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Scientists in the Field
The Tarantula Scientist
Take an excursion into the world of working scientists studying Earth’s biggest and hairiest spiders: tarantulas!
Sam Marshall loved animals but disliked school. Then, on his first college research project, he set out to study tarantulas, and everything changed.
Now Sam’s a spider scientist extraordinaire, exploring the dense rainforest of French Guiana, knocking on the doors of tarantula burrows, and trying to get a closer look at these incredible creatures.
Yellow blood, silk of steel, and skeletons on the outside are just a few of the attributes tarantulas boast.
Join Sam as he visits the largest comparative spider laboratory in America where close to five hundred of these fascinating creatures live.
Sam Marshall loved animals but disliked school. Then, on his first college research project, he set out to study tarantulas, and everything changed.
Now Sam’s a spider scientist extraordinaire, exploring the dense rainforest of French Guiana, knocking on the doors of tarantula burrows, and trying to get a closer look at these incredible creatures.
Yellow blood, silk of steel, and skeletons on the outside are just a few of the attributes tarantulas boast.
Join Sam as he visits the largest comparative spider laboratory in America where close to five hundred of these fascinating creatures live.
80 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
65 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Sy Montgomery
71 books2,075 followersPart Indiana Jones, part Emily Dickinson, as the Boston Globe describes her, Sy Montgomery is an author, naturalist, documentary scriptwriter, and radio commentator who has traveled to some of the worlds most remote wildernesses for her work. She has worked in a pit crawling with 18,000 snakes in Manitoba, been hunted by a tiger in India, swum with pink dolphins in the Amazon, and been undressed by an orangutan in Borneo. She is the author of 13 award-winning books, including her national best-selling memoir, The Good Good Pig. Montgomery lives in Hancock, New Hampshire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
June 4, 2021
While technically speaking, Sy Montgomery’s 2004 The Tarantula Scientist could of course be considered as a picture book (and yes, I find Nic Bishop’s accompanying photographs a superb visual mirror to and for author Sy Montgomery’s printed words, albeit the pictures of in particular the tarantulas do sometimes aesthetically feel a bit uncomfortably in my face with regard to their intense focus), I would personally and instead rather consider The Tarantula Scientist more as an illustrated science and biology themed textbook, narrationally geared towards children above the age of nine or ten, but certainly also with sufficient presented information and details even for interested adult readers (who might also enjoy and be enlightened by science based texts that are sufficiently detailed and intensive but without too much potentially confusing science jargon).
And yes and in my humble opinion, the author’s, Sy Montgomery’s writing and contents and how they are presented in The Tarantula Scientist do totally, do educationally and wonderfully provide a very much detailed and thorough (yet at the same time also straight forward and never textually overwhelming) introduction to not only tarantulas (in particular) but actually to arachnids, to spiders and their kin in general, including showing that tarantulas are considered to be living fossils (with their lineage dating back more than 150 million years), that there are actually many species of spiders which yet remain undiscovered and that featured tarantula scientist Sam Marshall is in fact one of only a handful of academics, of college/university scientists whose specific area of expertise is tarantulas (and indeed, with the inclusion of a glossary, general spider statistics and a short but sufficient bibliography of both books and relevant websites being not only the icing on an already wonderful cake for me but also moving The Tarantula Scientist far far above compared to similarly interesting science based introductions I have encountered but which annoyingly did not bother to include any bibliographic materials whatsoever).
Finally, considering that in The Tarantula Scientist Sy Montgomery spends much of her presented text depicting and analysing both Sam Marshall’s field work observing the largest tarantula discovered to date (the Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula) in the jungles of Guatemala and how Professor Marshall and his students also and equally study living, captured spiders at university, in Marshall’s laboratory, I do think that teachers, parents etc. should probably be prepared for their students, for their children to ask pointed questions as to why in order to study them, spiders are not just being observed on site (in their natural surroundings) but also in the artificial confines of a college/university lab. And no, I do not think that this is in any way either sufficiently answered or even all that much considered by Sy Montgomery, and well, in my humble opinion, it really should be. For while there are of course many good and scientifically sound, legitimate reasons as to why scientists specialising in spiders (and other invertebrates) must also be studying captured specimens, there are of course questions and considerations regarding the morality of and the justification for this, and indeed, that this is in my opinion all rather being ignored by Sy Montgomery is also the main reason why even though I do find The Tarantula Scientist in many, in most ways spectacular, my star ranking will be four and not yet five stars.
And yes and in my humble opinion, the author’s, Sy Montgomery’s writing and contents and how they are presented in The Tarantula Scientist do totally, do educationally and wonderfully provide a very much detailed and thorough (yet at the same time also straight forward and never textually overwhelming) introduction to not only tarantulas (in particular) but actually to arachnids, to spiders and their kin in general, including showing that tarantulas are considered to be living fossils (with their lineage dating back more than 150 million years), that there are actually many species of spiders which yet remain undiscovered and that featured tarantula scientist Sam Marshall is in fact one of only a handful of academics, of college/university scientists whose specific area of expertise is tarantulas (and indeed, with the inclusion of a glossary, general spider statistics and a short but sufficient bibliography of both books and relevant websites being not only the icing on an already wonderful cake for me but also moving The Tarantula Scientist far far above compared to similarly interesting science based introductions I have encountered but which annoyingly did not bother to include any bibliographic materials whatsoever).
Finally, considering that in The Tarantula Scientist Sy Montgomery spends much of her presented text depicting and analysing both Sam Marshall’s field work observing the largest tarantula discovered to date (the Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula) in the jungles of Guatemala and how Professor Marshall and his students also and equally study living, captured spiders at university, in Marshall’s laboratory, I do think that teachers, parents etc. should probably be prepared for their students, for their children to ask pointed questions as to why in order to study them, spiders are not just being observed on site (in their natural surroundings) but also in the artificial confines of a college/university lab. And no, I do not think that this is in any way either sufficiently answered or even all that much considered by Sy Montgomery, and well, in my humble opinion, it really should be. For while there are of course many good and scientifically sound, legitimate reasons as to why scientists specialising in spiders (and other invertebrates) must also be studying captured specimens, there are of course questions and considerations regarding the morality of and the justification for this, and indeed, that this is in my opinion all rather being ignored by Sy Montgomery is also the main reason why even though I do find The Tarantula Scientist in many, in most ways spectacular, my star ranking will be four and not yet five stars.
June 4, 2012
Suffering from arachnaphobia? Either this book will terrify you or convert your fear into a state of profound awe for these amazing creatures. Sy Montgomery and photographer Nic Bishop teamed up once again to create this Sibert Honor and ALA Notable Book. American arachnologist, Sam, introduces the reader to the many breeds of tarantula found in French Guiana. Without fear, he taunts spiders out of the comfort of their homes. One impressive breed is the goliath birdeating spider. With its twelve inch leg span, it holds the record as the largest spider. Amazingly clear and detailed images and text acquaint you with not only the body parts and skills of tarantulas, but also with the real scientists who study them. Montgomery and Bishop succeed in taking informational material and making it a quite personal tale of wonder and determination. Their passion carries you through the text and leaves you wanting to know more, a sign of a successful informational book.
The text is quite dense so I would recommend it for grades four and above. While it is a logical addition to a unit study on spiders, it also addresses career choice. Sam saw his first spider at age thirteen and was hooked. It is a perfect example of how someone followed their passion and made it into a career.
