Gr 3-5
Each colorful, clearly written survey profiles from 8 to 10 creatures that pose a significant danger to humans; most are venomous. In two- to four-page sections, short paragraphs of text outline the animals' geographic range, habitats, distinctive characteristics, etc. The methods they employ to attack and kill prey are described in more detail, and encounters with people are included. Most of the creatures discussed are predators, but Bugs also has sections on plant eaters, parasites, etc., that describe how the respective insects feed. One or two sharp color photographs appear on every spread; most are close-ups of the creatures, but the first two titles also include a few shots of injured human body parts. All three titles are marred by oversimplification and the omission of some important information. The lack of captions is a handicap as some of the photos don't match the text. Another flaw-the books are sprinkled with mild pejoratives that display an unscientific bias (e.g., "horrible" hobo spiders). Although these books will attract browsers, Nathan Aaseng's Poisonous Creatures (21st Century Bks., 1997) is a better choice as it includes more detailed information on animal venom, profiles many of the same creatures, and has a more scientific point of view.
—Karey WehnerCopyright 2006 Reed Business Information.
