Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown

by Sallana Brown, Beatriz Gouveia (illustrator)

Jeremy and his friends are on a mission - to save the ash trees of a nearby forest from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer Beetles!

Join them as they team up to restore balance to our environment and discover how courage, clever thinking, hard work, and negotiation can lead to success!

Follow this heroic team and learn about the danger of invasive species, the wonders of the natural world, and the importance of teamwork.

An exciting adventure awaits!

Genres: Childrens

47 pages, Paperback

Published November 15, 2023

About the author

Sallana Brown is an award-winning author of inspiring books that teach the importance of empathy, resilience, grit, collaboration, creative thinking, and resourcefulness. Her books are cultivating reader loyalty, with her latest work, "SARAH'S GENE-IUS DISCOVERY" (Apr 2024), already receiving industry acclaim.

"Sarah's Gene-ius Discovery teaches you everything you need to know about DNA and how exciting science can be. I appreciated the story's clear explanation of complicated scientific concepts." - Readers' Favorite

"The themes are resonant and relevant, and they are brilliantly written for young readers, from friendship to adventure, teamwork to camaraderie, and family dynamics to self-discovery." - The Book Commentary

To say THANK YOU to her readers, Sallana holds GIVEAWAYS on her website SallanaBrown.com. You're invited to enter.

Sign up to Get FREE STEM-themed activity books & printables. https://bit.ly/SallanaFREE. Be sure to follow her on BookBub for the latest on sales: https://bit.ly/BookBubSallana.

Reviews

[Carol Wyllie · Rating 5 out of 5]

educational fun

This book is fun and educational. It has great illustrations. I think teachers, parents and students will all enjoy it.

[Brittany Ribeiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book to teach kids about the planet

Won this on goodreads giveaways for my sister’s two kids . Great read how we can take care of the planet and how we can co exit

[Roxie Fiste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown is a mixture of whimsy and science! The story begins in the classroom as the kids learn about entomology, then quickly moves into the great outdoors with a fantasy element. As a former natural history educator, I found this book to be enlightening and educational for younger readers. There are activities that parents can request to go along with this book.

[Nicole Brown (The Crafty Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown is a book that discusses what invasive species are and how they can hurt other organisms, upsetting the natural balance of things.

This story follows Jeremy and his friends. While learning about entomology (the study of insects) they come across an insect they had never seen before, the Emerald Ash Bore. It's a beetle that feeds on the trunk under the bark of the ash tree as larvae, and then consumes the leaves as adults, leaving the tree weak and dying. Jeremy and his friends try to learn everything they can do to help the trees, but that's all I'll say. You'll need to read the book to see how it ends!

As someone who has seen the damage the emerald ash bore has done first hand, I think this is a fantastic book! It's an easy to understand way for me to explain to my children why the trees around us are dying and what we can do to help!

The only note I have is that I found the ending to be a bit, convenient. I get it's a children's book and that it's a good lesson to learn, but there was no establishment that the humans and bugs/animals could talk with each other before meeting the ash bores, so it kind of came out of left field for me.

But overall I think this is a fantastic book and will definitely pick it up for our home library!

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Educational

This is a cute story about the beetles and saving nature. This is great for any child to learn about not only the beetle but nature.

[Dahlia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! "Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown" is not only educational but also incredibly fun to read. The story is engaging, and I especially enjoyed the diverse group of friends and the character of Ms. Birch, the teacher. The illustrations are outstanding and really bring the story to life. Plus, the book offers additional educational materials like downloads, glossaries, and activities, making it a fantastic resource for both teachers and parents. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and enriching read for young readers!

[Deborah Zobel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book and how it educates children in a fun and whimsical way. I'm so glad I was at my friends house when she was reading it to her son. The illustrations are cute, cute, cute! There are so many life lessons woven into the story as well as information on entomology and invasive species. And, how fun for kids to learn negotiating skills by bargaining with the beetles! I think that's a cool twist that kids can relate to. Definitely sparks their imaginations!

[Ali Suchy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, adventurous children's picture book discovering bugs, etymology, and learning! Bright, detailed artwork encourages kids to discover all the bugs and friends on the page (shout out to awesome diversity with Jeremy's class), However, the story itself was very long, with big paragraphs on each page with big words. There is a pronunciation guide in the back, as well as a free activity kit provided by the author. Definitely a book better suited for lapsit reading, or maybe reading to older kids during their science unit.

