Spiders and Their Webs

Fascinating fare for budding naturalists. (Nonfiction. 8-10

Gr 3-5 -Outstanding color photographs capture the natural beauty of spider webs in this unique volume. A preface discusses a few major characteristics shared by all spiders and some special characteristics of web builders, followed by profiles of nine different species. Each one is introduced on a page of large-print text and illustrated with a sharp photo and a fact panel listing the scientific name, average size, habitat, prey, etc. The main text briefly describes some key physical and behavioral characteristics of the featured species, how its web functions, and the consistency of the spider silk threads used. The concluding sections describe five additional uses of spider silk, give directions for making webs visible outdoors, and relate some of the author's experiences in putting the book together. A lucid glossary of terms, some of which are not mentioned in the text, and a short list of books, magazines, and Web sites are appended. While the text is clearly written and well organized, it is the photography that stands out here. With its marvelous pictures, clear text, and fresh approach to a popular topic, this title will be a good companion volume to Sandra Markle's "Outside and Inside Spiders" (S & S, 1994) and Seymour Simon's "Spiders" (HarperCollins, 2003)." -Karey Wehner, formerly at San Francisco Public Library" Copyright 2005 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.