Over and Under the Rainforest

May 15, 2020
A child-and-caregiver pair hike through the South American rainforest, observing animals in their natural habitats. The "symphony of sound" up in the trees prompts the child narrator to ask what lives above. Tito answers that above them is "a whole hidden world" where monkeys, insects, and birds live. As they hike along the trail, each spread shows specific animals "up in the trees" and "down in the forest," doing what they do best. Oropendolas "gurgle in low-swinging nests"; a parrot snake hunts frogs on the trail. The child and Tito climb to a hanging bridge that crosses the river; beneath them, crocodiles bask in the sun and an emerald basilisk skims the water's surface while they walk "eye to eye with capuchin monkeys" swinging through branches. The afternoon brings rain and a snack of dried fruit. The evening brings new sounds to the forest as dark settles in and the child and Tito leave the last bridge, heading home, where Abuelita and a supper of arroz con pollo await. The colorful, matte illustrations alternate views of the ground, the sky, the river, and the treetops from various vantage points; close-ups and silhouettes of animals in action channel the mystery and magic of the natural world. Part outdoor adventure, part animal nonfiction book, this exciting blend will delight children interested in fact and fiction. Extensive endnotes offer more information about the animals. The only humans pictured are Tito and the narrator, both characters of color. Draws you right in. (author's note, further reading, sources) (Picture book. 4-9)

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November 20, 2020

K-Gr 3-This engaging picture book centers on the rain forests of Central America and is narrated by a nameless child, who walks through the forest with an adult. The text provides an educational tour of the creatures that live in that ecosystem. The highlighted animals, including oropendolas, emerald basilisks, agoutis, and blue morpho butterflies, may be unfamiliar to young readers. Every page is an adventure and will have children wondering what they'll discover next. The long excursion ends at nightfall. The illustrations are rendered in shades of green, black, and mauve with a few bright blue, red, and yellow accents. The texture of mist and humidity mute some of the colors as the hikers climb steps, cross a bridge over the river, and marvel at the abundance of life. The narrator and her adult companion are drawn with tan skin and dark hair. Twenty animals that live in the forest canopy, the ground, and the river are listed in the back matter. Further reading suggestions and sources are also included. VERDICT Perfect for children who have an interest in the natural world.-Maryann H. Owen, Oak Creek P.L., WI

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