[Bathsheba S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the children work together to identify and solve the problem without hesitation.
The author tapped into the magical mindset of a child and made the story interactive using talking beetles, adding excitement and humor to the story.

[Lisa Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really think there needs to be more approachable science books for young readers. This gorgeous little picture book tells a story about kids learning about science in class, but learning that they can make a difference in the real world.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this

[Chelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeremy and the beetle takedown

I loved this book. It’s a great way to teach children about saving the planet and it teaches them about insects. The art in the book was really cute. My daughter enjoyed seeing the pages and listening about the insects.

[LisaMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book held my grandson attention. The adventures Jeremy and his friends went on. Great book.

[Michael Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Etymology made fun for young readers

It’s not surprising that the author, Sallana Brown, is an educator who’s story inspires young readers aged 5-10 years old to learn and explore science. Follow the adventures of Jeremy and his in science class (and outdoors) as he learned about etymology, the butterfly lifecycle, and Emerald Ash Borer Beetles. Jeremy discovered how an invasive species destroys trees and potential remedies.

Every page had colorful illustrations by Beatriz Gouvria that should engage young readers while they learn scientific inquiry skills. The glossary had 22 entries to help young readers understand potentially unfamiliar words. There are also 12 Emerald Ash Borer Beetles facts and web links to locate more information.

As a bonus, the author provides a QR code to access a free copy of the Beatle Takedown Activity Kit.

[RK Byers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best part is the negotiation!

LOVED how Jeremy was able to explain to the beetles that they were hurting the trees and the beetles were able to understand! I’d have just gone out there blasting a bunch of songs by The Rolling Stones and hoped they got the message.

[Nirmalya Sarkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing and very informative

I am super amazed on the story and i loved how well the kids were concerned about the mother nature as well for the beetles, the best part of this bool is you get to know so many scientific facts, knowledge regarding Insects and i am sure it is more than enough to spark interest among kids towards science, absolutely loved it !!

[Carol Nkambule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeping the greens

Educatioal book on the environment around us. Great lessons for the little ones. Beautiful illustration and storyline.

Great read, well done author.

[Tanu Tiwari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Science with An Important Message!

Such a delightful read introducing entomology to little kids. Not only does it teach about insects and bugs but has a little twist in the story where a swarm of beetles take over the ash trees. The kids exploring have a wonderful idea to save the day and they come out heroes. My 5-year old is obsessed with insects and bugs and she really enjoyed it. Highly recommend it!

[Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, educational book about the Emerald Ash Borer Beetle. A little stiff and not always practical but it definitely has a great message of protecting our planet

[Katie Louise Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely relatable book for children. This story is fun, engaging and also educational. A group of students learning about insects and their importance to the environment. Children can really relate to this story as it’s very realistic. They would also learn about insects, their behaviours and habitats. Nice book. Well done. 👏

[Sallana Brown]

Okay, okay, I admit it. I might be a little biased. But hear me out, because Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown isn't just your average fun fiction story. It's "a delightful children's book that combines adventure, education, and environmental awareness in a captivating story." The Book Commentary

The story is bursting with:

- Science so sneaky, you won't even know you're learning: We're talking invasive species, ecological balance, and fun facts about insects, all woven into a plot that'll have your children asking questions.

- Characters you'll want to be best friends with: From the ever-enthusiastic Ms. Birch (the teacher we all wish we had!) to the science-loving protagonist, Jeremy. He and his friends will have you laughing, cheering, and learning new ways to negotiate.

- Adventures that go beyond the playground: Forget swings and slides, we're talking magnifying glasses, bug nets, and a mission to save the school's beloved ash trees from a beetle infestation. This isn't just recess; it's an eco-adventure where they learn ways to protect our planet!

- Art that brings the story to life: Beatriz Gouveia's illustrations are like sprinkles on a cupcake, adding vibrant humor and personality to every page. You'll be giggling at the children's expressions and swooning over the detailed nature scenes.

But here's the real reason you need this book in your life: It's about believing in yourself. Jeremy and his friends are just kids, but they face a big problem. They don't give up, though. They use their curiosity, creativity, and even a dash of imagination to make a difference. And that, my friends, is a message every kid needs to hear.

P.S. If you love the book, don't be shy! Share it with your friends, family, and anyone who secretly wishes recess was a bug-filled adventure. Let's spread the word and get everyone talking about saving our forest (in the best way possible, of course!).

Ready to join the adventure? Grab your copy here (Available in ebook, paperback, and audiobook): https://amzn.to/3RIfqZz

[Kamaljit · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story to teach children about insects and to care for the natural environment.

