He even has Cal explain how those old legends got started. What's even better, author Scott Westerfeld has found something utterly new and original to do with an old genre. Together they provide an action-packed thrill ride that's highly educational, deeply creepy, and drolly disgusting. In fact these real, scientific chapters (there's even an author's note and bibliography) are, in many ways, more horrifying than the story. In alternating chapters, he gives the reader a crash course in real-life parasitology, much like Melville did with whaling, but a lot more entertainingly. Cal explains how he became infected with a virus that causes vampirism - and becomes a vampire, or peep, hunter. And, according to his blog, he never ever wears jeans.Hilariously gruesome and wittily revolting, this book is a sheer delight for anyone who isn't completely creeped out by it. Westerfeld is originally from Texas, and now splits his time between New York City and Sidney, Australia, to avoid winter weather in either hemisphere.īefore becoming a writer, Westerfeld worked as a factory worker making lead soldiers, a substitute teacher, a textbook editor, and a software designer. He is best known for his futuristic, sci-fi series Uglies and his historical, steam punk series Leviathan. Scott Westerfeld is the author of several novels for young adults and adults. Watch the videos and then use these questions to facilitate classroom discussions about the topics presented.ĭownload the Video Discussion Guide. In this PBL, students will research endangered animals and determine an adaptation that would increase the chances of survival.ĭownload the Lesson Plan Video Discussion Guide

The various species discussed in the book all had adaptations that allowed them to survive. Secondly, they will create their own parasite and determine the impact of introducing it into an ecosystem. In this multi-faceted activity, students first research the value of parasites.

But various ecosystems greatly benefit from the much maligned parasite. Say the word “parasite” and the words creepy, evil, blood-sucker, and gross all tend to come to mind. Idea Sparks and Mini Lessons can also be used for differentiation and to foster new ideas of your own.ĭownload the Lesson Plan Positive Parasites These questions, prompts, and short activities provide quick ways to inspire interest and explore the STEAM concepts related to the book.

Peeps by Scott Westerfeld