Everyone’s favorite june beetle learns about the many different places insects call home. Burt the Beetle wants to find the perfect home to settle down in. But what might that look like? Burt’s impressed as he checks out the homes of his insect friends - a monarch’s chrysalis, the ants’ underground tunnels, the bees’ hive. They’re amazing, they just don’t quite suit Burt’s size, his building skills - or his sticky legs! He’s starting to get discouraged. But when a rainstorm sends him scurrying for cover under a leaf, Burt begins to understand what home feels like for him! Bugs rule! Fact and fiction wrapped in hilarity will keep kids laughing while learning about insects!
Ashley Spires Book order
Ashley crafts books that remind children that mistakes are an integral part of learning. Her work emphasizes that the process of creation is just as important as the final product. Through her stories, she encourages young readers to embrace experimentation and accept imperfection.






- 2023
- 2023
The latest addition to The Most Magnificent series. In this vocabulary book, the characters from The Most Magnificent Thing walk readers from A to Z, through all the words little makers need to know. It captures the ups (“I is for IDEA. A gift from the imagination that wants to be made.”) and downs (“P is for PATIENCE. Most things don’t work the first time … or the third time …. or even the twelfth time.”) of creating and includes explanations of key concepts (“B is for BRAINSTORM. When ideas of all shapes and sizes rain onto the page.”) Witty, clever and encouraging, it’s sure to inspire endless magnificent making!
- 2022
The girl in this story, with her dog at her side, loves to make things. Her brain, she says, is an “idea machine,” so full of ideas that she can hardly keep up. But then one day ... it isn't. All of a sudden, the girl can't come up with a single idea for what to make. She tries everything: brainstorming, gathering new supplies, even jumping up and down on one foot to shake an idea loose. But, nothing. The girl realizes, with no ideas taking up space in her brain, it's filling with sad instead. What if she never has another idea again?
- 2021
Burt The Beetle Doesn't Bite!
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A hilarious story about one bug’s quest for greatness (with some cool insect facts mixed in!). Meet Burt, a ten-lined june beetle. He’s sure he has a superpower like other insects. No, he can’t carry 50 times his weight, like ants, or spray paralyzing venom, like some termites. What june beetles seem to do best is chase porch lights and lie on their backs flailing their legs in the air ... hmm. Maybe Burt doesn’t have any special skills after all ... But when some other bugs get into perilous trouble that even their superpowers can’t get them out of, Burt realizes there is one helpful thing only he can do ... Why shouldn’t every bug have its day (even the wannabe superhero kind)? Kids will be rooting for this one!
- 2020
Solid, Liquid, Gassy! (a Fairy Science Story)
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
In this delightful sequel, Esther, a fairy scientist, delves into the mysteries of the water cycle, blending STEM concepts with magical elements. The story continues the enchanting adventures from the first book, showcasing Esther's curiosity and innovative spirit. With vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative, it aims to inspire young readers to explore science while enjoying the whimsical world of fairies.
- 2020
Solid, Liquid, Gassy!
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Fairy scientist Esther is experimenting with the water cycle in this enchanting STEM-and-magic-filled follow-up to Fairy Science, a picture book from the award-winning author-illustrator of The Most Magnificent Thing! When a pond dries up, fairy scientist Esther doesn't freeze under the pressure. She and her friends go full steam ahead for to make a scientific discovery! Bestselling author Ashley Spires (The Most Magnificent Thing) creates a charming primer to the water cycle. Includes an at-home water experiment for the budding scientist in your house!
- 2019
Fairy Science
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Discover the magic of STEM in this fairy-filled picture book from the award-winning author-illustrator of The Most Magnificent Thing! All the fairies in Pixieville believe in magic...except Esther. She believes in science. When a forest tree stops growing, all the fairies are stumped including Esther. But not for long! Esther knows that science can get to the root of the problem--and its solution! Whether you believe in fairy magic or the power of science, you will be charmed by Esther, the budding fairy scientist.
- 2017
... Lou's dilemmas, feelings, and experiences should ring true for many kiddos taking on new challenges.-Booklist Online
- 2016
Amidst the challenges of debate, managing a French film club, and playing the bagpipes, a charming chickadee named Andrew discovers the value of balance in life. With guidance from a supportive deer friend, he learns that being busy doesn't equate to happiness. This heartwarming tale, crafted by the award-winning creator of The Most Magnificent Thing, emphasizes the importance of slowing down and appreciating the moments that truly matter.
- 2015
A little girl and her canine assistant set out to make the most magnificent thing. But after much hard work, the end result is not what the girl had in mind. Frustrated, she quits. Her assistant suggests a long walk, and as they walk, it slowly becomes clear what the girl needs to do to succeed. A charming story that will give kids the most magnificent thing: perspective!