The story is available in both board book and hardcover format. Another fun choice is Sam and the Firefly , by Philip D. Eastman, an easy reader for ages 4-8, Random House. Sam, an owl, teaches Gus, a firefly, to write words with his light. The fun starts when Gus writes his own mischievous messages. Mysteries Explained Fireflies provide a great opportunity to give your kids a science lesson.
Fireflies are actually members of the beetle family.
Scientists estimate there are about 2,000 named species of fireflies, with more being discovered. About 200 of these species live in North America, so you've got great chances of seeing them. Fireflies aren't the only bioluminescent organisms. Certain other beetles, gnats, bacteria, fish, fungi, jellyfish, sponge and worms are among those critters that also produce the effect. Yet another example is foxfire, the glow produced by luminescent fungi on decaying wood.