The text is quite dense so I would recommend it for grades four and above. While it is a logical addition to a unit study on spiders, it also addresses career choice. Sam saw his first spider at age thirteen and was hooked. It is a perfect example of how someone followed their passion and made it into a career.
October 18, 2011
This is a gorgeously illustrated, very informative book about tarantulas and other spiders and insects. The detail is almost overwhelming, but the narrative is laid out in a story, so it's still entertaining. It took us a couple months to read this and we still didn't finish it, so I finished it on my own when it was finally due at the library. The photographs are so detailed and beautiful - it's like they are living right on the page. I really enjoyed reading this book and although we read through it very slowly and our girls lost interest about halfway through, I think we all learned a little more about these mysterious and fascinating creatures. Recommended for middle school-age children.
February 13, 2017
Her books are always so interesting!
July 27, 2009
I had to read this book because of the connection to my alma mater! This non-fiction book for upper elementary/young middle school readers follows the studies of a scientist studying tarantulas. I learned that French Guiana is the tarantula capital of the world! Facts are interwoven into the descriptions of Sam Marshall’s activities (like the fact that he carries potato salad containers to hold tarantulas) so the narrative is lively and engaging. The photographs make the text come alive, with close-ups of hairy spider legs and tarantulas in action. This is an encouraging book for young scientists because it documents activities of science students in addition to Sam Marshall. It’s also encouraging for people who don’t like science (Sam Marshall didn’t like science class either!). I can’t imagine many other books explore tarantulas in such depth. The additional information in the back is helpful for reports.
December 16, 2009
6th-8th grade
This illustration in this book were done by Nic Bishop, which means they are absolutely awesome. The vivid colors and the too close for comfort photo frames are on every page. The text of this book is set up in different chapters based on different aspects of spiders lives and research. This text mainly focuses on one type of tarantula, the Goliath birdeater tarantula. This book would appeal to kids because it is about spiders, something somewhat “gross” is always a hit with kids. However this book is very long and seemingly dry. It is most suited for the middle school grades for sure.
Classroom Connection:
Science- do a spider collection, each student find one spider, identify it and do research to share such as habitat, food source, mating, reproduction, etc.
Listening Skills- have a speaker come in to share spiders and talk about them to the class.
This illustration in this book were done by Nic Bishop, which means they are absolutely awesome. The vivid colors and the too close for comfort photo frames are on every page. The text of this book is set up in different chapters based on different aspects of spiders lives and research. This text mainly focuses on one type of tarantula, the Goliath birdeater tarantula. This book would appeal to kids because it is about spiders, something somewhat “gross” is always a hit with kids. However this book is very long and seemingly dry. It is most suited for the middle school grades for sure.
Classroom Connection:
Science- do a spider collection, each student find one spider, identify it and do research to share such as habitat, food source, mating, reproduction, etc.
Listening Skills- have a speaker come in to share spiders and talk about them to the class.
January 14, 2025
Continuing my read of Sibert Winners and Honors. I'm not a fan of spiders. And certainly not big spiders. But this book was pretty cool. It was also kind of awkward to read - it was physically big with landscape orientation and relatively floppy. Lots of photos. Lots of details. But readable. And by focusing on one scientist, very relatable. But still spiders. 3.5 of 5
August 9, 2016
Genre: Junior, Informational, Scientists in the Field Series
Summary:
This explicit and informative text explores the study and particulars of the tarantula. Using the work of one scientist, Sam Marshall, as the basis for investigating the study of tarantulas, the book explores the habitat, anatomy, and habits of this often misunderstood spider. The text includes relevant information about other species that inhabit the tarantula’s environment and how a scientist goes about studying these arachnids in a methodical, careful manner.
Critique:
The extensive nature of the information in this text makes it a wonderful reference for anyone desiring to learn more or collecting research for a project. The explanation of key words, including phonetic pronunciation, and the addition of reference materials provides a wealth of resources. The thorough nature of the text allows the reader to explore multiple aspects of the people that study tarantulas and have an in-depth introduction to the spiders themselves.
Positives/Negatives:
The organization of the book, particularly given the vast amount of information, is created in such a way that the reader is first intrigued by the study of tarantulas and then transitions to more detailed information about them. The photographs are vivid and provide an additional dimension to the text, bringing the reader into the forests where these hairy creatures reside. The close up photographs allow the reader to see the minute aspects of these spiders, looking at a variety of species.
The element of humor also personalizes the book, giving the reader an authentic and insightful look at the potential dangers and events that a scientist in the field might face. Including quotes from Sam Marshall invites the reader into a dialogue, giving another aspect of his life dimension. He is portrayed as an enthusiastic participant who finds satisfaction in his work.
Examples:
The humor that is sprinkled throughout the book is never more amusing than when Mr. Marshall is tumbling down the hill after an unfortunate encounter. “ ‘AAHHHH!!!’ When you hear this sound coming from a tarantula scientist, you know somethings really wrong. The next noise from Sam’s direction is equally disturbing. It’s the sound of 230 pounds of arachnologist rolling down a rainforest slope.”
The text also treats a potentially scary topic lightheartedly but with accuracy to help the reader overcome an “ick” factor. “Actually, tarantulas can be downright gentlemanly and ladylike.” In attempting to reframe the potential reaction of fear and horror the text makes the spiders relatable and less intimidating. “Today is a bad day all around for this tarantula. Her hair is a mess. Her burrow’s a wreck. And there’s no getting away from Sam.”
Curriculum Connection:
The ability to use this text as a reference for a research project is unquestionable. The extensive information and the broad range of topics it covers make it a complete source. The included links and references in the back of the book also provide further jumping off points for more specific research.
The study of science related careers can also be explored using this book. The detail that is prominent throughout includes personal anecdotes, professional requirements, larger scientific community implications, and particulars of conducting field research. Using other books in the series students can compare different careers, assessing the similarities and differences.
Summary:
This explicit and informative text explores the study and particulars of the tarantula. Using the work of one scientist, Sam Marshall, as the basis for investigating the study of tarantulas, the book explores the habitat, anatomy, and habits of this often misunderstood spider. The text includes relevant information about other species that inhabit the tarantula’s environment and how a scientist goes about studying these arachnids in a methodical, careful manner.
Critique:
The extensive nature of the information in this text makes it a wonderful reference for anyone desiring to learn more or collecting research for a project. The explanation of key words, including phonetic pronunciation, and the addition of reference materials provides a wealth of resources. The thorough nature of the text allows the reader to explore multiple aspects of the people that study tarantulas and have an in-depth introduction to the spiders themselves.
Positives/Negatives:
The organization of the book, particularly given the vast amount of information, is created in such a way that the reader is first intrigued by the study of tarantulas and then transitions to more detailed information about them. The photographs are vivid and provide an additional dimension to the text, bringing the reader into the forests where these hairy creatures reside. The close up photographs allow the reader to see the minute aspects of these spiders, looking at a variety of species.
The element of humor also personalizes the book, giving the reader an authentic and insightful look at the potential dangers and events that a scientist in the field might face. Including quotes from Sam Marshall invites the reader into a dialogue, giving another aspect of his life dimension. He is portrayed as an enthusiastic participant who finds satisfaction in his work.
Examples:
The humor that is sprinkled throughout the book is never more amusing than when Mr. Marshall is tumbling down the hill after an unfortunate encounter. “ ‘AAHHHH!!!’ When you hear this sound coming from a tarantula scientist, you know somethings really wrong. The next noise from Sam’s direction is equally disturbing. It’s the sound of 230 pounds of arachnologist rolling down a rainforest slope.”
