Books in Odd Adaptations series

It isn't unusual to see a spider hanging out in the middle of its complex silk web, just waiting for a tasty bug to come by. Less well-known is a spider that digs a burrow in the ground. Several species are known for doing this, and the reason why isn't as odd as it seems. Arachnid aficionados will love finding out about the weird adaptations that these creatures have developed. Intriguing text and in-depth sidebars are supported by remarkable photographs of all kinds of arachnids in their wild habitats.

Jellyfish are some of the creepiest creatures out there. They're about 95 percent water and basically evaporate when they wash up on a beach, and, they don't have brains! This absorbing book details how these animals survive without this important organ and other weird facts about the invertebrate world. Even more fascinating than the freaky facts are the eye-catching images that illustrate each crucial concept. Sidebars and graphic organizers present more valuable information.

Not many people report being bitten by a frog. But many will notice the weird ooze that seeps out of a toads skin when theyre picked up. These are just two strange adaptations that have helped amphibians survive in their environment. Thats also why salamanders need the ability to regrow limbsor even part of their brain! Curious future scientists learn all about these awesome adaptations as well as other important topics such as the unique amphibian life cycle, all complemented by full-color, up-close photographs.

Mimicry is an awesome, and sometimes slightly weird, adaptation that many animals have developed. In many instances, it's a lifesaver, encouraging possible predators to stay away. That's the case with some kinds of harmless moths. They really look like stinging insects such as wasps and hornets, and sometimes even sound like them, which is effective for scaring away enemies like birds. Young entomologists will learn so much more about the amazing world of insects in the intriguing text and photographs in this valuable volume, a wonderful addition to any science collection.

Jellyfish are some of the creepiest creatures out there. They're about 95 percent water and basically evaporate when they wash up on a beach, and, they don't have brains! This absorbing book details how these animals survive without this important organ and other weird facts about the invertebrate world. Even more fascinating than the freaky facts are the eye-catching images that illustrate each crucial concept. Sidebars and graphic organizers present more valuable information.

There are few behavioral adaptations that seem more odd to us than cannibalism. Scientists have noticed the rising incidence of lobster cannibals in recent years, and the reason may be connected to global warming. Readers will find the odd information about these and other crustaceans to be a fascinating study in animal adaptations, a crucial component of the elementary science curriculum. Vivid photographs and informative sidebars reinforce the engaging text.

The appendix seems useless. Most peoples baby toes are so small, they seem unimportant. There are so many odd parts of the human body, each page of this volume is able to reveal fascinating adaptations of the body readers didnt even know they wanted to know! Including up-to-date scientific findings explained in understandable and age-appropriate language, the main content satisfies readers curiosity as well as parts of the science curriculum. Full-color photographs, diagrams, and supplementary sidebars help readers understand human body systems, evolution, and even why people have chins!

"Fungi seem mysterious--they're not animals and they're not plants. Some aren't even visible to the human eye. Yet, they're constantly at work breaking down dead organisms. Our world would be cluttered without them! This beneficial book sheds much-needed light on the fungi kingdom, explaining what a fungus is as well as some the weirdest adaptations that have made it a successful survivor in the natural world. Graphic organizers summarize essential points, while vivid photographs display how bright and beautiful these organisms can be."--

Reese and David are not normal teens-not since they were adapted with alien DNA by the Imria, an extraterrestrial race that has been secretly visiting Earth for decades. Now everyone is trying to get to them: the government, the Imria, and a mysterious corporation that would do anything for the upper hand against the aliens.Beyond the web of conspiracies, Reese can't reconcile her love for David with her feelings for her ex-girlfriend, Amber, an Imrian. But Reese's choice between two worlds will play a critical role in determining the future of humanity, the Imria's place in it, and the inheritance she and David will bring to the universe.In this gripping sequel to Adaptation, Malinda Lo brings a thoughtful exploration of adolescence, sexuality, and "the other" to a science-fiction thriller that is impossible to put down.

An adaptation for the stage of this modern children's classic by the best-selling author and 2005 Children's Laureate.For her history project, Charlie hits on the idea of writing the diary of Lottie, a young Victorian serving girl. When Charlie's mother loses her job as a shop manageress and starts work as a cleaner, Charlie's previously happy and comfortable lifestyle is threatened, and she finds her own hardships and struggles are not so different from Lottie's.First staged at the Polka Children's Theatre in 1999, this adaptation is suitable for young actors as well as young audiences. The adapter, Vicky Ireland, has provided production notes to indicate how the play can be staged even with minimal resources - plus a lot of ingenuity!

There are few behavioral adaptations that seem more odd to us than cannibalism. Scientists have noticed the rising incidence of lobster cannibals in recent years, and the reason may be connected to global warming. Readers will find the odd information about these and other crustaceans to be a fascinating study in animal adaptations, a crucial component of the elementary science curriculum. Vivid photographs and informative sidebars reinforce the engaging text.