*Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider by Jessica Lanan

A girl and a spider share adventures. Don’t overlook this masterpiece of creation that probably lives in your own backyard.

*Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider, written and illustrated by Jessica Lanan. Roaring Brook Press, 2023. 32 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture books, Ages 4-8
• Recommended For: Ages 0-4, Ages 4-8

A jumping spider and a girl in a yellow dress share similar adventures around a garden; imitating, yet oblivious to one another. They walk on walls and the ceiling (it works–see the illustration), climbing, jumping, hearing, exploring the garden (with brilliant use of fold-out pages), both enjoying a snack/meal at last.

This lovely book celebrates nature, a loving family, and the excellence of an often-overlooked masterpiece of creation. It’s great to learn about a variety of exotic creatures, but don’t miss the ones in your own backyard.

Overall Rating: 4.75

• Literary/Artistic Rating: 5
• Worldview Rating: 4.5

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Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader

• Book Review: The Spider (Disgusting Creatures) by Elise Gravel
• Resource: Love Your Yard: Nature study books to spark creation appreciation
• Book Review: A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Bugs by Eliza Berkowitz

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