Rain Forest Insects and Spiders cover

Rain Forest Insects and Spiders

Author: Parker, Edward

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 8.2
Points 2.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Nonfiction
Word Count 9207
Points per Word 0.000217

Description

This book explains why some insects glow in the dark, what a hissing cockroach is, and why some ants suddenly explode.

Quick Summary

Ever wonder why some rainforest insects glow like tiny lanterns? Parker dishes out the surprising science behind bioluminescent beetles, the hissing sound of a cockroach that can scare off predators, and the bizarre self-destructive defense of exploding ants. It's a quick, fact-packed read that appeals to any kid who loves weird nature trivia, and even those who usually shy away from non-fiction will find the short chapters and quirky sidebars hard to put down. Parents will be glad to know the tone is playful and educational, with just enough ick factor to keep things exciting without crossing into truly scary territory. If you enjoy discovering the strange superpowers of bugs, you might also check out "The Secret Life of Insects" for more, but Parker's book stands out for its rainforest focus. By the end, you'll be armed with enough mind-blowing facts to wow your friends and maybe even look at a leaf-cutter ant with a new sense of awe.