The text also treats a potentially scary topic lightheartedly but with accuracy to help the reader overcome an “ick” factor. “Actually, tarantulas can be downright gentlemanly and ladylike.” In attempting to reframe the potential reaction of fear and horror the text makes the spiders relatable and less intimidating. “Today is a bad day all around for this tarantula. Her hair is a mess. Her burrow’s a wreck. And there’s no getting away from Sam.”
Curriculum Connection:
The ability to use this text as a reference for a research project is unquestionable. The extensive information and the broad range of topics it covers make it a complete source. The included links and references in the back of the book also provide further jumping off points for more specific research.
The study of science related careers can also be explored using this book. The detail that is prominent throughout includes personal anecdotes, professional requirements, larger scientific community implications, and particulars of conducting field research. Using other books in the series students can compare different careers, assessing the similarities and differences.
September 8, 2012
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Montgomery, S. 2004. THE TARANTULA SCIENTIST. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Co. ISBN 0618147993
PLOT SUMMARY
850….number of tarantula species recorded so far.
30….number of tarantula species in the United States.
1 in 1000….chances that any spider might bite or hurt you.
Interested in tarantulas? Even if you are not you will appreciate picking up this book. Sy Montgomery and photographer Nic Bishop work alongside Sam Marshall, spider scientist extraordinaire, as he explores the dense rainforest of French Guiana to get a closer look at these incredible creatures. Love them or hate them, you will want to read each and every page about this creepy crawler.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The information Montgomery received in this book comes from a spider scientist, or arachnologist. The photo essay provides clear and pertinent information for anyone interesting in making a tarantula a pet or for anyone wanted to kind out more about this hairy creature. Montgomery sets the book up into chapters. He does a great job chronicling Marshall’s attempt to find out more about tarantulas. “Oh! She’s reared up, and not very pleased with me.” Trained to handle these animals, we get play by play accounts of him coaxing tarantulas out of burrows and the process of catching and weighing.
The photographs taken by Bishop were close enough to make your skin crawl. We can easily count the thousands of hairs covering the spiders body. He has a vivid picture of a jumping spider with a trail of silk string behind it. Each page contains a clearly labeled color photographs of tarantulas and other rainforest suprises. He also captures Marshall sprawled out on the ground poking around inside spider burrows.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Superb color photos abound in this spectacular series addition. Readers follow the career of Sam Marshall, tarantula scientist extraordinaire, from his "Spider Lab" at Hiram College in Ohio to the rain forests of French Guiana as he hunts for, finds, and studies the creatures he loves so well.”
BOOKLIST REVIEW: “Enthusiasm for the subject and respect for both Marshall and his eight-legged subjects come through on every page of the clear, informative, and even occasionally humorous text.”
CONNECTIONS
*Spiders on the Web – Invite children to search spiders on the web and to present new and valuable information.
American Tarantual Society: www.atshq.org/index.shtml
American Archnological Society: http://americanarachnology.org/
Hiram College Web page to find out more about Sam & his students: www.hiram.edu/majors/special_jam_rese...
*Other books about Tarantula’s
Schultz, S. THE TARANTULA KEEPERS GUIDE: COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON CARE, HOUSING, AND FEEDING. ISBN 0764138855
Marshall, S. TARANTULAS AND OTHER ARCHNIDS. ISBN 0764114638.
*Other books by Sy Montgomery
Montgomery, S. SPELL OF THE TIGER: THE MAN-EATERS OF SUNDARBANS. ISBN 160358059X
Montgomery, S. KAKAPO RESCUE: SAVING THE WORLD’S STRANGEST PARROT. ISBN 0618494170
Montgomery, S. 2004. THE TARANTULA SCIENTIST. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Co. ISBN 0618147993
PLOT SUMMARY
850….number of tarantula species recorded so far.
30….number of tarantula species in the United States.
1 in 1000….chances that any spider might bite or hurt you.
Interested in tarantulas? Even if you are not you will appreciate picking up this book. Sy Montgomery and photographer Nic Bishop work alongside Sam Marshall, spider scientist extraordinaire, as he explores the dense rainforest of French Guiana to get a closer look at these incredible creatures. Love them or hate them, you will want to read each and every page about this creepy crawler.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The information Montgomery received in this book comes from a spider scientist, or arachnologist. The photo essay provides clear and pertinent information for anyone interesting in making a tarantula a pet or for anyone wanted to kind out more about this hairy creature. Montgomery sets the book up into chapters. He does a great job chronicling Marshall’s attempt to find out more about tarantulas. “Oh! She’s reared up, and not very pleased with me.” Trained to handle these animals, we get play by play accounts of him coaxing tarantulas out of burrows and the process of catching and weighing.
The photographs taken by Bishop were close enough to make your skin crawl. We can easily count the thousands of hairs covering the spiders body. He has a vivid picture of a jumping spider with a trail of silk string behind it. Each page contains a clearly labeled color photographs of tarantulas and other rainforest suprises. He also captures Marshall sprawled out on the ground poking around inside spider burrows.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Superb color photos abound in this spectacular series addition. Readers follow the career of Sam Marshall, tarantula scientist extraordinaire, from his "Spider Lab" at Hiram College in Ohio to the rain forests of French Guiana as he hunts for, finds, and studies the creatures he loves so well.”
BOOKLIST REVIEW: “Enthusiasm for the subject and respect for both Marshall and his eight-legged subjects come through on every page of the clear, informative, and even occasionally humorous text.”
CONNECTIONS
*Spiders on the Web – Invite children to search spiders on the web and to present new and valuable information.
American Tarantual Society: www.atshq.org/index.shtml
American Archnological Society: http://americanarachnology.org/
Hiram College Web page to find out more about Sam & his students: www.hiram.edu/majors/special_jam_rese...
*Other books about Tarantula’s
Schultz, S. THE TARANTULA KEEPERS GUIDE: COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON CARE, HOUSING, AND FEEDING. ISBN 0764138855
Marshall, S. TARANTULAS AND OTHER ARCHNIDS. ISBN 0764114638.
*Other books by Sy Montgomery
Montgomery, S. SPELL OF THE TIGER: THE MAN-EATERS OF SUNDARBANS. ISBN 160358059X
Montgomery, S. KAKAPO RESCUE: SAVING THE WORLD’S STRANGEST PARROT. ISBN 0618494170
November 24, 2012
Genre: Junior: Informational
Summary: Sam Marshall allows Sy Montgomery and Nic Bishop to accompany him on an expedition to French Guiana in South America where they venture into the jungle to observe and study tarantulas and spiders. They also travel to Sam’s Spider Lab at Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio. Nic Bishop performs his amazing photography magic, capturing new, up-close shots of marvelous creatures.
Literary Critique: (a.) Writing style
(b.) I admit it; informational books are not my favorite. Usually dry and boring, I quickly glance at the pictures and skim the text. I was not surprised that Nic Bishop’s pictures would be incredible – they always are. I was surprised that this book is a good read! It is funny and informational in a story-telling way. Sy Montgomery captures our attention with the use of analogies we can understand, making us think of the spider as a character, and by using suspense and humor. Her depiction of Sam the “Tarantula Scientist” caused me to think I would like to be a scientist (not spiders though)! Even her chapter titles are engaging and creative.
