This post is part of a weekly series of synopses of children’s books, written by First Book staff members.This post is part of a weekly series of synopses of children’s books, written by First Book staff members.

I Like Bugs, by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by G. Brian Karas. Do you like bugs? You will once you see the colorful illustrations and descriptions in this book. Ideal for children just beginning to read. Grades K-2.


Hungry Plants, by Mary Batten, illustrated by Paul Mirocha. Did you know that some plants eat insects? Inside you’ll find out how and why these plants need to eat meat. Grades 3-4.

The River, by Gary Paulsen. After surviving a plane crash in the wilderness that left him alone with only a hatchet, Brian survived for nearly two months and arrived home a changed boy. Now some adults want Brian to teach them how he did it, but go back to the wilderness? He decides to go back but he can’t possibly imagine what’s in store for their band of outdoorsmen. Grades 5-6.