Step into the bustling, pint-sized world of Ant Hill, where tiny ants embark on big adventures! The Ant Hill series by Joan Holub, with vibrant illustrations by Will Terry, is a charming collection of seven Ready-to-Read Pre-Level 1 books crafted for young readers just starting their literacy journey. Published between 2006 and 2008, these stories weave education and entertainment into a delightful tapestry, making them a go-to for parents and educators fostering early reading skills.
With its whimsical setting and lovable ant characters, Ant Hill captures the magic of childhood curiosity. From snowy escapades to Valentine’s Day crafts, each book invites kids to explore holidays and everyday moments through simple rhymes and engaging tales, perfect for pre-K and kindergarten readers.
How Ant Hill Began
Joan Holub, a prolific children’s author with over 200 books to her name, teamed up with illustrator Will Terry to create the Ant Hill series, launching with More Snacks! in 2006. Holub’s knack for rhyming and her passion for making reading accessible shone through, inspired by her desire to craft stories that spark joy in budding readers. Terry’s colorful, lively illustrations brought the Ant Hill community to life, drawing from his experience with major publishers like Scholastic and Random House. Together, they built a world where ants mirror the playful, curious spirit of young children.
The Heart of Ant Hill
The series follows the Ant Hill kids—ants with names like Jake, Grant, and Sue—through heartwarming adventures tied to seasons and holidays. In Snow Day!, the ants revel in a winter wonderland, counting snowflakes, tossing snowballs, and piling onto a sled for a thrilling ride. Big Heart! sees them crafting a giant Valentine’s Day card, debating who deserves their masterpiece before choosing their beloved teacher. Good Luck! brings a St. Patrick’s Day parade with bagpipes and a leprechaun chase, ending in a rainbow surprise. Picnic! celebrates summer with watermelon feasts and a journey home as the sun sets.
Holub’s stories shine with simple, rhythmic text—averaging six words per page—making them ideal for early readers. Her rhyming schemes, like “Flake and Jake” or “Sled and Ed,” help kids sound out words, building confidence. Terry’s illustrations add humor and warmth, with bustling ant scenes that invite readers to linger. Themes of friendship, teamwork, and curiosity run throughout, set in the cozy, relatable Ant Hill community where every day feels like an adventure.
Why Ant Hill Resonates
The Ant Hill series has left a lasting mark on early literacy, offering a fun, accessible entry point for young readers. Parents and educators praise its ability to blend phonics practice with engaging stories, helping kids master letter sounds without feeling overwhelmed. Fans on platforms like Goodreads highlight the books’ humor and re-readability, with kids often requesting them night after night. Holub’s clever rhymes and Terry’s inviting art create a world that feels both familiar and fantastical, encouraging a love for reading that sticks.
Though the series concluded in 2008, its niche status as a Pre-Level 1 staple keeps it cherished in classrooms and homes. Its focus on holidays and community makes it a versatile tool for teaching cultural traditions alongside literacy, ensuring its place in the hearts of new generations.
- Publication Years: 2006–2008
- Number of Books: 7
- Target Audience: Pre-K to Kindergarten
- Authors: Joan Holub (writer), Will Terry (illustrator)
Ready to explore the tiny, terrific world of Ant Hill? Grab More Snacks! and join the ants for a rhyming, reading adventure that’s sure to delight!