(c.) In the first chapter, “Queen of the Jungle,” Montgomery begins painting a picture for us of Sam Marshall on his belly trying to poke a tarantula out of its home in the ground. She shares the words from the warning signs around them about the many critters to beware. As he pokes and pokes she processes on paper the thoughts that we are thinking, “What on earth is he doing?” Suspense draws us in, “Here she comes,” he announces. She thunders out of the hole!...the sight of a Goliath birdeater tarantula rushing out of her burrow takes your breath away” (p. 8). We wonder if he is about to die, but instead she begins to show us the mind of this scientist, the awe he has for the tarantula’s beauty and mystery, the questions he asks, his inquisitiveness, and his brainstorming steps as he figures out how to lure her out (p. 8,9). On page 13 she compares tarantulas to Spiderman, an analogy we identify with. “Spiders…have abilities we’d like in our comic book heroes - like Spiderman. But if spiders have their own heroes, they are probably tarantulas.” Montgomery’s use of jokes and humor makes us feel as if we are listening to a really interesting teacher tell us about tarantulas. On page 19, she writes this pun, “All other spiders’ fangs move sideways. The “new-fangled” way allows spiders to bite faster and easier.”
Curriculum Connection: As I read this book, I saw science in a new way. Sam Marshall is all about asking questions and figuring out the answers. As he processed information, it seemed like something I could even do (but, again, not the spider part!). This series is an excellent way to present the scientific process. Encourage kids to figure out some questions they really want to know the answers to and teach them to question and think!
Summary: Sam Marshall allows Sy Montgomery and Nic Bishop to accompany him on an expedition to French Guiana in South America where they venture into the jungle to observe and study tarantulas and spiders. They also travel to Sam’s Spider Lab at Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio. Nic Bishop performs his amazing photography magic, capturing new, up-close shots of marvelous creatures.
Literary Critique: (a.) Writing style
(b.) I admit it; informational books are not my favorite. Usually dry and boring, I quickly glance at the pictures and skim the text. I was not surprised that Nic Bishop’s pictures would be incredible – they always are. I was surprised that this book is a good read! It is funny and informational in a story-telling way. Sy Montgomery captures our attention with the use of analogies we can understand, making us think of the spider as a character, and by using suspense and humor. Her depiction of Sam the “Tarantula Scientist” caused me to think I would like to be a scientist (not spiders though)! Even her chapter titles are engaging and creative.
(c.) In the first chapter, “Queen of the Jungle,” Montgomery begins painting a picture for us of Sam Marshall on his belly trying to poke a tarantula out of its home in the ground. She shares the words from the warning signs around them about the many critters to beware. As he pokes and pokes she processes on paper the thoughts that we are thinking, “What on earth is he doing?” Suspense draws us in, “Here she comes,” he announces. She thunders out of the hole!...the sight of a Goliath birdeater tarantula rushing out of her burrow takes your breath away” (p. 8). We wonder if he is about to die, but instead she begins to show us the mind of this scientist, the awe he has for the tarantula’s beauty and mystery, the questions he asks, his inquisitiveness, and his brainstorming steps as he figures out how to lure her out (p. 8,9). On page 13 she compares tarantulas to Spiderman, an analogy we identify with. “Spiders…have abilities we’d like in our comic book heroes - like Spiderman. But if spiders have their own heroes, they are probably tarantulas.” Montgomery’s use of jokes and humor makes us feel as if we are listening to a really interesting teacher tell us about tarantulas. On page 19, she writes this pun, “All other spiders’ fangs move sideways. The “new-fangled” way allows spiders to bite faster and easier.”
Curriculum Connection: As I read this book, I saw science in a new way. Sam Marshall is all about asking questions and figuring out the answers. As he processed information, it seemed like something I could even do (but, again, not the spider part!). This series is an excellent way to present the scientific process. Encourage kids to figure out some questions they really want to know the answers to and teach them to question and think!
March 16, 2019
Many children's books about spiders simply list the dry facts and try to make up for it with interesting pictures. Often, the pictures aren't even good enough to salvage the dry narrative. But The Tarantula Scientist is EXCELLENT. The text describes in vivid detail the adventures of the scientist learning about tarantulas. Not only does the story make you feel like you are really trapising alongside the scientist in the forest, but the photography is stunning. The combination of fantastic story and photographs is sure to engage young and old alike.
December 6, 2011
Genre: Informational Junior Book
This Scientist in the Field book shines some light on the understudied and underappreciated world of the Theraposa species, also known as tarantulas. Readers are taken along on a journey with Sam Marshall, an arachnologist, through the forests of French Guiana in South America to find and learn more about the biggest and hairiest tarantula, the Goliath birdeater. Along the way, the book provides information about other arachnids and focuses on the characteristics that separate tarantulas from the rest, from their body shape and make up to their life span.
a. ) A major strength of this book is the photographs.
b.) The photographs included in this book are absolutely amazing and informational. Readers are able to get an up close and personal look with the tarantulas and other creatures featured in this book without actually having to up close and personal. The zoomed in photos of the tarantulas allows readers to see the details of their bodies, something that may not be possible without a microscope. The inclusion of these pictures makes the book come alive. The pictures are so realistic that some people may get itchy by the feeling of having spiders crawling all over their bodies. They are transported from their everyday life right to the side of Sam Marshall and his hunt for Goliath birdeaters.
c.) On page 20, there is an up-close look at a Goliath birdeater. It provides zoomed in pictures of the different body parts of the tarantula. There are various pictures that allow readers to see the mammoth size of the largest and hairiest tarantula in the world.
Curriculum Connections: There are obvious science connections with this book. Not only does this book focus on tarantulas, but they focus on other arachnids. This can be turned into an activity where the students do a Venn diagram between the Goliath birdeater and other arachnids. This is can also be turned into a writing activity where students will have to write a story about what they would do if they ever ran into a Goliath birdeater.
This Scientist in the Field book shines some light on the understudied and underappreciated world of the Theraposa species, also known as tarantulas. Readers are taken along on a journey with Sam Marshall, an arachnologist, through the forests of French Guiana in South America to find and learn more about the biggest and hairiest tarantula, the Goliath birdeater. Along the way, the book provides information about other arachnids and focuses on the characteristics that separate tarantulas from the rest, from their body shape and make up to their life span.
a. ) A major strength of this book is the photographs.
b.) The photographs included in this book are absolutely amazing and informational. Readers are able to get an up close and personal look with the tarantulas and other creatures featured in this book without actually having to up close and personal. The zoomed in photos of the tarantulas allows readers to see the details of their bodies, something that may not be possible without a microscope. The inclusion of these pictures makes the book come alive. The pictures are so realistic that some people may get itchy by the feeling of having spiders crawling all over their bodies. They are transported from their everyday life right to the side of Sam Marshall and his hunt for Goliath birdeaters.
c.) On page 20, there is an up-close look at a Goliath birdeater. It provides zoomed in pictures of the different body parts of the tarantula. There are various pictures that allow readers to see the mammoth size of the largest and hairiest tarantula in the world.
Curriculum Connections: There are obvious science connections with this book. Not only does this book focus on tarantulas, but they focus on other arachnids. This can be turned into an activity where the students do a Venn diagram between the Goliath birdeater and other arachnids. This is can also be turned into a writing activity where students will have to write a story about what they would do if they ever ran into a Goliath birdeater.
November 27, 2011
1) Genre: Informational
2) Follow scientist Sam Marshall as he ventures into the rainforest of French Guiana searching for tarantulas. The book’s graphic photographs show Marshall’s progress from digging holes to locate the insects to observing them in a laboratory. Readers will not only gain knowledge about tarantulas, but also learn more about various scientific procedures.
