Each step of the life cycle for a variety of living creatures is covered in this book, guiding readers from the first stages of development for many plants and animals-including flowers, insects, fish, and mammals-through later phases and death. Also addressed are the different environments required for each step in the life cycle and the dangers these species may encounter throughout their lives. Critical thinking activities such as compare-and-contrast boxes help readers grasp general features of the life cycle and its peculiarities with each type of plant or animal.