Inside the Ants' Nest

Gr 1–3—A step up in complexity from Bullfrog's "Insect World" series, this set presents basic animal information built around the features of each creature's habitat. The mole cricket's burrow, for example, expands to discussion of its physical characteristics, feeding habits, and mating behavior. Words are simple and direct, with an extra space often added between sentences to aid new readers. The layout is also helpful, with main text plus an inset image on the left, a full-page photograph on the right, and arrows that clearly connect captions to the appropriate image. Occasional questions encourage student involvement (e.g., "How do you think a new hive forms?"), with the answer usually provided within the text of the subsequent page. A "Science Lab" feature at the end provides instructions for replicating or writing about the animal's home. Though not terrifically visually exciting, the level of information and the organized presentation are a good fit for the intended audience.