Behold the Beautiful Dung Beetle

November 1, 2014
Gr 1-4-Even if this succinct assortment of facts does not convince children of the beauty of dung beetles, they will definitely appreciate that these insects exist. These creatures are wonderful little helpers when it comes to waste removal, and helping "dung, feces, or poop" to decompose benefits not only the dung beetle but the Earth as well. Young listeners will learn that there are three main types-rollers, tunnelers, and dwellers. Each type varies in size, how they consume their meals, where they live, and what types of poop they prefer. The life cycle is covered, as well as some historical facts, including why ancient Egyptians worshipped them. There is enough here for a short report, and a glossary is also available. The narrator, Eliza Foss, keeps an even pace and uses variation in tone to keep listeners interested. The second track includes page-turn signals for young readers. This audiobook would be enjoyable with pictures and text to follow, so when possible, pair it with the book.-"Terri Norstrom, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL"

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2014

Gr 1-4-While transforming animals' waste products into life-giving material, dung beetles perform a vital cleaning service to the environment. This overview of the three types of dung beetles sometimes uses fanciful language, e.g., the "dung-pat pie fresh from the oven," but rather than distract, it lightens the topic. Often arriving within 15 seconds of the "drop," the dwellers, rollers, and tunnelers compete fiercely for control of the fresh poop. Each species extracts nutrient-filled moisture from the warm material, either on the spot (dwellers) or as they roll it off or push it into tunnels. Vivid watercolor and pencil illustrations show the life cycle of these flying, crawling creatures. The narrative is divided on each spread, with brief text on one page and a more detailed explanation on the other. The lowly dung beetle was exalted in ancient Egypt, and its vital role in nature is beautifully recognized once again.-Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Fairfax County Public Library, VA

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.