“The Ballad of Levi Locust” is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the essence of staying true to oneself and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. This charming story follows Levi Locust, a banjo-playing mountain bug with a song in his heart, as he embarks on a grand journey to find a place where he belongs.

What I admire about this book is its honest and relatable approach to the sometimes harsh reality of finding true friendship. It doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges Levi faces as he is repeatedly shooed away by other bugs while trying to share his music. Instead, the story encourages young readers to always be themselves, no matter what, and emphasises that true friends will love and accept them for who they are.

The author skillfully conveys Levi’s emotions throughout his journey, particularly when he is told to go away. This emotional depth encourages empathy in children, prompting them to think twice about treating others unkindly and helping them understand the impact their words can have on someone’s feelings.

The illustrations in “The Ballad of Levi Locust” are a testament to the love and care that went into creating this book. The artwork beautifully complements the story, bringing Levi’s world to life and adding an extra layer of charm to the narrative.

The story’s powerful message is that while it’s perfectly normal to have differences with some people, it doesn’t matter as long as you remain true to yourself. Levi’s perseverance ultimately leads him to find the friends he is meant to have, highlighting the importance of resilience and the value of genuine friendship.