Paleo Bugs: Survival of the Creepiest
Starred Review. Grade 3–7—Large, digitally colored pencil sketches will draw readers into this appealing title about prehistoric arthropods and their relatives. The book is organized into sections about bugs of the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras. Each one begins with a visual and textual vignette in which readers are asked to imagine the sights and sounds of the environment of the time. Then several species of that period are each given a full page or spread that includes a vivid picture and up-to-date information based on the fossil record. A clever visual sidebar compares the size of the bug with a human child, and a second sidebar elucidates a scientific discovery or compares the ancient species to its modern-day descendant. Absolutely necessary pronunciation guides appear as needed. The bibliography is divided into titles for "younger readers" and for "older readers and adults." A few small grammatical glitches do not detract from the value of this title. Its good science, excellent organization, and eye-catching illustrations make it a fine choice for browsers and researchers.—Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.