Horrifying rumors about the number of dust mites found in a typical pillow abound, but this volume on parasites provides the official science behind those stories: pillows that are two or more years old owe ten percent of their weight to mite feces and dead mites. Dust mites are one of several parasites profiled in this fascinating work, which also covers mosquitoes, fleas, lice, and worms, both historically and in our contemporary world. Threats to humans and animals posed by parasites are examined in depth, but information is also included on positive parasitic associations, such as hookworms’ ameliorative effect on symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease. Concise explanations, memorable anecdotes, and numerous black-and-white photographs and illustrations (some satisfyingly disgusting for those who relish that element of the topic) combine in this thorough volume which includes titles for further reading, a bibliography, and internet resources. (Ages 10–14)