Illustrating Nature: How to Paint and Draw Plants and Animals by Dorothea and Sy Barlowe is a comprehensive guide to depicting nature in a variety of media. A handy reference guide for beginning and experienced artists, it covers equipment, materials and techniques in a thorough way. I received a copy of this book as a gift, and I highly recommend it. I give it five stars.
(I actually read Insects by Sy Barlowe but could not find it on Goodreads)
Insects is such a great book for those looking to read on insects because it provides such detailed information. While reading I came across an animal called a Colorado Potato Beetle that fed solely on potatoes! Seeing that this appealed to me I am sure that the book will definitely appeal to younger readers. Beyond lessons can definitely be branched off of this book.