In Cockroach we discover the extraordinary natural history, symbolism and cultural significance of a poorly understood and much-maligned insect. Traditionally a loathed pest, a food delicacy and a valued source for cures in folk and homeopathic medicine; nowadays, the cockroach has a much broader appeal-as evidenced by the annual World Championship Cockroach Races held in Brisbane, Australia, and the Cockroach Hall of Fame in Texas. In addition to the positive roles it has played in a number of recent works of fiction, the cockroach is also an inspiration for graphic artists, modelers and photographers.