Reptiles

April 1, 2015

Gr 2-4-This introduction to animal classification presents key facts about each group, then provides examples that demonstrate common characteristics. Brief chapters vary between general topics, such as "Fins," to specific animals, like "Seahorses." There's a brief information about many animals, which works well for younger readers. Half-page photos on every page offer strong visual support. Most photographs are directly relevant to the information in the text, and some extend it a bit with brief captions. Specificity of material is inconsistent at times. Sentences such as "Anacondas can grow to long lengths," with no measurement data or photos showing the snake's full size, have limited impact. Each book ends with a two-page feature on a particularly unusual species or type (the Arctic tern or "deep-sea fish"). A simple "Who Am I?" quiz closes each book, with thumbnail photos to lead readers back to the page with the answer. VERDICT Despite some flaws, suitable additions.

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