Bull Shark

April 1, 2017
Gr 3-5-Each featured beast fills an apex predator role in the rain forest ecosystem. Content focuses on predation in the first half, including the subject's diet and hunting methods, with photos that show some of the action of the hunt. Life cycles and habitats are also introduced. Writing is clear and direct, avoiding generalization. Readers learn, for example, that a bull shark is an apex predator in the Amazon, but not in the ocean. While apex predators are defined with examples provided, their impact on rain forest food chains is not explored. Captioned photographs highlight key physical features, while occasional close-ups and insets also support factual details effectively. Other features include a range map, a -science lab- activity, and question boxes that actually promote critical thinking, rather than repetition of facts from within the text. VERDICT Well-rounded species profiles suitable for reports.

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2017
Grades K-3 Glossy, close-up action shots steal the show in this photo-rich exploration of the Amazon's top predators. As defined in the text, an apex predator is at the top of the food chain in its habitat, and each volume utilizes short, clear sentences to examine the qualities that make each animal showcased a prime hunter. Though not necessarily an apex predator in the open ocean, the bulky bull shark thrives in shallow water, and Bull Shark investigates the senses and techniques that allow it to dominate the murky Amazon River. Each volume opens with a brief, action-packed paragraph that showcases the animals' hunting skills, and life cycles, territory range, and preferred prey are given for each. The text directs several trivia and critical-thinking questions to the reader, and an ending activity offers students a useful interactive element. Part of Bearport's Science Slam! program, this series offers a solid introduction to life sciences.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)