Minibeasts Under a Stone

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5–In this series, a minibeast is defined as an invertebrate—usually an insect, but not always. Approximately 20 animals are described in each title, with information on life cycles, diet, habitats, and survival. The description of each animal includes a depiction of its true size, since the colorful, interestingly captioned photos often show the minibeasts greatly magnified. Sidebars offer interesting facts about each one, and the books also describe activities that can be done in each type of habitat that will encourage young scientists’ observational skills. A closing identification guide gives information, in the form of a chart, about the animals profiled in the book and other invertebrates that may be found in the same habitat. There is some repetition found across some of the books, particularly in Compost Heap, Soil, and Stone. All three of these titles include information on slugs, snails, and centipedes. However, this series will work both for assignments and for budding invertebrate zoologists.