NONFICTION

Wild Style: Amazing Animal Adornments

by Jenna Grodzicki
Millbrook. Sept. 2020. 32p. Tr $27.99. ISBN 9781541581234.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 3–Grodzicki examines how animals protect themselves from predators and thrive in their environment. The book emphasizes the “wild” factor in both words and illustrations. There are a wide variety of adaptations. The sponge crab is described as having a “yucky taste”; an assassin bug “carries a heap of dead ants” whose insides it has first sucked out; and a golden tortoise beetle larva carries a “stinky umbrella,” which includes fecal matter attached to its spine called an anal fork. The book’s concept relies on the “ick” factor. Explanations of these animal features are reinforced by bright print and bold illustrations. Back matter provides “wild facts” about the “cool creatures” detailed in the book.
VERDICT A possible supplement to animal studies. Educators and caretakers should read the book first before sharing so that they are ready for responses to some of the more unsavory animal attributes such as the beetle’s “poop umbrella.”
Reviewed by Myra Zarnowski, City Univ. of New York , Sep 01, 2020

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Tide’s Journey
by Walker, Sally M.
BOOKS

Whose Footprint Is That?
by Lunde, Darrin
BOOKS

The Tiniest Giant
by Ciletti, Barbara
BOOKS

I Can Say Eat!
by Cohen, Stephanie
BOOKS

This Is Hip-Hop: And Other Street Dances
by Rajan, Rekha S.
BOOKS

My First Milestones: Ready to Walk
by Wildish, Lee
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?