The Slug (Disgusting Critters)

Gr 2-4--These easy-to-read titles aim to amuse and inform in tandem. A cartoon rat or slug provides silly commentary to accompany an array of factoids about its respective subjects' physical characteristics and life style. (While the narrator explains that rats are enamored of human foodstuffs and garbage, this protagonist requests "more delicious electrical wire in tomato sauce.") Rat reproduction is mentioned nowhere, and as for slugs, well, the information is ambiguous. Looking "to find a partner and have babies," this slug hero/heroine (being both) follows another slug's mucus trail and then "lays its eggs." The book fails to discuss contact between the slugs, which will surely result in many questions from young readers. Still, gently amusing and somewhat informative, these cartoon books will find a home in many a classroom library and will meet the basic needs for those children who dread nonfiction book reports.--Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Probably the grossest, but funniest, illustration is when the slug meets the snotty-nosed baby. That's the two-page spread that a child will likely thrust into the face of a friend, hoping to get a loud response of "GROSS!" or "YUCK!" If a librarian or teacher is looking for an informational book for research, this isn't it; but, it is a great, fun way to engage readers and share giggles." - Booklist

"Readers will find the humorous cartoons to be a refreshing alternative to the photographs commonly found in non-fiction books. These pictures, paired with simple facts, make this book suitable for early readers, and could ease the transition into non-fiction for children who are reluctant to explore the genre. It is also recommended for readers who are ready to start exploring simple chapter books. The Slug would be a welcome addition to both public and school library collections." - Deakin Review of Children's Literature