3) Critique:
a) Although I don’t find tarantulas or any insects for that matter appealing, the photographs are the best aspect of the book.
b) The pictures were so vivid and detailed that at times it almost appeared like the tarantulas were 3-D. There were photographs of Sam Marshall actually using scientific instruments in the rainforest and close ups of actual tarantulas. It makes Marshall’s study come to life and make the reader feel like he/she is alongside Marshall.
c) A picture on pages 10-11 shows an extremely up close image of a spider. One can see the many hairs on the legs of the spider as well as it’s eight eyes. The featured tarantula is waiting for a cockroach to approach him so he can attack it. Another picture on page 50 shows Sam Marshall observing the live tarantulas he collected that are enclosed in small tubes. He is recording information as he is sitting in a lab setting.
4) Curriculum Connection: Besides the obvious connection of helping students understand more about tarantulas, a teacher could use this as inspiration to have students go on a nature walk and take pictures. For example, each student could choose something that is commonly seen in a normal environment (i.e. trees, lady bugs, bees, grass, flowers) and search for various areas (near the classroom, near their home) where these things are present and take pictures of them. This book illustrates the importance of viewing scientific research as a process and not as something that can be done with little effort.
2) Follow scientist Sam Marshall as he ventures into the rainforest of French Guiana searching for tarantulas. The book’s graphic photographs show Marshall’s progress from digging holes to locate the insects to observing them in a laboratory. Readers will not only gain knowledge about tarantulas, but also learn more about various scientific procedures.
3) Critique:
a) Although I don’t find tarantulas or any insects for that matter appealing, the photographs are the best aspect of the book.
b) The pictures were so vivid and detailed that at times it almost appeared like the tarantulas were 3-D. There were photographs of Sam Marshall actually using scientific instruments in the rainforest and close ups of actual tarantulas. It makes Marshall’s study come to life and make the reader feel like he/she is alongside Marshall.
c) A picture on pages 10-11 shows an extremely up close image of a spider. One can see the many hairs on the legs of the spider as well as it’s eight eyes. The featured tarantula is waiting for a cockroach to approach him so he can attack it. Another picture on page 50 shows Sam Marshall observing the live tarantulas he collected that are enclosed in small tubes. He is recording information as he is sitting in a lab setting.
4) Curriculum Connection: Besides the obvious connection of helping students understand more about tarantulas, a teacher could use this as inspiration to have students go on a nature walk and take pictures. For example, each student could choose something that is commonly seen in a normal environment (i.e. trees, lady bugs, bees, grass, flowers) and search for various areas (near the classroom, near their home) where these things are present and take pictures of them. This book illustrates the importance of viewing scientific research as a process and not as something that can be done with little effort.
December 8, 2014
In this Scientists in the Field, Sy and Nic take readers to South America and Ohio following Prof. Sam Marshall as he studies tarantulas. Tarantulas are so well-known, you'd think scientists would know a lot about them, but that isn't really the case. Sam travels to French Guiana to study tarantulas and try to figure out basic things about their habitats, their social patterns, how many there are in the world, and more. As Sy and Nic follow Sam around in the field and then back to his lab at Hiram College in Ohio, readers learn all sorts of things about these big arachnids that Sam has figured out and try to sort out myth from fact.
Arachnophobes will probably have a hard time with this book, simply because there are spider photographs all through the book. But if they can get past the photos, this book really might help dispel some of that fear. For example, did you know more people are seriously injured by bees, wasps, and scorpions combined than by spiders? I personally found the book fascinating and loved all the photographs. I had no idea that so little was really known about these creatures. This is a great book for kids who think they can't be scientists when they grow up because everything cool has already been found out. It seems the arachnid field has plenty of openings for intrepid, curious scientific minds. And as I've come to expect from Scientist in the Field books, the text is very readable and engaging, while at the same time breaking down the science concepts well. And of course, Nic Bishop's photographs are amazing.
Highly recommended for science classes, those interested in becoming biologists, classes studying arachnids (the anatomy of a spider is gone over very well), classes studying defense mechanisms or how to estimate the population of a species in a given area.
Arachnophobes will probably have a hard time with this book, simply because there are spider photographs all through the book. But if they can get past the photos, this book really might help dispel some of that fear. For example, did you know more people are seriously injured by bees, wasps, and scorpions combined than by spiders? I personally found the book fascinating and loved all the photographs. I had no idea that so little was really known about these creatures. This is a great book for kids who think they can't be scientists when they grow up because everything cool has already been found out. It seems the arachnid field has plenty of openings for intrepid, curious scientific minds. And as I've come to expect from Scientist in the Field books, the text is very readable and engaging, while at the same time breaking down the science concepts well. And of course, Nic Bishop's photographs are amazing.
Highly recommended for science classes, those interested in becoming biologists, classes studying arachnids (the anatomy of a spider is gone over very well), classes studying defense mechanisms or how to estimate the population of a species in a given area.
November 27, 2012
Genre: Children’s non-fiction
Title: Scientist in the Field: The Tarantula Scientist
Summary: The Tarantula Scientist is non-fiction children’s book that provides interest into the fields of biology, arachnology, and the overall scientific process. The book is filled with detailed photographs that allow children to glimpse at the unknown world of arachnology and tarantulas. Along with photographs, the book contains easy to read, and easy to comprehend text which allows for children to practice reading alone or with a family member.
a) Area for comment: accuracy
Critique:
b) The strength of this title is the accuracy of the information presented. Even though the novel is written for children, the precision of the facts is great enough to where they can be used as sources in a research paper. The simplicity of the sentence construction allows for young readers to understand the presented topics on arachnology, biology, and the scientific process.
c) Page 18 identifies primary members of the arachnid family and also identifies differences between them and insects. Also, page 45 shows the importance of not disturbing nature as one attempts to search for specimens to study.
Curriculum connection: This book may be appropriate to students in science classes. It has insightful literature on the life of arachnology
Title: Scientist in the Field: The Tarantula Scientist
Summary: The Tarantula Scientist is non-fiction children’s book that provides interest into the fields of biology, arachnology, and the overall scientific process. The book is filled with detailed photographs that allow children to glimpse at the unknown world of arachnology and tarantulas. Along with photographs, the book contains easy to read, and easy to comprehend text which allows for children to practice reading alone or with a family member.
a) Area for comment: accuracy
Critique:
b) The strength of this title is the accuracy of the information presented. Even though the novel is written for children, the precision of the facts is great enough to where they can be used as sources in a research paper. The simplicity of the sentence construction allows for young readers to understand the presented topics on arachnology, biology, and the scientific process.
c) Page 18 identifies primary members of the arachnid family and also identifies differences between them and insects. Also, page 45 shows the importance of not disturbing nature as one attempts to search for specimens to study.
Curriculum connection: This book may be appropriate to students in science classes. It has insightful literature on the life of arachnology
December 1, 2012
Genre: Informational
Summary: This book follows a tarantula scientist into the forest on a search for several species of tarantula. Along the way, the book highlights characteristics of tarantulas and their habitats.
Critique: A. Use of photographs
B. This book had many intriguing photographs of tarantulas that helped to draw the reader into the story. Every single page of this book contained a different photograph of a tarantula, showcasing their majestic and strange capabilities and characteristics. The creepy close-up pictures of the tarantulas may help to keep readers engaged in the story and lure them into reading the informational text on the page, based on wanting to find out more about what the tarantula is doing in the picture.
C. For example, there is a picture in this book of a tarantula shedding her skin and it looks very weird and interesting. Readers may look at this picture wanting to know what exactly is happening and turn to the text for answers, as I did.
