These aren't your favorite fuzzy caterpillars. These are the weird, the frightening, and the freakish!

Murawski introduces the reader to a fascinating variety of caterpillars through the lens of her research and photography. She explains the physiology of caterpillars, their food, defenses and more.

Each section on a part of the caterpillar's life cycle or habitat includes stunning photographs with extensive captions, projects like raising a caterpillar or experimenting with caterpillar sight, and anatomical drawings.

The book finishes with instructions on helping caterpillars survive, writing topics, a summary of the facts included in the book, glossary, additional reading, index, and notes from the author.

The Face to Face series is perfect for grade school children who want more in-depth information on various animals or are writing reports for school and this title is an excellent one. I would have liked to know a little more about the author/research ala Scientists in the Field, but that's the only drawback to this series in my opinion.

Verdict: This title and the others in the Face to Face series are highly recommended. A must-have for your nonfiction section, they are the perfect book to hand to kids who want to look at amazing photographs and explore the world of animals and bugs.

ISBN: 9781426300523; Published May 2007 by National Geographic; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library