Behold the Beautiful Dung Beetle

Listeners, take note of this opening line: "One animal's waste is a dung beetle's treasure"! Yes, this is a recording about feces/poop/dung and the amazing creature that craves it. Bardoe has packed incredible tidbits of information about the three types of dung beetles and how they process and house dung, mate, grow, and change during their life cycle. Narrator Eliza Foss's clipped elocution and pleasant timbre dignify the subject of dung beetles. Foss's interest and animation are evident, but her presentation moves at a speed that might require listeners to rewind and repeat sections, given such an unusual topic. A collection of fascinating facts and a glossary complete the production. A.R. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine

November 1, 2014

Gr 1-4-Even if this succinct assortment of facts does not convince children of the beauty of dung beetles, they will definitely appreciate that these insects exist. These creatures are wonderful little helpers when it comes to waste removal, and helping "dung, feces, or poop" to decompose benefits not only the dung beetle but the Earth as well. Young listeners will learn that there are three main types-rollers, tunnelers, and dwellers. Each type varies in size, how they consume their meals, where they live, and what types of poop they prefer. The life cycle is covered, as well as some historical facts, including why ancient Egyptians worshipped them. There is enough here for a short report, and a glossary is also available. The narrator, Eliza Foss, keeps an even pace and uses variation in tone to keep listeners interested. The second track includes page-turn signals for young readers. This audiobook would be enjoyable with pictures and text to follow, so when possible, pair it with the book.-Terri Norstrom, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.