Which is your favourite bug?

Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!

Written by: Susan Martineau

Illustrated by: Vicki Barker

Published by: b small

Published on: 24th July 2025

Price: £12.99

First line: Bugs are everywhere.

Genre: Non-fiction, Animals, Science

Age: 8+

ISBN: 9781916851252

Thanks to the UKLA for the review copy.

What’s it all about? Not a topic to excite many people, I think! The title is a rallying cry to engage more children in the wonderful world of mini-beasts and their powerful place in our environment. I think the front cover illustrations are spot-on. Beautifully drawn, but not too intimidating to put some people off, who might be scared of this topic. This book covers a wide range of minibeasts and their skills: from minibeast babies, to super senses and silky superpowers. Each of the pages is designed differently with pleasing and calm pastel-coloured backgrounds and detailed pictures.

Why should I read it? The writing is clear and interesting for ages 8+. The amount of information is about right: not too many facts, but interestingly chosen ones. Some information is randomly spread around the page, whilst others is ordered, such as the life cycle of a bee. I like how some of the bugs are given speech bubbles to talk to the reader. At the heart of this book, is a passion and wonder of all these special creatures, and that really come across quite strongly. There is also a message to the young reader about how they need to get involved in understanding more about bugs and how to save them for the future of the planet. I do think the author needs to be a little more careful with their use of terminology: such as bugs, minibeasts and insects, especially in a science book. There is a glossary which explains key words specific for bugs. A great addition to a busy genre for you scientists.