Reading Level: Grade 1 Interest Level: Grades K – 3
Blending in with their surroundings, praying mantises easily grab prey with their spiny front legs. These insects enjoy munching on grasshoppers, spiders, and even small birds and lizards! With a triangular head that can turn 180 degrees and long legs that look like they’re praying, these insects are sure to attract curious kids.
With one or two sentences per page, these titles provide first introductions to tiny but interesting creatures. Most of the text covers body features and general behaviors, with just the most basic level of information. Close-up photographs support the words effectively. The black widow’s fangs and a slug eating a leaf are among several eye-catching excellent examples; biting ticks are less appealing but equally useful. Sentence structure and most vocabulary are aimed at new readers. Bolded words refer to the glossary at the end, although in some cases the captioned image offers sufficient visual context. Readers won’t find much detail or depth, but there are just enough facts to engage curiosity, along with attractive visuals and readability levels that are on target for new readers. VERDICT Fairly high appeal at a basic level just right for early elementary readers.
