Imagine this: You’re playing a computer game when a spider drops onto your screen. “Aah!” you scream as you fling your device across the room. “What’s the big deal?” asks your sister. “Spiders are fab. Have you ever watched a spider spin a web? Do you know that spiders can…”

You can’t believe it. Your sister loves spiders! Then you realise that even though many people are afraid of snakes, you think they’re cool.

When you think about it, people have different points of view about lots of animals. Bloodsucking leeches may scare the pants off you, but doctors around the world are big fans of these medical marvels. What about cockroaches? scurrying, dirty pests, right? Or could they actually be a solution to global hunger?

You’ll get a chance to decide when you check out these and other animals explored in this book. On the one hand you’ll find arguments trying to convince you that these animals are disgusting, mean, dangerous or smelly. On the other hand you’ll hear about how these very same animals are clever, helpful to humans and the environment and an inspiration to scientists. Though each side is telling the truth, both are trying to persuade you to agree with their point of view. Find out how you feel about animals that people love to hate – are they friend or foe?

Aimed at children aged 8+.