November 1, 2015
Gr 2-4-These introductions to insects (plus one arachnid) include accurate facts and plenty of photographs but never rise above average in terms of appeal or learning potential. Each spread is comprised of a page with three or four sentences opposite a half-page photograph. Text boxes prompt readers to ponder questions about the animals. Most titles examine behavior more than physical features, with some variation from book to book. Insect body structure is mentioned in just a couple of the titles, and no photographs show them clearly. Endings are sometimes abrupt. Predators and other dangers are usually but not always noted. While some of the photos are effective, information frequently suffers from lack of visual support. Ant tunnels and honeycombs, for example, are mentioned but not shown, and only some titles provide an image of an egg or newborn. VERDICT Adequate, but there are more effective sets on arthropods available for young readers.
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