In school Jeremy learns about etymology and so many kinds of insects with his classmates. They study ladybugs, butterflies, bees and ants, learning about insect anatomies and life cycles.

After class the group goes outside – equipped with magnifying glasses. They search in flowers, under rocks, deep in the ground and inside trees discovering so many types of insects; and come across an unusual species devouring an old ash tree.

Find out what is eating the Ash trees.
Learn what the group did to help save the other ash trees.
Who else did they involve and what methods were used.
Learn what coexistence means. What changes can we make to aid natural habitats
This book also has a glossary and a free activity kit. A beautiful book with a great message!

[Peter A · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent intro to Entomology

There are many features I love about this book.
It starts with a request to protect the planet.
It has downloadable resources via QR
The story and illustrations are high quality.
The glossary at the back are a great resource.
Recommended for teachers and parents to encourage kids to dive into the world of entomology

[Shailendra Kushwaha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun Educational Book

Great book to spark interest in science, especially biology for the kids. The book has beautiful illustrations which catches kids attention. Its good to start teaching kids so that they become more environmentally inclusive human beings.

[ChapterNook · Rating 3 out of 5]

'Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown' by Sallana Brown is about a group of elementary students learning about Entomology who confront a specific type of invasive beetle and what said beetle is doing to their environment.
There are many good qualities to the story such as great illustrations, fantastic topic, kids engaging in science, teamwork and problem solving. There's a free activity kit available via QR code at the beginning of the book as well as a glossary and facts about the one specific type of beetle at the end.
With that said it didn't flow well. The transitions felt forced and rushed into, so much so that it made me often stop to wonder aloud at certain aspects.
Something that really stuck out to be was the beetles. Why do the they talk and why are they the only insects that can? This portion almost felt like it was a decision made at the last minute and may explain why the rest feels rushed and incomplete.
Finally, I wasn't excited about the title. It sounds as if they are defeating a foe when in the story it seems like the author wants to convey a sense of working WITH the beetles to get them to go away rather than fight them off.
A huge thank you to the Author, Publisher and Goodreads for allowing me the opportunity to read and provide an honest review.

[Nicole Brown (The Crafty Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jeremy and the Beetle Takedown is a book that discusses what invasive species are and how they can hurt other organisms, upsetting the natural balance of things.

This story follows Jeremy and his friends. While learning about entomology (the study of insects) they come across an insect they had never seen before, the Emerald Ash Bore. It's a beetle the feeds on the trunk under the bark of the ash tree as larvae, and then consumes the leaves as adults, leaving the tree weak and dying. Jeremy and his friends try to learn everything they can do to help the trees, but that's all I'll say. You'll need to read the book to see how it ends!

As someone who has seen the damage the emerald ash bore has done first hand, I think this is a fantastic book! It's a way for me to explain to my children why the trees around us are dying and what we can do to help!

The only note I have is that I found the ending to be a bit, convenient. I get it's a children's book and that it's a good lesson to learn, but there was no establishment that the humans and bugs/animals could talk with each other before meeting the ash bores, so it kind of came out of left field for me.

But overall I think this is a fantastic book and will definitely pick it up for our home library!

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Education meets adventure

I love that this book brings education and adventure together with a little “what if we could” talk to animals (beetles) to help change and improve our environment.

[Sandra M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

love love love

My nephew picked this book for our morning read. As an educator myself I love the concept of this book that not only entertains young readers with the images but acts as a learning platform. After reading, we discussed beetles, the importance of trees and its usages. , and a haring is always a big discussion too.

The glossary in the back was also a big help too.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you publishers and Netgalley for an E-ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

This book belongs in school libraries across the nation, or at the very least in elementary school science classrooms. It is such a fun and wholesome way to learn about bugs. Many kids like to get dirty and get fascinated about bugs. This is cute educational book that helps them connect their interests in bugs to science that they might learn about in school.

[Mistie House · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly educational and entertaining!

Jeremy and the Beetle takedown is an informative read for curious kids who are fascinated by nature—especially bugs! The illustrations were delightful and I enjoyed that the insects could talk. That made this educational story even more fun and engaging. I think little ones will love this book while learning a lot about the importance of environmental conservation.

[Doha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can't get over how cute the illustrations are! This was an adventurous and educational story with a great message on how to co-exist. I liked it overall but its transitions were a bit stiff and the addition of the beetles talking didn't feel like it fit the story to me.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.