Curriculum Connection: This book would be valuable for a 4th-7th grade classroom library. This book would be wonderful for research projects on tarantulas or animals in the forest in general. This book would also be wonderful for teaching students how to read informational texts. For example, the teacher could preview the interesting pictures in the book and have students generate an array of questions to look for when reading. The teacher can explain that readers must have a purpose when reading informational texts and show students how to make notes while reading or to scan text for critical information through looking at headings/sub-headings and bolded words.
Summary: This book follows a tarantula scientist into the forest on a search for several species of tarantula. Along the way, the book highlights characteristics of tarantulas and their habitats.
Critique: A. Use of photographs
B. This book had many intriguing photographs of tarantulas that helped to draw the reader into the story. Every single page of this book contained a different photograph of a tarantula, showcasing their majestic and strange capabilities and characteristics. The creepy close-up pictures of the tarantulas may help to keep readers engaged in the story and lure them into reading the informational text on the page, based on wanting to find out more about what the tarantula is doing in the picture.
C. For example, there is a picture in this book of a tarantula shedding her skin and it looks very weird and interesting. Readers may look at this picture wanting to know what exactly is happening and turn to the text for answers, as I did.
Curriculum Connection: This book would be valuable for a 4th-7th grade classroom library. This book would be wonderful for research projects on tarantulas or animals in the forest in general. This book would also be wonderful for teaching students how to read informational texts. For example, the teacher could preview the interesting pictures in the book and have students generate an array of questions to look for when reading. The teacher can explain that readers must have a purpose when reading informational texts and show students how to make notes while reading or to scan text for critical information through looking at headings/sub-headings and bolded words.
Read
February 4, 2016Design points: loose tarantulas on the pages--shudder! Graphically captivating layout if rather horrific photos. But that's the appeal to young readers. Plenty of wow facts to keep kids reading. Informal tone, excitement of the science. Describes science in an unstuffy way...storing spiders in salad and candy containers, using paint from Wal-Mart to mark spiders, poking sticks into holes and Sam talking to the spiders.
Booktalk: How many of you love tarantulas? (Show best picture from book.) Let me tell you about a man who is so passionate about tarantulas that his job is to get up close and personal with them and study how they behave, where they live, what they eat. Sam Marshall is a spider scientist who works in a spider lab full of containers holding five hundred live tarantulas. But he doesn't just work in a lab. Sam also travels to countries wehre lots of tarantulas live. In a South American rainforest Sam will poke into burrows in the ground trying to get tarantulas to come running out so he can capture them. Now this may not be your idea of a good time. But by studying tarantulas, Sam has learned a lot of interesting things about them. Such as tarantulas bites don't kill people. And that tarantulas would rather hide than attack you. And if a tarantula's leg is injured, it will pull it off and eat it! And although you might think a tarantula is a pretty scary creature, it might someday save your life. There are studies looking into whether a tarantula's venom might help heart attack victims or stop the growth of brain tumors...(finish somehow)
Booktalk: How many of you love tarantulas? (Show best picture from book.) Let me tell you about a man who is so passionate about tarantulas that his job is to get up close and personal with them and study how they behave, where they live, what they eat. Sam Marshall is a spider scientist who works in a spider lab full of containers holding five hundred live tarantulas. But he doesn't just work in a lab. Sam also travels to countries wehre lots of tarantulas live. In a South American rainforest Sam will poke into burrows in the ground trying to get tarantulas to come running out so he can capture them. Now this may not be your idea of a good time. But by studying tarantulas, Sam has learned a lot of interesting things about them. Such as tarantulas bites don't kill people. And that tarantulas would rather hide than attack you. And if a tarantula's leg is injured, it will pull it off and eat it! And although you might think a tarantula is a pretty scary creature, it might someday save your life. There are studies looking into whether a tarantula's venom might help heart attack victims or stop the growth of brain tumors...(finish somehow)
April 16, 2015
1. Informational
2. Ever wonder if the creepy crawly things with eight legs were of any value to us humans? What about how spiders make those elaborate webs, ever wonder? And what kinds of people study these strange arachnids? Well a guy named Sam Marshall, an arachnologist, studies these critters and loves it! Let his passion for these "jaguars of the leaf litter" create a passion for these tarantulas in you.
3. critique
a. The facts given throughout the text are mingled into a story in a way that creates an interesting flow.
b. The story is appropriate for students of at least nine, especially because of the story aspect. The facts given within the story are presented in an interesting light. The book is fun to read and provides a lot of facts surrounding a little known creature.
c. "they can regrow lost legs. Sometimes a tarantula will pull off its own injured leg-and then eat it (proving the old saying "You are what you eat")!"
4. Curriculum connection: I would use this book to strike up an interest in different types of arachnids. I would ask that students use this book for reports or simply for pleasure knowledge/reading. I would also use this book to talk about the scientific method. Sam follows the scientific method and students get to have a chance to see it work in real life scenarios.
2. Ever wonder if the creepy crawly things with eight legs were of any value to us humans? What about how spiders make those elaborate webs, ever wonder? And what kinds of people study these strange arachnids? Well a guy named Sam Marshall, an arachnologist, studies these critters and loves it! Let his passion for these "jaguars of the leaf litter" create a passion for these tarantulas in you.
3. critique
a. The facts given throughout the text are mingled into a story in a way that creates an interesting flow.
b. The story is appropriate for students of at least nine, especially because of the story aspect. The facts given within the story are presented in an interesting light. The book is fun to read and provides a lot of facts surrounding a little known creature.
c. "they can regrow lost legs. Sometimes a tarantula will pull off its own injured leg-and then eat it (proving the old saying "You are what you eat")!"
4. Curriculum connection: I would use this book to strike up an interest in different types of arachnids. I would ask that students use this book for reports or simply for pleasure knowledge/reading. I would also use this book to talk about the scientific method. Sam follows the scientific method and students get to have a chance to see it work in real life scenarios.
December 9, 2012
1. Genre: Informational
2. Summary: This book gives great information about tarantulas and where they live. It gives its information as it tracks Sam Marshall, a tarantula scientist, into the rainforests as he studies these interesting animals.
A. Area of Comment: Style
There are several books in this series of Scientists in the Field and each has its own style of how the information is presented in each. This book is remarkably done better than some of the others.
B. The book is laid out in a way that most readers would find appealing and want to keep reading after a few pages. It has great sidebars and terrific photographs. The style of the book is done in such a way that it would definitely keep young readers engaged.
C. One great detail about the book is that it provides keen maps of where the tarantulas live in the rainforests. These are some great graphical images that young readers like having in their informational books they want to read.
Curriculum Connection: This book can be used to teach students specifically about tarantulas but can be used to for generally teaching about arachnids and spiders. The book could also be used as an example to instruct about non-fiction books particularly informational ones.
2. Summary: This book gives great information about tarantulas and where they live. It gives its information as it tracks Sam Marshall, a tarantula scientist, into the rainforests as he studies these interesting animals.
A. Area of Comment: Style
There are several books in this series of Scientists in the Field and each has its own style of how the information is presented in each. This book is remarkably done better than some of the others.
B. The book is laid out in a way that most readers would find appealing and want to keep reading after a few pages. It has great sidebars and terrific photographs. The style of the book is done in such a way that it would definitely keep young readers engaged.
C. One great detail about the book is that it provides keen maps of where the tarantulas live in the rainforests. These are some great graphical images that young readers like having in their informational books they want to read.
