Westly’s whole life has always been mapped out for him:  emerge from his cocoon and take his place as a butterfly prince.  But all those plans are dashed to pieces when he emerges from his cocoon, not a monarch butterfly, but a small black spider.  Can he find his place in his world, or will he inadvertently destroy it?

Westly: A Spider’s Tale by Brian Beus is a sweet and endearing tale of acceptance, both of one’s self and by others.  The main character, Westly, is a relatable young bug who does his best to overcome the challenges that come his way.  Despite rough patches, and a few bad judgment calls, Westly grows as a character throughout the book and through his challenges he learns that you don’t have to have big, beautiful wings to be a leader.

The story is a wonderful coming of age story that exudes a charming innocence. With a message that speaks to all ages, it is a thoroughly enjoyable read for all young readers. 

Review of an Advance Reader Copy

This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Shadow Mountain

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/ Gore: (Note: All characters are insects or animals.)  Characters are told the outside world is dangerous; characters  chase a another; character becomes tangled in thread; character’s wings get damaged; character eats himself sick; character implies climbing could be very dangerous; character accidentally pulls off antenna; character sheds skin; character causes panic and mild destruction; character falls into a mushroom; character runs into plants; character gets caught in carnivorous plants (twice); character falls into pool of water; character bites another’s foot; character causes destruction while trying to be helpful; character tells of dangerous plants; character gets hit with a ball of thread; character nearly eaten by worms; character is almost squished; character catches butterflies with a net; character tells others the butterflies will die without help; character traps bugs; character plans to make jewelry out of butterflies; characters break chandelier; character gets trapped; character falls down a well.

Sex/Nudity:  None

Mature Subject Matter:

Acceptance, betrayal, friendship, class politics.

Alcohol / Drug Use:

None