These easy-to-read texts provide basic--and selective--information about the title insects. Topics include body parts, life cycles, predators and protections, and how the insect contributes to the planet's well-being. Traits specific to each animal, such as how bees make honey or how dragonflies hunt their prey, are also discussed. Closeup, visually engaging photographs illustrate the texts. Glos., ind.

MURRAY, Julie . Beans . ISBN 978-1-59928-702-7 . LC 2006034265. MURRAY, Julie . Bees . ISBN 978-1-59928-703-4 . LC 2006034267. MURRAY, Julie . Chickens . ISBN 978-1-59928-704-1 . LC 2006034266. MURRAY, Julie . Corn . ISBN 978-1-59928-705-8 . LC 2006031419. ea vol: 24p. (Life Cycles Series). photos. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. ABDO/Buddy Bks. 2007. PLB $21.35. Gr 1-2 Following a precise format, each title is divided into several two- or three-page chapters. The text in the first chapter of each book ("What Is a Life Cycle?") is identical except for the necessary vocabulary specific to each topic. The font is appropriate for younger readers. A high-quality color photo appears on almost every page, though some (especially those depicting machinery) are somewhat dated. Captions usually add to the text. Though it is a versatile plant, the soybean featured in Beans is an unusual choice. Chickens contains a grammatical error, while all of the titles have an annoying habit of beginning sentences with "and." These books are not wonderful, but they are acceptable additional purchases. Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS