Rotten! Vultures, Beetles, Slime, and Nature’s Other Decomposers, written by Anita Sanchez, reviewed by Anneliese White

Summary: Who knew decomposing could be so interesting? In “Rotten! Vultures, Beetles, Slime, and Nature’s Other Decomposers,” the world of decay is explored in eight chapters exploring fungus, human bacteria, dung beatles, vultures, and more. Complete with a glossary, index, and bibliography, this book holds a wealth of information for children and adults alike. Illustrations by GIlbert Ford are a much needed accompaniment to the wealth of information on decomposing, which help aid the understanding of the role animals, bacteria, and fungi play in the circle of life. Sanchez does a fantastic job highlighting moral responsibility of the use of biodegradable materials, and will transform readers’ negative viewpoints of vultures, rotten meat, dead animals, and decaying smells, into a new understanding of why they play an important role in the cycle of life and Earth’s natural cleanup system.

Straight Talk for Librarians: “Rotten! Vultures, Beetles, Slime, and Nature’s Other Decomposers,” offers a great bundle of important information on decomposition, flora and fauna, and the cycle of life and death. Science teachers and librarians will rejoice at how Sanchez craftily explains various worlds of rotting, and although it often appears gross and foul smelling to humans, readers will see what really is going on underneath the surface, and why it’s so important. Many science experiments and discussions can accompany this title, and educators can utilize this book in parts by chapter to cover topics within decomposition, or as a whole. Although it’s advertised for grades 3-6, personally it seems more appropriate for grades 5-8 for it’s verbose chapters, unless an educator is assisting in its reading and understanding. Overall, a highly recommended pick that will both disgust and delight students.