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by Rebecca L Johnson
Published 2013 by Millbrook Press
48 Pages
With 48 pages and a lot of text, this is not really a picture book so I am breaking the rules a bit here. However it offers some interesting, if not downright disturbing, information that older kids are sure to enjoy.
Goodreads Summary
Examines creatures that can take over the bodies and brains of other creatures and turns them into slaves, from a fly-enslaving fungus to a cockroach-taming wasp.
My Thoughts
Ew, ew, ew! This book tackles a really disgusting topic. I really could have lived without knowing about some of the ways an animal's body can be taken over by fungus, viruses, and insects. There are real photos and "behind the science" facts to accompany each example. While I found it hard to read, many kids will LOVE it for the same reasons I found it disturbing. I know some of my fourth graders will be reading it with their friends as the information is just too gross not to share. I recommend it for grades 4-8.
This video is listed in the "More to Explore" section. After showing it, you won't be able to keep this book on the shelf.
