“Yucky!” says a young boy about the worms his grandmother digs up in her garden. But he soon changes his mind when he discovers how interesting worms really are – and how important they are in helping the soil, plants and animals in the garden. This lighthearted study is enhanced with appealing artwork and the witty comments of the many worms who live in Grandma’s garden. Extra features include, Wormy Facts and How To Be A Wormologist that provide more information about worms and garden experiments children can try on their own.

Includes A Conversation With the Author.

Reviews

Vivan French’s fresh and interesting book offers fascinating facts about earthworms. The information is revealed in a flowing narrative style as a young boy learns about these creatures through a conversation with his grandmother. Myths are debunked. Cool, and occasionally gross, worm facts are presented. The style of the book makes it perfect for a video format. Scott Nilson narrates as Jessica Ahlberg’s soft and expressive pencil and gouache illustrations are scanned inconographically. He creates unique voices for grandmother and child, as well as for the worms and other animals whose conversation bubbles appear in the pictures. There is a fascinating close-up look at worm anatomy, cool wormy facts, and information on how to be a “wormologist”. As a bonus, there’s an interview with the author where she describes her path to authorship, her fiction and nonfiction endeavors, and the inspiration and research that went into the book. This is an exceptional and fascinating production that has a multitude of curriculum applications and merits a place in all libraries serving primary grade children. (Starred Review)
School Library Journal, December 2011

A Top Ten Video of the Year – School Library Journal
In Vivian French’s fascinating Yucky Worms, a young boy learns about these creatures from his grandmother. Featuring Scottt Nilson’s marvelous narration and Jessica Ahlberg’s expressive pencil-and-gouache illustrations, which appear to move as the camera pans in and out, this kid-friendly DVD presents an intriguing close-up of worm anatomy and cool wormy facts.
Top Ten Award Review – School Library Journal, December 2011

Worms may be “yucky” but they have important work in the garden according to this iconographic adaptation of Vivian French’s book (2010). After a little boy and his grandmother uncover worms while planting new seedlings, the grandson is encouraged to closely observe the little creatures. Grandmother explains that worms loosen the soil as they slither underground, digest rocks and leaves, and that their poop (always a popular topic with kids) helps plants grow. Narrator Scott Nilson uses a “little boy’s voice” to portray the youngster and gives the worms squeaky sounds that fit nicely with illustrator Jessica Ahlberg’s pleasing pencil and watercolor illustrations. Back matter includes such tips as treating worms with respect and washing hands after handling. Filled with interesting facts, this is a good choice for budding young scientists, gardeners, and others who enjoy learning about worms.
Booklist Online, January 2012.