Chances are that just under a nearby rock, you'll spot a roly-poly pill bug. Encourage a child to take a close look, and introduce a fascinating creature. Gently pick it up and watch as it rolls into a ball and unrolls to take a walk. This cousin to lobsters and crabs sheds its crusty skin and will tickle your hand with its 14 (count 'em ) wiggly legs. Awaken a sense of wonder in a child with the Next Time You See series from NSTA Kids. The books will inspire elementary-age children to experience the enchantment of everyday phenomena, such as pill bugs, fireflies, seashells, and sunsets. Free supplementary activities are available on the NSTA website. Especially designed to be experienced with an adult--be it a parent, teacher, or friend--Next Time You See books serve as a reminder that you don't have to look far to find something remarkable in nature.

Readers can follow the "scavengers of nature" and discover how these little creatures spend their days, what they eat, where and when they sleep, and how they protect themselves.

Information about the characteristics of pill bugs with close-up photographs.

Examines the life cycle of a Nature Upclose: A Pill Bug's Life

Perfect for reading aloud, this spare, charming picture book about a day in the life of a pill bug in suburbia is also about an unusual friendship. Hank is a pill bug with a busy life—for a pill bug, that is. His daily routine involves nibbling a dead leaf, climbing up a long stick, avoiding a skateboarder, and playing pretend with his best friend, a human girl named Amelia, in her backyard. And when day is done, Hank likes nothing better than returning home to his cozy rock.

Describes the physical characteristics, life cycle, diet, habitat, and lifespan of the pillbug.

Why do pillbugs need water? What is an exoskeleton? What do pillbugs do when they are scared? Are you brave enough to find out more about these interesting creatures? How are born? How do they grow, feed, move, and have babies? Where do they live and what do they look like? What makes them special?