How To Survive as a Firefly

Gr 2–5—Does anyone really know where fireflies come from? This book tackles the question with colorful cartoon drawings and a humorous story line involving a group of firefly larvae. Newly hatched, they get whipped into shape by an R. Lee Ermey—esque drill sergeant who guides them through the mysterious metamorphosis process. He outlines the process from egg to larvae, pupa, and finally adult. Readers find out what fireflies eat in each stage and how they change. The chemical component behind their bioluminescence, which is not exclusive to the adult stage, is also discussed. A "Frequently Asked Questions" section and a glossary round out the content. The dense, complex text, which contains scientific nomenclature, is beyond the comprehension of younger elementary school students. However, the popularity of fireflies will boost kid interest. Foote authored the similarly formatted How To Survive as a Shark, which also tackles the life cycle of a misunderstood animal.