Who Would Win?: Porcupine vs. Pangolin
Who Would Win? Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Part of Jerry Pallotta’s popular Who Would Win? series, this nonfiction picture book compares the defensive porcupine with the secretive pangolin. Through vivid photographs and humorous illustrations by Rob Bolster, readers investigate anatomy, diet, habitat, and defense mechanisms before witnessing an imagined face-off between the two animals. The book blends science facts with playful speculation, closing with a conservation note that encourages children to respect wildlife and protect endangered species.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Porcupine
Pangolin
Discussion points
Which adaptation surprised you the most and why?
How would the animals avoid fighting in real life?
What can we do to help endangered species like pangolins?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a chart of pros and cons before revealing the winner.
Visit a zoo website to observe each animal’s real behaviors.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Every creature has strengths.
Explanation: Comparisons show how quills and scales serve unique purposes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value individual differences in peers.
Example Lesson: Use evidence before deciding.
Explanation: Readers gather facts to predict the winner.
Real-World Application: Encourages evidence-based decision making in daily life.
Example Lesson: Protect endangered species.
Explanation: Book ends with a conservation reminder.
Real-World Application: Motivates small actions like learning about wildlife charities.