About This Book:
- How tiny spiders build unbreakable webs
- Clever spiders that shapeshift to hide from predators and seek out prey
- The surprising role of spiders in our ecosystems
*Review Contributed By Evren Dodd, Staff Reviewer*
Fun and Amazing
ARE SPIDER WEBS STRONGER THAN STEEL teaches children about spiders’ web-building techniques and how humans use it. Focusing on the science of arachnology, the book shows students the amazing world of spiders and the webs that they weave.
What I Loved:
After discussing the many ways that spiders use and weave their webs, the author poses the question: is spider silk stronger than steel? This allows the author to delve into the surprising uses humans have found for this silk as well as the experiments being run in the real-world.
This book may use words above the suggested age range, but they seem to try to do it in a way that children will still be able to understand. At the back of the book is a glossary with definitions for harder words. There is also a pronunciation guide for some of the terms. A way to challenge students with a wider vocabulary, while also still ensuring that they are able to understand the book.
The illustrations in this book are lovingly crafted, showcasing the information in a stunning display of art. The art is full of color and life, the illustrator carefully bringing to life the many creatures that paint the pages. The colors are bright and the art is detailed, allowing a realistic view of what is being discussed.
Final Verdict:
A beautiful mixture of information and vibrant pictures, ARE SPIDER WEBS STRONGER THAN STEEL allows children to discover the amazing things that spider silk can do. Discussing both the human and spiders uses for this silk, the book includes real-world examples to truly highlight this amazing spectacle.