Curriculum Connection: This book can be used to teach students specifically about tarantulas but can be used to for generally teaching about arachnids and spiders. The book could also be used as an example to instruct about non-fiction books particularly informational ones.
August 22, 2018
Nonfiction/ Informational-- Sibert
Summary:
In this informational text, Montgomery shows real life photographs of different types of tarantulas. Many different types of tarantulas are described from the Goliath birdeater tarantula to the Chilean rose hair. Environments that these tarantulas live in are described along with how long they live and how fast they grow.
Evaluation:
I really enjoyed this text, I feel that it pushes students out of the comfort zone of thinking that spiders are just spiders. Montgomery shows evidence of the research that he has conducted and represents facts about tarantulas that students would not have access to without reading nonfiction texts. I would highly recommend this book to students who have interests in tarantulas and want facts.
Activity:
Since Montgomery speaks of his research that he conducted in the text, I would encourage students to begin thinking of an animal that they would like to research. The students could then conduct research and write a small book telling of their animal with evidence from the research. This would incorporate more than just writing standards but could use science during the writing time allotted for the day. The students would be encouraged to use nonfiction traits such as captions and pictures.
Summary:
In this informational text, Montgomery shows real life photographs of different types of tarantulas. Many different types of tarantulas are described from the Goliath birdeater tarantula to the Chilean rose hair. Environments that these tarantulas live in are described along with how long they live and how fast they grow.
Evaluation:
I really enjoyed this text, I feel that it pushes students out of the comfort zone of thinking that spiders are just spiders. Montgomery shows evidence of the research that he has conducted and represents facts about tarantulas that students would not have access to without reading nonfiction texts. I would highly recommend this book to students who have interests in tarantulas and want facts.
Activity:
Since Montgomery speaks of his research that he conducted in the text, I would encourage students to begin thinking of an animal that they would like to research. The students could then conduct research and write a small book telling of their animal with evidence from the research. This would incorporate more than just writing standards but could use science during the writing time allotted for the day. The students would be encouraged to use nonfiction traits such as captions and pictures.
December 4, 2014
Montgomery, Sy (2004). The Tarantula Scientist Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.
Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal 2005
Nonfiction/Informational
Junior Book Project
Informational book on spiders and other insects or animals found in a rainforest; specifically the tarantula. The author’s clever writing style makes this a great book for young readers, especially those interested in science. The story is told in an almost child-like manner, as if the author is a child. The author’s tone clearly shows his enthusiasm in a field he is greatly interested in. This along with the colorful photographs will capture the attention of the reader and keep them engaged throughout the book. A must have for a classroom library in grades 3-6. Excellent book to enhance a science lesson and to build upon science vocabulary. If a student shows an interest in pursuing an education in the science field, this is a book he/she will love to read. Even those students not interested in science will love looking at the pictures and reading about animals, such as tarantulas that grow as big as your face.
Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal 2005
Nonfiction/Informational
Junior Book Project
Informational book on spiders and other insects or animals found in a rainforest; specifically the tarantula. The author’s clever writing style makes this a great book for young readers, especially those interested in science. The story is told in an almost child-like manner, as if the author is a child. The author’s tone clearly shows his enthusiasm in a field he is greatly interested in. This along with the colorful photographs will capture the attention of the reader and keep them engaged throughout the book. A must have for a classroom library in grades 3-6. Excellent book to enhance a science lesson and to build upon science vocabulary. If a student shows an interest in pursuing an education in the science field, this is a book he/she will love to read. Even those students not interested in science will love looking at the pictures and reading about animals, such as tarantulas that grow as big as your face.
October 27, 2017
Summary:
In this book, Sam Marshall explores the French Guiana rainforest to find tarantulas. As we embark on his journey with him, we are able to learn a lot about tarantulas including their appearance and how they live everyday.
Evaluation:
This book is not very engaging. I would consider this an interest book because people (like me) who do not like spiders would not care to read this book. I do, however, think the idea of taking students on a journey to investigate spiders is interesting and can be fun for some. The book had really unique and detailed images which could help to engage the students the encourage them to want to research more about tarantulas.
Teaching Point:
I would use this book in the classroom during a science lesson where I integrated language arts. I think this book could be used for students who are doing a research paper on tarantulas. Or I would recommend it to a student who is really interested in spiders and other long legged animals. For younger students, they would enjoy looking at the pictures, so for them I would probably read a chapter a day and let them construct models of their own tarantulas after the book was complete.
In this book, Sam Marshall explores the French Guiana rainforest to find tarantulas. As we embark on his journey with him, we are able to learn a lot about tarantulas including their appearance and how they live everyday.
Evaluation:
This book is not very engaging. I would consider this an interest book because people (like me) who do not like spiders would not care to read this book. I do, however, think the idea of taking students on a journey to investigate spiders is interesting and can be fun for some. The book had really unique and detailed images which could help to engage the students the encourage them to want to research more about tarantulas.
Teaching Point:
I would use this book in the classroom during a science lesson where I integrated language arts. I think this book could be used for students who are doing a research paper on tarantulas. Or I would recommend it to a student who is really interested in spiders and other long legged animals. For younger students, they would enjoy looking at the pictures, so for them I would probably read a chapter a day and let them construct models of their own tarantulas after the book was complete.
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November 13, 2018Summary:
This book is about the tarantula. This type of spider has several unique qualities that the book talks about. It talks about their usual habitat, their webs, and their diet. They provide the basic information, then they go into the fun and interesting facts that go along with it. For example, the tarantula's web fibers are stronger than a strand of steel.
Evaluation:
This book's author is a known scientist that studies a wide variety of animals. Thus, he is a trusted source to get accurate and interesting information. The book covers a wide array of information and teaches the reader about tarantulas. Pictures are also provided to explain and show different things to the reader.
Teaching Ideas:
I would use this book to talk about vertebrates and invertebrates. This book would be an example of a vertebrate and the students have to try and find 3-5 facts about the spider that they think is specific to vertebrates. I would also present another book on an invertebrate for them to do the same thing.
This book is about the tarantula. This type of spider has several unique qualities that the book talks about. It talks about their usual habitat, their webs, and their diet. They provide the basic information, then they go into the fun and interesting facts that go along with it. For example, the tarantula's web fibers are stronger than a strand of steel.
Evaluation:
This book's author is a known scientist that studies a wide variety of animals. Thus, he is a trusted source to get accurate and interesting information. The book covers a wide array of information and teaches the reader about tarantulas. Pictures are also provided to explain and show different things to the reader.
Teaching Ideas:
I would use this book to talk about vertebrates and invertebrates. This book would be an example of a vertebrate and the students have to try and find 3-5 facts about the spider that they think is specific to vertebrates. I would also present another book on an invertebrate for them to do the same thing.
December 8, 2011
Genre: Junior Book/Informational
This book follows a tarantula scientist as he does an in depth study of these animals, from how they hide, eat, and even shed skin.
Photographs and Charts
The photographs and charts in this book are very informative, and provide a look at a creature they many would not get to see in such detail. The close up pictures of the tarantulas show the hairs on the animal, its eyes, and fangs. The chart on page 20 breaks down the specific anatomy on this creature and provides pictures of each part, giving the reader a good understanding of the makeup of these animals. The photos also provide a look at all the investigation and studying that this particular scientist has undertaken to better understand this creature.
This book would be perfect for a biology lesson, and specifically a lesson on spiders. It could be used for a writing lesson, where students would have to write from the perspective of the scientist or even the spider.
This book follows a tarantula scientist as he does an in depth study of these animals, from how they hide, eat, and even shed skin.
