Insects: The Most Fun Bug Book Ever

Gr 3–6—Insects are cool, and they should rule the world. At least that's what this book aims to have readers believing by the end. Almost a million species have been identified—a number that barely scratches the surface. The text gives a general overview of various topics, including body structure, life cycle, eating habits, and contributions to the environment. It also highlights perennial favorites, such as beetles. Collard clearly loves insects, and his enthusiasm carries the work. Readers will appreciate the conversational tone and humorous descriptions. The photographs are gorgeous, such as the full-page, up-close image of the creepy tiger swallowtail butterfly caterpillar. Aside from websites of conservation groups that protect the habitats of insects, the back matter doesn't list resources or recommendations for further reading. As the text states, it's up to students to ask a librarian for help, search online, or simply go outside and observe insects. However, it probably wouldn't have hurt to have double-checked the title's own sources; for example, some educators might take issue with a segment of text that reports that a butterfly comes out of a cocoon rather than a chrysalis.