Tag: 30 Million Different Insects in the Rain Forest

Looking for a new way to teach infographics to middle graders? 30 Million Different Insects in the Rainforest (The Big Countdown) by Paul Rockett and illustrated by Mark Ruffle is all about visualizing numbers and infographics.

Although the title might cause you to believe this book is about insects, it is actually all about rain forests. The first spread is a map that shows where tropical and temperate rain forests are found throughout the world. Tucked in around the sides are infographics about the numbers of plant and animals species per 1 km² and how number of species are evaluated.

The next infographic does show the number of insect species of seven major groups found in the rain forest. This particular graphic is interesting because the numbers increase from top to bottom, instead of the more traditional bottom to top. The reverse placement emphasizes the need to pay attention to the scale when reading graphs.

Continuing on, the reader will find out all about rain forests, including the people that live there, the layered structure, and even about poison dart frogs. Why it is so important to protect the rain forests is emphasized, particularly how rain forests produce oxygen.

30 Million Different Insects in the Rainforest is a catchy title that will help children learn the basics of handling data and statistics, while also learning about how important the rain forest is to our planet. In a world that increasing relies on infographics to present complex information visually, this book is a great way for students to get prepared.

Age Range: 8 and up
Publisher: Raintree (August 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1410968839
ISBN-13: 978-1410968838

Disclosure: This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. Also, I am an affiliate with Amazon so I can provide you with cover images and links to more information about books and products. As you probably are aware, if you click through the highlighted title link and purchase a product, I will receive a very small commission, at no extra cost to you. Any proceeds help defray the costs of hosting and maintaining this website.

Looking for more children’s nonfiction books? Try the Nonfiction Monday blog.