Photographs and Charts
The photographs and charts in this book are very informative, and provide a look at a creature they many would not get to see in such detail. The close up pictures of the tarantulas show the hairs on the animal, its eyes, and fangs. The chart on page 20 breaks down the specific anatomy on this creature and provides pictures of each part, giving the reader a good understanding of the makeup of these animals. The photos also provide a look at all the investigation and studying that this particular scientist has undertaken to better understand this creature.
This book would be perfect for a biology lesson, and specifically a lesson on spiders. It could be used for a writing lesson, where students would have to write from the perspective of the scientist or even the spider.
November 16, 2013
Junior Book Log
Lit Circle 4
Source: Kimmel
Who knew tarantulas could be so beautiful? Nic Bishop puts his talent to work photographing tarantulas up close and personal for this book that is part of the Scientist in the Field series. Sy Montgomery follows the scientist, Sam Marshall, on his quest through the rainforests of French Guiana. Sam teaches Sy about the history of tarantulas, the different types of tarantulas and how they classify them, tips on how he find tarantulas homes, and the tools he uses to coax them out. Sam also explains along the way the scientific method he uses to investigate the species and what types of information he is interested in studying. Sy Montgomery weaves together factual information about tarantulas, background on Sam Marshall, and narrative about the experience of tarantula hunting into an exciting book for children. This book is best suited for children in middle school and could be used as a high interest book for reluctant readers.
Lit Circle 4
Source: Kimmel
Who knew tarantulas could be so beautiful? Nic Bishop puts his talent to work photographing tarantulas up close and personal for this book that is part of the Scientist in the Field series. Sy Montgomery follows the scientist, Sam Marshall, on his quest through the rainforests of French Guiana. Sam teaches Sy about the history of tarantulas, the different types of tarantulas and how they classify them, tips on how he find tarantulas homes, and the tools he uses to coax them out. Sam also explains along the way the scientific method he uses to investigate the species and what types of information he is interested in studying. Sy Montgomery weaves together factual information about tarantulas, background on Sam Marshall, and narrative about the experience of tarantula hunting into an exciting book for children. This book is best suited for children in middle school and could be used as a high interest book for reluctant readers.
September 21, 2017
Sam Marshall is a scientist who travels to the rain forests of French Guiana to study and explore many various types of tarantulas. He also visits the largest laboratory of spiders in America.
The author uses terms such as, "food-handling", "nozzlelike", and "bulblike". Descriptive words like these together with incredible photos are enough to convince an arachnophobic (especially a child!) to be amazed, awed, and wowed! What a super resource for students, teachers, and all others interested in tarantulas!
This would be a good book for a Science/ELA lesson. I think an observation/listening activity would be fun and appropriate for this book. The teacher might read text to students without showing pictures. Then she will ask students to draw one of the tarantulas as they pictured it in their minds. After completing their pictures, students might then be asked to do a compare and contrast against the photos in the book.
The author uses terms such as, "food-handling", "nozzlelike", and "bulblike". Descriptive words like these together with incredible photos are enough to convince an arachnophobic (especially a child!) to be amazed, awed, and wowed! What a super resource for students, teachers, and all others interested in tarantulas!
This would be a good book for a Science/ELA lesson. I think an observation/listening activity would be fun and appropriate for this book. The teacher might read text to students without showing pictures. Then she will ask students to draw one of the tarantulas as they pictured it in their minds. After completing their pictures, students might then be asked to do a compare and contrast against the photos in the book.
December 10, 2018
This scientists in the field was lovely if not for the subject but the intensity that Sam Marshall has for the tarantulas themselves. I particularly liked the way Montgomery captures Marshall's play-by-play as he is luring his subjects and/or looking at their habitats to discover even more.
Montgomery also highlights the beauty of the spider world from their silk to their jungle habitats or fields in New York state to understand that there is nothing to fear, these "beautiful monsters". As always going in depth and understanding what it takes and how problems are solved and humans learn through the animal world like how two sets of seemingly "alike" hairs are actually quite different and remove one kind and there goes the tarantula's ability to make a hissing noise to scare predators away. Super fascinating with plenty of live-action pictures and how awesome (and sometimes terrifying) being a scientist in the field can be.
Montgomery also highlights the beauty of the spider world from their silk to their jungle habitats or fields in New York state to understand that there is nothing to fear, these "beautiful monsters". As always going in depth and understanding what it takes and how problems are solved and humans learn through the animal world like how two sets of seemingly "alike" hairs are actually quite different and remove one kind and there goes the tarantula's ability to make a hissing noise to scare predators away. Super fascinating with plenty of live-action pictures and how awesome (and sometimes terrifying) being a scientist in the field can be.
March 2, 2012
I really enjoyed reading this non fiction informational book about tarantulas. Which is unusual because I don't like tarantulas and I don't enjoy reading informational text. This book takes the reader through this amazing journey with Sam Marshall activities through New Guiana. This book is like watching an episode of the Crocodile hunter. It leads you through the excitement of finding the animal but also learning about the mating styles, food and habitat of the animals The photograph by Nic Bishop are beautiful and could tell a story on their own. The youngest of reader would be able to learn through this book but, would be better for upper elementary and up. The detailed photographs of the spiders hairy legs or the shedding of the skin would make your skin crawl and may creep some readers out.
December 3, 2013
Junior Book Log
Scientists in the Field Choice
An interesting journey through nature and science labs, this book introduces readers to the lives of tarantulas. Filled with interesting facts, captivating photos (although I am terribly afraid of spiders), and a vividly detailed story of a scientist, the story has a lot to offer! I liked how the story was written in a way that could be enjoyed by both children and adults, as it is very informative, while also carefully describing scientific terms. I would enjoy using this story, or a similar one, in a science class. I found it tied well with science objectives, as it discusses terms such as class, habitat, species etc. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and learning more about one of my biggest fears.. I learned that they aren't the "evil" creatures they are always portrayed as!
Scientists in the Field Choice
An interesting journey through nature and science labs, this book introduces readers to the lives of tarantulas. Filled with interesting facts, captivating photos (although I am terribly afraid of spiders), and a vividly detailed story of a scientist, the story has a lot to offer! I liked how the story was written in a way that could be enjoyed by both children and adults, as it is very informative, while also carefully describing scientific terms. I would enjoy using this story, or a similar one, in a science class. I found it tied well with science objectives, as it discusses terms such as class, habitat, species etc. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and learning more about one of my biggest fears.. I learned that they aren't the "evil" creatures they are always portrayed as!
December 5, 2017
We got halfway through this library book before we ran out of time. It was really interesting, and we all found it fascinating (and gross, and creepy. Maybe only one of us felt that way. I shuddered every time I turned a page and beheld another huge creepy close-up of a million beady eyes or furry crawly legs).
This science book is actually in narrative form, and captured our interest! We grabbed it to supplement our Latin American studies. We may or may not get it again and finish it...perhaps we will if I can handle those detailed photos again. These are the things nightmares are made of!
At least for me. But really, jokes aside, they're just portraits of spiders.
Update:
We got this book again and finished it. !!!
...but I still don't like spiders.
*Note that there is evolutionary content.
This science book is actually in narrative form, and captured our interest! We grabbed it to supplement our Latin American studies. We may or may not get it again and finish it...perhaps we will if I can handle those detailed photos again. These are the things nightmares are made of!
At least for me. But really, jokes aside, they're just portraits of spiders.
Update:
We got this book again and finished it. !!!
...but I still don't like spiders.
*Note that there is evolutionary content.
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