Because of a Storm: The Spongy Moth: A Small Bug with a Big (and Icky) Impact
An engaging true story that combines science, history, and environmental literacy to explore invasive species, ecosystems, and how even the most troublesome creatures can teach valuable lessons. Perfect for young readers interested in nature, animals, insects, ecology, invasive species, and environmental protection.
Kids ages 8-10 Grades: 2-5
US$26.00 - Hardcover
US$16.98 - Softcover
Raining poop! Clouds of moths! Leafless summer trees! Sound too strange to be real? It’s not! Welcome to the wild, wiggly world of the spongy moth, an invasive species that’s been bugging North America for over 150 years. It’s as gross as it is fascinating.
In this bug-filled adventure, you’ll:
- Travel back to the 1800s to learn how this problem started.
- Meet a scientist who's been studying these pesky bugs for over 30 years.
- Discover how acorns, mice, birds, mammals, and even weather impact outbreaks.
- Learn about a fungus that is helping us fight back.
This story illustrates how even gross creatures can teach us something about our world, making it a great addition to children's sustainability books.
This book is for any kid who likes weird nature facts and yucky bug stories, perfect for those interested in eco-friendly books for kids!
What Kids Will Discover Inside
- A history of how spongy moths arrived in North America.
- The science behind spongy moth outbreaks and collapse.
- An introduction to cause and effect, which can lead to unintended consequences.
Rich Back Matter Includes:
- Examples of unintended consequences that led to things we use every day.
- More history on how and why spongy moths were brought to North America.
- More details on the spongy moth boom and bust cycle, with an easy-to-follow flow chart diagram.
- How we are fighting back.
- Resources
Perfect for:
- Elementary and middle-grade STEM and environmental science books, focusing on ecosystems, food webs, invasive species, and real-life science.
- Ideal for young naturalists curious about nature, animals, and our amazing planet.
- School libraries seeking strong narrative nonfiction.
- Nature centers.