Insects

Children's Literature

One in a series of books about prehistoric life, this volume traces the emergence of insect life on earth some 390 million years ago, their adaptations, groups and life cycles, as well as insect fossils. Using color photos, drawings and maps, the book presents an interesting layout for upper elementary or middle school students. All facets of the study of insects are briefly presented, but unfortunately, the author has chosen to not only use the various eras to describe prehistoric changes such as the Paleozoic Era, but uses the term period, such as the Cretaceous Period in the text without illustrating how the terms are related. The eras are presented in a graphic timeline. It would have been helpful for the periods to be illustrated in a timeline as they related to the various eras, as well. This is a lot of information for the intended audience. Otherwise, the book makes an interesting resource for the study of prehistoric life. An activity, quiz, index, glossary and sources for further study are included. Part of the "Prehistoric Life" series. 2004, Weigl Publishers, Ages 9 to 12.
—Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.