Bug-a-licious (Extreme Cuisine)
Extreme Cuisine Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Bug-a-licious explores the diverse range of insect-based dishes enjoyed by different cultures worldwide. The book showcases large, eye-catching photos, a colorful map, and captivating fact boxes on every two-page spread. It's part of Bearport's Extreme Cuisine series, which aims to delight and educate young readers about unique culinary practices.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think eating bugs helps the environment?
If you could create a dish using bugs, what would it be and why?
Which bug in the book seemed the most interesting to eat and why?
How does learning about different foods from around the world expand our understanding of cultures?
Would you be willing to try eating a bug if given the chance? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about eating insects and if they know any cultures that consider it normal.
Use expressive reading to make the descriptions of the 'extreme cuisine' come alive and capture your child’s interest.
Discuss personal food preferences and compare them to the foods presented in the book to make connections to the child's everyday life.
Encourage your child to think critically by discussing the pros and cons of eating insects, focusing on nutritional and environmental impacts.
After reading, involve your child in a creative activity like drawing their own 'bug-a-licious' dish or writing a menu featuring insect cuisine.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Openness to new experiences
Explanation: In 'Bug-a-licious (Extreme Cuisine)', children explore the intriguing world of eating insects, a common practice in many cultures around the world.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open-minded and curious about different foods and cultures, promoting a global perspective from an early age.
Example Lesson: Nutritional awareness
Explanation: The book discusses how bugs can be a good source of protein and other nutrients, providing an alternative perspective on nutrition.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn about diverse and sustainable food sources, which can lead to healthier eating habits and environmental consciousness.
Example Lesson: Environmental Impact
Explanation: Eating insects is presented as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional meat sources, highlighting the benefits of sustainable food practices.
Real-World Application: Children can become more aware of their environmental footprint and consider sustainable practices in their daily choices.
Example Lesson: Respect for other cultures
Explanation: The book shows how insect eating is perfectly normal in many parts of the world, teaching respect for cultural differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop respect and empathy towards people from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of global community.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear and hesitation
Explanation: Characters in the book initially hesitate but eventually try eating insects, demonstrating courage and open-mindedness.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and try new things, whether it's trying a new food or engaging in a new activity.