Review by School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 4-In a clear, easy-to-read style, Berger discusses how arachnids differ from insects, how they catch and eat their prey, and how webs protect them from their enemies. Five different types of spiders are included, along with information about how they create and utilize their unique webs. Detailed, full-color illustrations, often on spreads, highlight the well-organized text. Close-up scenes of these creatures at work capture the delicacy and beauty of their amazing creations. Pertinent Web sites and directions for mounting and preserving a web without harming a spider are appended. A lively and interesting look at a popular subject.-Doris Losey, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, Tampa, FL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
Berger provides a fine introduction to types of spiders, how they spin their webs, and the ways they use their webs. Schindler's detailed illustrations support the text and focus on different features of spiders. Facts about spiders being generally harmless add to the value of the text. A spider web project and two organizational websites are provided for additional information. From HORN BOOK Fall 2003, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
A beautifully illustrated, informative entry in the Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science series explores the biology of spinning spiders. The text dutifully explains the distinction between insects and arachnids, eschewing scientific terminology in favor of language that will be crystal-clear to a primary-grade audience. The catching, killing, and eating of flies is described with a ghoulish relish appropriate to the audience: "Once the fly's insides have turned to mush, the spider can slurp it up." Also included is an overview of the many uses and forms of webs. Schindler's illustrations are a marvel of clarity and composition, varying perspective and picturing several different kinds of spiders in action. Berger's text, on the other hand, while informative, is for the most part lackluster. Also, the meticulous illustrations, sadly enough, are not labeled, so unless specific mention of a particular spider is made in the body of the text, the many others depicted will remain anonymous. These and other deficiencies make this offering an additional, rather than a necessary, purchase. Back matter provides a web-preserving activity and offers two Web sites for further consultation. (Picture book/nonfiction. 5-8) Copyright ©Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
