ALA Booklist (Wed Oct 01 00:00:00 CDT 2014)

From the award-winning science author Johnson comes another somewhat gross and definitely engrossing book. Here, she introduces eight lesser-known animals with natural defenses to ward off unsuspecting predators. For each animal, a color photograph takes center stage on the first page, accompanied by a text box with vital statistics and followed by an encounter between the animal and a predator. Then, in "The Science behind the Story," abundant photos accompany biologists' explanations of how the natural defense mechanisms work. For instance, a peacock mantis shrimp's forelimbs can move about 50 mph in 1.8 milliseconds to land a powerful knockout punch to an octopus. One such shrimp even shattered the wall of an aquarium. As she researched the animals, Johnson talked with and learned from the scientists who study these interesting creatures. Includes detailed source notes, a glossary, a bibliography, and more. Some of the animals are featured in other similar books, but few bring them together with such a flair.

Horn Book (Wed Apr 01 00:00:00 CDT 2015)

Peacock mantis shrimp punching octopuses into retreat, hagfish suffocating sharks with slime, and fulmar chicks projectile vomiting up to six feet to destroy the waterproofing of their predators' feathers are but a few of the remarkable animal defense mechanisms introduced in this book. Though some of the photographs are unfocused, Johnson's descriptions of these amazing creatures are fascinating. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

School Library Journal (Tue Jul 01 00:00:00 CDT 2014)

Gr 3-6 This title explodes with fascinating facts and action-packed photographs that convey how different creatures have evolved to escape predators. Each chapter is chock-full of interesting tidbits ("Hagfish are nicknamed snot eels for good reason: they can release handfuls of slippery slime in seconds"). Chapters begin with a gripping description of the creature evading a hungry animal, followed by a section called "The Science Behind the Story," which explains the mechanics of the survival method. The book is well designed, featuring bold splotches of color that accent each page and large, colorful photographs layered with info-bubbles highlighting key details. Readers will also find a variety of additional resources, such as books, websites, and YouTube videos. A visually stimulating and informative addition. Melissa Smith, Royal Oak Public Library, MI