The Natural Genius of Ants by Betty Culley
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers on May 10, 2022
ISBN: 0593175778
Pages: 240
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Ten-year-old Harvard Corson’s father made a mistake. But doctor’s mistakes are deadly, and Dr. Marshall Corson has lost his footing, perhaps even his family. A summer vacation in his dad’s childhood village of Kettle Hole, Maine just might spark hope for the Corson family. Betty Culley skillfully transports the reader to summertime in rural Maine, where life is simple, and healing can begin. Both playful and serious, it addresses hard topics in a tender way, showing that every family navigates their own struggles. Not unlike the glass ant farm filled with carpenter ants, the people of Kettle Hole care for their own. This story is filled with friendship, family, forgiveness, and ant facts. Who could ask for more?

I recommend this book for every school or public library. Best suited for ages 9 and up. It should also be considered for Cream of the Crop.

Reviewed by Liz Davis, Children’s Librarian, Waterville Public Library.