Maggots, Grubs, and More
The Secret Lives of Young Insects
by Melissa Stewart
Millbrook, 2003
for Grades 3–6
ISBN 978–0‑7613–2658‑8
Purchase this book at your local independent bookseller or Amazon.com.
It’s easy to picture an adult bumblebee or dragonfly, but do you know what these insects looked like while they were growing up? Many young insects look completely different from the adults they will eventually become. Years ago, scientists didn’t even realize that most grubs would become beetles or that maggots would soon transform into adult flies. This book tells the amazing stories of their hidden lives.
Honors and Awards
- National Council for Social Studies/Children’s Book Council, Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
Reviews
“The text is meticulous in its descriptions of individual species’ life cycles; it describes where and when the insects lay their eggs; the average time it takes them to hatch; the average number of molts, etc. Sharp color photographs accompany the text on every other page. This lucid, well-organized introduction will serve as an excellent [addition to any collection].” (School Library Journal)
“With narrative interest that will appeal to middle-grade readers … vivid close-up color photos … The shape-shifting transformations are captivating.” (The Horn Book Guide)
Behind the Book
“The idea for this book came from my nephew, who was fascinated by insects. We would go to the library, check out piles of insect books, take them home, and read them together. One day, he asked if we could get a book about insects that were still growing up — just like him. I couldn’t find any, so I called up my editor and asked if she’d like me to write one. She thought it was a great idea, so I got to work on the book right away.”
by Melissa Stewart
Millbrook, 2003
for Grades 3–6
ISBN 978–0‑7613–2658‑8
Purchase this book at your local independent bookseller or Amazon.com.