Get to Know Komodo Dragons

June 1, 2015

Gr 3-5-These introductions to fascinating reptiles feature brief descriptions and photographs ranging from serviceable to excellent. Short, direct sentences provide key data, including habitats, physical features, life cycles, and endangered status. The writing is not especially lively, but the facts alone are engaging enough. Full-page photos on nearly every spread offer plenty of visual intrigue. Some, such as a chameleon nabbing a fly and a midair image of a gliding gecko are particularly striking. Each title closes with an effective "Amazing but True!" page, highlighting especially incredible examples of behaviors, such as Komodo dragon vomiting up food in order to escape danger more quickly. Minor gaps include the lack of an estimated life span for the Komodo dragon and an overly vague description of Gila monster populations. VERDICT Many libraries will have books on these animals already, but these solid presentations on perennially popular subjects are worth considering.-Steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR

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