Book Review: When Lunch Fights Back: Wickedly Clever Animal Defenses

From the compelling title to the extraordinary illustrations, WHEN LUNCH FIGHTS BACK: WICKEDLY CLEVER ANIMAL DEFENSES by Rebecca L. Johnson is an informational book that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Even the chapter titles like “slip-sliming away” and “here’s blood in your eye” are designed to shock and entertain.

The author uses a short narrative to introduce each creature. Then, a “science behind the story” segment describes the species’ method of defense featuring a scientist who studies how the defense system works.

Quality photographs and informational boxes bring attention to each featured creature. The glossary at the end of the book defines key vocabulary. Suggested books, websites, and videos are provided to extend the experience.

Aimed at upper elementary grades, this book will fit well into the school library collection. Containing a balance of entertaining narratives along with quality informative segments, it’s is sure to attract a wide range of readers.

To learn more about this author, go to Rebecca L. Johnson’s website at http://www.rebeccajohnsonbooks.com/.

For additional materials related to animal defenses, try the following online resources:
Animal Defenses from PBS LearningMedia - http://goo.gl/6c7WVg
Top 5 Animal Defense Tactics from National Geographic - http://goo.gl/gU9MVB
Animal Arsenal from Fact Monster - http://goo.gl/njFWXQ

NetGalley ARC used for review