Roberto the Insect Architect
By Nina Laden
The Story
A termite dreams of being an architect, but his wood-eating family and friends can't take him seriously — so he heads to the big bug city to prove himself and build something real.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's been told their big idea doesn't fit the family mold, Roberto's story says: go build it anyway.
- Big idea: Following your own path sometimes means leaving the people who doubt you behind, even when they're family.
- Vibes: Witty, urban, and quietly inspiring — a bug's-eye view of chasing an unlikely dream.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy quirky animal-and-insect characters
- are working on believing in their own ideas
- love detailed collage artwork to pore over
- respond well to stories about doing things differently than everyone else
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think no one would hire Roberto as an architect at first?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Roberto felt when his family didn't believe in his dream?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever doubted something you really wanted to do?
- Imagination: If you could design a building for your friends, what would it look like?
- Big idea: Why do you think Roberto decided to go to the city instead of staying home?
