The purpose of this book is two-fold; first to show the great and important part played by Insects in the economy of the world, and the immense value to mankind of those insects which we are accustomed to call Destructives; and next to note the wonderful modifications of structure which enable the insects to fulfil their mission, and the surpassing beauty with which many of them are endowed.

The author explains many interesting points connected with insect life, and the manner in which many of them directly support human life by furnishing food, or being themselves eaten.

In this book, Eight hundred and sixty insects have been described, six hundred of which have been figured, the illustrations and descriptions having all been made from the actual specimens.