!!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a cute little book, as books about bugs usually are. In the 15-ish years since I've read it, the thing that stuck with me was how delicious the honey looks.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

36 months - just in time for O's 3rd birthday. I liked how the author used the talents of each of ladybug's guest's special talents to make the party a success.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aww ... sweet!