Why Marty Goes to the Library by Jon Vredevoogd Is a Must-Read for Young Readers
Looking for a fun, meaningful story to spark your child’s love for reading? Marty Goes to the Library, written by Jon Vredevoogd, is a joyful tale that mixes imagination, friendship, and the magic of books — all wrapped up in one butterfly’s school day.
Let’s just say this: Marty the Butterfly does not have a boring life. And while he almost stayed home today (just kidding!), this is his best adventure yet.
What’s the Story About?
Marty is buzzing with excitement — it’s library day at school! His wings are polished, his smile is broad, and he can’t wait to dive into stories filled with wizards, dragons, and magical places.
At the Library, Marty teams up with his friend Simon from spelling class. Together, they explore shelves filled with colorful books — thick, thin, mysterious, old, and new. Something special happens as they sit down to read: their imaginations take off. Suddenly, Marty’s not just reading about fantasy lands — he’s in them.
He duels with wizards. Rides dragons. Becomes a hero. And all this happens from the cozy corner of a school library.
And yes — there’s a sweet little moment when Marty forgets to whisper in the Library (oops!). But he learns quickly and laughs with his friend before diving back into their books.
Vredevoogd’s writing captures the excitement of discovering books for the first time. The way Marty reacts to the stories — wide-eyed, totally immersed — mirrors the wonder children feel when they connect with the right book.
Why Parents Love This Story
This isn’t just a story about butterflies and books — it’s a gentle, fun way to teach your child:
- Reading is exciting – Books are a gateway to magical, imaginative worlds.
- Reading builds the mind – Marty’s teacher, Mrs. Owl, explains how reading helps kids grow smarter.
- Talking about books matters – Marty and Simon share their favorite parts, which boosts comprehension and creativity.
- Respect and responsibility – Marty and Simon remember to return their books and whisper in the library.
Jon Vredevoogd does a wonderful job blending storytelling with life lessons without sounding preachy or stiff. The lessons are woven naturally into the plot — the kind that kids absorb because they’re entertained, not lectured.
Parents also appreciate the subtle nods to emotional intelligence. Marty and Simon navigate feelings like excitement, curiosity, and even a bit of embarrassment (when Marty gets shushed). These moments offer easy openings for parents to talk about social cues, empathy, and self-awareness.
Why Kids Love It
Kids love Marty because he feels real. He’s enthusiastic, sometimes a little noisy, and always full of energy. His imagination mirrors theirs — big, colorful, and boundless.
The friendship between Marty and Simon is another highlight. It’s supportive and playful, showing how books can bring kids together. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over a funny page or talking about what they’d do in a story, Marty and Simon model how reading can be a shared experience.
The artwork (if you’re reading the illustrated edition) adds even more appeal — bright, whimsical, and perfectly matched to the tone of the story. The visual cues help early readers follow along and deepen their understanding of the plot.
Perfect For…
- Bedtime stories that aren’t just relaxing but also meaningful
- Classroom reading or story time activities
- Encouraging reluctant readers to see books as fun, not homework
- Sparking early conversations about imagination, respect, and curiosity
- Kids who are visual learners and respond to colorful, dynamic storytelling
- Libraries or school reading programs looking for accessible, feel-good stories
Try This with Your Child:
After reading Marty Goes to the Library, ask your child:
- What kind of books do you like best?
- If you could be in any story, what would it be?
- What’s one fun thing you’ve learned from a book?
- Want to draw a picture of a magical place you’d love to visit?
- What would your dream library look like?
You can also act out one of the scenes — pretend to be Marty, Simon, or even a dragon from one of the books. Role-playing helps bring the story to life and boosts your child’s confidence in expressing ideas.
Bottom Line:
Marty Goes to the Library by Jon Vredevoogd is more than a story — it’s an invitation to imagine, learn, and fall in love with reading. Whether your child is just starting to explore books or already has a favorite, Marty’s adventure will make them smile — and maybe even inspire their own.
So grab a cozy spot, snuggle up with your little one, and let Marty lead the way into the magical world of reading. The library isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to dream, grow, and start new adventures.