Families who loved Behold the Beautiful Dung Beetle by Cheryl Bardoe often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts showing a 'gross-out' fascination with the natural world or asks difficult questions about why things are the way they are in the wild. This beautifully illustrated science narrative reframes a seemingly repulsive subject into a story of incredible industry, parenting, and environmental stewardship. It follows the life cycle of the dung beetle, showcasing how they compete for resources and nurture their young in surprising ways. Beyond the 'ick' factor, the book introduces themes of hard work and ecological interdependence. It is perfect for children aged 4 to 9, offering enough visual drama to keep preschoolers engaged while providing detailed back matter and vocabulary that will satisfy an elementary student's thirst for facts. You will likely choose this to pivot a child's bathroom humor into genuine scientific curiosity.
