Built Like a Bug
How Insects Inspire Everyday Inventions
by Anjali Joshi
illustrated by Kathleen Ng
Annick Press, 2026
ISBN 9781834020310
$27.99 (hc), 128 pp, ages 8 – 11
annickpress.com
As the title suggests, this non-fiction book describes ways in which scientists, doctors, engineers, architects, and others are learning more about insects. Their discoveries are inspiring new ways to solve real-world problems (stronger building materials, new medicines, packaging that is better for the environment, etc.). Written by Anjali Joshi, a science teacher and curriculum developer, Built Like a Bug provides detailed descriptions for a variety of insects in each of the eight chapters. Labelled diagrams, charts, fact boxes, headings, and bold words help to dispense this information. The text is expertly broken up into small chunks with colourful and detailed illustrations highlighting the key points for each chunk. A glossary, reference list, and an index are included at the back of the book.
Classroom Connections: Built Like a Bug: How Insects Inspire Everyday Inventions is a delightful example of a children’s non-fiction book that has come together well. It is well-organized, informative, and entertaining at the same time. The illustrations fit the text as well as telling their own little stories. Individual chapters could be used as a basis for discussion and research and can be matched with the hands-on activities at the back of the book. Questioning, making predictions, and determining what’s important are some of the comprehension skills that could be practised while reading. A free educator’s guide is available at the Annick Press website: annickpress.com.
Review by Brenda Boreham.
This review is featured in Canadian Teacher Magazine’s Fall 2026 issue.
