Origin stories are a pretty safe bet when one is looking for action and excitement. When such books are written for a middle grade audience they often include elements of friendship difficulties, largely because such issues are common at that age so there's that "super heroes are just like regular people" schtick. All of that to say that this book is pretty well expected. Characterization is fairly shallow and the plot is nothing mind-blowing. It's logical though and the science facts are incorporated naturally into the narrative.

Bug Girl is the first book in a series by the same title by Benjamin Harper, Sarah Hines-Stephens, and Anoosha Syed. Amanda Price adores all things bug-related—from spiders to mantises. Unfortunately, most of her fellow sixth-graders do not share her invertebrate obsession. They’re grossed out by it. Especially Amanda’s ex-best friend, Emily, who thinks Amanda is creepy weird. But when mysterious invaders menace the town of Oyster Cove and take both Amanda and Emily’s mothers captive, Amanda unexpectedly develops amazing insect powers! Newly equipped with antennae and a glistening exoskeleton she uncovers a secret that changes everything. Now Amanda has to act fast or her town and her mom are doomed! There’s just one complication, she needs Emily’s help. Suddenly Amanda’s worst enemy becomes her best ally, but working together may be even harder than saving their town.

Bug Girl is a story that is not just about gaining superpowers and saving your home town. The real heart of the story is about Amanda being true to herself, and finding her way through the changes of middle school, and becoming a superheroes of course. I liked that Amanda faces bullying and social issues, but remains true to her interests and self rather than falling in line with the rest. The fact that her former best friend Emily has falling into step with the rest of the school makes that harder, but she finds her own way despite the loss of her best friend and the teasing that co,mes with having a passion about something that is not approved of by the popular crowd in middle school. Then when the super powers and conflict arise, she just continues to grow as a person, not just focusing on the powers. I really liked the coming of age tale, and the message of being true to yourself. The knowledge that we are all stronger than we know is a strong thread through the story as well. Readers that feel like they are on the outside, different, or bullied (which I think every one feels at some point) will definitely enjoy the read and connect with the characters.

Bug Girl is a charming story with a great deal of heart, and some serious action. I liked the blend of facts about insects and the fun adventure and growth that Amanda faces. I think this will be a win with elementary and middle school readers.

Amanda has long been friends with Emily, but now that they are in middle school, they don't talk. Amanda is very interested in insects, but this has been perceived as nerdy by her classmates. Unfortunately, the two are thrown together when their mothers are kidnapped before the Oyster Cove Festival, and they find out secrets about their families that brings them together.
Strengths: The pages are beautifully formatted, and I liked the style of the pictures. It was nice to see a tween girl with an interest in science, and I loved that the mothers are the ones with powers. This had a lot to recommend it.
Weaknesses: This felt offensive to my people. That would be the Nerd Community. The tone was... odd. As if cheerleaders were trying to write positive things about geeks. The meanness was off the charts, and it doesn't help to have a girl interested in science if everyone makes fun of her for it. The plot was nothing new-- I don't know why this raised my personal hackles so, but it really, really did!
What I really think: I will probably buy a copy to keep up with the insatiable demand for "books with pictures". Sigh.