Ants Don't Wear Pants!: Toon Level 1 (Giggle and Learn)

K-Gr 2-In the newest title in the "Giggle and Learn" series, a girl and boy imagine shrinking to the size of ants. Direct, often playful text describes basic facts about ants, such as their physical features and life cycles. Accurate cartoon illustrations add to the lighthearted tone. One full-page drawing shows two ants as they "tap each other with their antennae to share news." Antennae, jaws, and other body parts are clearly identifiable, while subtle facial expressions and a word balloon for one ant inject just the right amount of humor. Well-chosen tidbits, such as elephants' fear of ants, are accompanied by engaging illustrations. The author conveys the variety of ant species with some especially interesting examples such as the trap-jaw ant and exploding ants. The premise of the kids shrinking, then growing back at the end, is not fully explored, but there's plenty of lively and intriguing information, with high visual appeal. VERDICT An excellent choice for younger readers who like animal facts peppered with humor.-Steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR