Monster Bugs

September 1, 1996
Gr 1-3-An easy-to-read book about a number of large and ferocious insects. A couple of interesting facts are presented per double-page spread, many of which concern how the insects defend themselves or attack other animals or each other. The direct writing style is suitable for the subject matter. Although the language is simple, the author relates much interesting information. Feeling a bit horrified is part of the fun. The pen-and-watercolor illustrations fit well with the text. The bugs are appropriately threatening and gruesome. Another book on the topic for a slightly older age group is L. A. Mound's Amazing Insects (Knopf, 1993). Margery Facklam's The Big Bug Book (Little, 1994) provides many details about large species and the illustrations portray them in their actual size. Monster Bugs might create interest and lead readers to other, more challenging titles.-Anne Parker, Milton Public Library, MA